Sustainability and Social Responsibility

Apparel and Textile Manufacturers’ Perspectives on the Impact of Buyers’ Purchasing Practices on Environmentally Friendly Operations

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Abstract

Buyer’s concern about the environmental performance of the manufacturer firms is increasing day by day. Zhu and Geng (2001) surveyed large and medium-sized state-owned enterprises and found buyers stopped purchasing from the manufacturers having environmental issues. Decisions taken during purchase order impact the operational performances of the supplier firm. For example, if buyers source more woolen fabrics, then the negative environmental impacts associated with wool processing will be more intense. The purpose of this study was to understand buyers’ purchase behaviors, problems and opportunities created by their purchasing practices, and the impact of those practices upon environmentally friendly operations of manufacturing firms. Participants from eight different countries were interviewed to gain an overall understanding regarding the impact of the purchasing practices. Cost of operation, lack of funds, buyers’ lack of sustainability knowledge and increasing interest in environmental certificates and rating platforms were found as frequently discussed factors by suppliers.

Keywords: Purchasing Practices, Sustainable Supply Chain, Environmentally Friendly Operation

How to Cite:

Sharek, A. & Dickson, M. A., (2019) “Apparel and Textile Manufacturers’ Perspectives on the Impact of Buyers’ Purchasing Practices on Environmentally Friendly Operations”, International Textile and Apparel Association Annual Conference Proceedings 76(1). doi: https://doi.org/10.31274/itaa.9572