A bi-objective stochastic programming model for a centralized green supply chain with deteriorating products

In recent years consumers and legislation have been pushing companies to design their activities in such a way as to reduce negative environmental impacts more and more. It is therefore important to examine the optimization of total supply chain costs and environmental impacts together. However, because of the recycling of deteriorated items, the environmental impacts of deteriorating items are more significant than those of non-deteriorating ones. The objective of this paper is to develop a stochastic mathematical model and to propose a new replenishment policy in a centralized supply chain for deteriorating items. In this model, we consider inventory and transportation costs, as well as the environmental impacts under uncertain demand. Several transportation vehicles producing various greenhouse gas (GHG) levels are considered. The best transportation vehicles and inventory policy are determined by finding a balance between financial and environmental criteria. In this way, we develop a linear mathematical model and present a numerical example from the real world to demonstrate its applicability and effectiveness. We then perform a sensitivity analysis and provide some managerial insights. Finally, more promising directions are suggested for future research.