THE ROLE OF GREEN REVERSE LOGISTICS IN ENHANCING SUSTAINABLE SUPPLY CHAIN PRACTICE: AN APPLIED STUDY ON EGYPT SEA PORTS
Abstract
This study investigates the relationship between Green Reverse Logistics (GRL) practices and Sustainable Supply Chain (SSC) performance in Egyptian maritime ports, addressing a notable gap in sustainability research in developing economies.
Design/Methodology/Approach: A cross-sectional survey of 297 logistics and operations professionals at Alexandria Port was conducted using validated measures for four GRL dimensions (recycling technologies, waste management, smart transportation, and inventory management) and three SSC dimensions (environmental, social, and economic practices). Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, correlations, and multiple regression.
Findings: GRL implementation is strongly associated with SSC performance (R² = 0.553, p < 0.001). All GRL dimensions significantly predict SSC outcomes, with recycling technologies exerting the greatest influence (β = 0.611, p < 0.001), followed by smart transportation (β = 0.201), waste management (β = 0.199), and inventory management (β = 0.143). Individual dimensions showed non-significant effects when tested separately, indicating synergistic rather than independent operational impacts.
Research Limitations/Implications: The study's single-port, cross-sectional design limits generalizability and causal interpretation. Future research should adopt longitudinal, multi-port approaches and examine potential mediators within GRL-SSC relationships.
Practical Implications: Findings highlight the need for integrated GRL strategies in Egyptian ports. Policymakers should prioritize recycling infrastructure while supporting phased implementation plans that reflect financial and institutional constraints.
Originality/Value: This study offers rare empirical evidence on GRL-SSC linkages in a developing maritime context, providing actionable, context-specific insights for Egyptian seaports and other emerging market logistics hubs.
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DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.21622/MARLOG.2026.15.1.115
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Copyright (c) 2026 Ayman Gamal Aly, Hafez Mohamed Farid Hamed, Ali Elkhateb
The International Maritime Transport and Logistics Journal (MARLOG)
E-ISSN: 2974-3141
P-ISSN: 2974-3133
Published by:
Academy Publishing Center (APC)
Arab Academy for Science, Technology and Maritime Transport (AASTMT)
Alexandria, Egypt