An Integrated DEMATEL-MMDE-ISM Approach for Analyzing Environmental Sustainability Indicators in MSMEs

Abstract The Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises engaged in manufacturing activities are facing various environmental challenges encompassing material and energy consumption; waste generation and disposal; water and air pollution; etc. Hence, it becomes important to adopt policies, strategies, and technologies, which may help to bring down the adverse impacts of manufacturing on the environment. In this context, the current study identified the 15 critical environmental sustainability indicators to gauge the impact of their manufacturing activities on the environment taking a case of lock manufacturing industries. To understand the interdependence among the selected indicators, the study further utilizes an integrated DEMATEL-MMDE-ISM approach to analyse the inputs of industry professionals. The results of the study highlighted that design of products, which can be disassembled, reused, or recycled and are free from hazardous materials play a significant role in enhancing the environmental sustainability of the concerned industry. The study is expected to aid decision-makers (industry practitioners and academic researchers) to identify strategic areas in order to achieve higher environmental sustainability in manufacturing organizations.