- Driving sustainability in Agrochemical Supply Chains: a Case Study on Supplier Selection using Sustainability Criteria

This research addresses the challenge of integrating sustainability criteria into supplier selection processes within the agrochemical sector, a critical industry for agricultural productivity and food security. Ineffective supplier selection can lead to operational disruptions that adversely affect these vital areas. The study identifies a gap in the literature regarding models that effectively incorporate environmental, social, and economic factors in supplier selection for this specific sector. To fill this gap, a multicriteria decision-making tool based on the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) was developed. The methodology involved a systematic identification of key sustainability-related criteria through expert consultations and literature review, followed by the integration of these criteria into the AHP model for comprehensive supplier evaluation. The results demonstrate that the model successfully incorporates sustainability considerations, allowing decision-makers to systematically compare suppliers across multiple dimensions. The case study further validated the model's practical applicability, illustrating that integrating sustainability can create tangible value, enhance compliance, and improve transparency in supplier selection, resulting in a more resilient supply chain. This research aims to contribute to the limited literature on supplier selection in the agrochemical sector by presenting a tool that considers the perspectives of multiple stakeholders involved in the selection process, and accounting for the uncertainty and ambiguity inherent in expert opinions. Additionally, the findings contribute to the existing literature by highlighting the necessity for a holistic approach that balances economic viability with sustainability considerations.