Intuitionistic fuzzy based DEMATEL method for developing green practices and performances in a green supply chain

Environmental topics have gained much consideration in corporate green operations. Globalization, stakeholder pressures, and stricter environmental regulations have made organizations develop environmental practices. Thus, green supply chain management (GSCM) is now a proactive approach for organizations to enhance their environmental performance and achieve competitive advantages. This study pioneers using the decision-making trial and evaluation laboratory (DEMATEL) method with intuitionistic fuzzy sets to handle the important and causal relationships between GSCM practices and performances. DEMATEL evaluates GSCM practices to find the main practices to improve both environmental and economic performances. This study uses intuitionistic fuzzy set theory to handle the linguistic imprecision and the ambiguity of human being's judgment. A case study from the automotive industry is presented to evaluate the efficiency of the proposed method. The results reveal internal management support, green purchasing and ISO 14001 certification are the most significant GSCM practices. The practical results of this study offer useful insights for managers to become more environmentally responsible, while improving their economic and environmental performance goals. Further, a sensitivity analysis of results, managerial implications, conclusions, limitations and future research opportunities are provided. (C) 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.