Product eco-design practice in green supply chain management: a China-global examination of research

Purpose This paper comprehensively and systematically reviews and critiques the product eco-design practice in green supply chain management studies. It seeks to explore drivers, barriers and initiatives of eco-design practice with a specific emphasis on China in comparison to non-China countries. Design/methodology/approach This paper adopts a systematic literature review approach. It also uses a conceptual thematic landscape of the global eco-design practice along supply chains to critically evaluate published studies. The Web of Science (TM) Core Collection database is used as the source. Findings Results show that although common factors exist, China exhibits a higher number of barriers, leading to an overall lag in eco-design adoption. China's advantage lies in pressing market demand, actively engaged human resources and a cooperative culture. Alternatively, non-China countries demonstrate their relative superiority in eco-design tools, knowledge and innovation. Findings also indicate stakeholders simultaneously act as the three roles of eco-design practice in all countries, so do environmental regulations in China. Originality/value A thematic framework is introduced that can be used to further investigate and identify research opportunities. This study aids practitioners take stock of current eco-design management issues. It also includes pertinent recommendations on international eco-design performance improvement. It especially provides significant insights into successful eco-design implementation to green supply chains in China.

Automated summary

This paper comprehensively reviews and critiques the product eco-design practice in green supply chain management studies, highlighting the differences between China and non-China countries. The findings show that China faces more barriers but has strengths in market demand, human resources, and culture, while non-China countries excel in eco-design tools and innovation. Stakeholders and environmental regulations play crucial roles in eco-design practice in all countries.