Drivers for Sustainable Green Supply Chain: Case of the Indian Automobile Industry

Purpose: De-licensing in 1991 put the Indian automobile industry on a new growth trajectory attracting foreign auto giants to set up their production facilities in the country to take advantage of various benefits it offers. The growth in this sector continues to be a threat to the environmental degradation. In light of future environmental challenges posed, this study explores drivers and building strategic framework for Green Supply Chain Management (GrSCM) in automobile sector from the Indian context. Design/methodology/approach: The literature is reviewed by studying articles published in journals during 1990 – 2013, company sustainability reports. Further Expert interviews and survey is used for collection of data from employees working in Original Equipment manufacturers and parent companies. Findings: Raw material dependency, top management commitments, greenhouse gas emissions, reverse logistics, cost of operations, peer influence is the variables which will act as drivers for sustaining Green Supply Chain management. The knowledge penetration level about the subject of Green Supply Chain management among the Engineers and Managers has been found satisfactory. Originality/value: This research project apart from providing valuable insights to managers and top management will also be valuable to new entrant in this sector. The project carried is a first of a kind of project in the country that involves the exhaustive study of literature review followed by Company Sustainability reports and Primary Research for identifying Drivers of Green Supply Chain Sustainability.