Conceptualising the effects of green supply chain on firms’ propensity for responsible waste disposal practices in emerging markets

This study examines how green supply chain management (GSCM) in emerging markets affects firms’ waste disposal practices in Thailand’s dynamic economy. Using partial least squares structural equation modelling (PLS-SEM), we examined 320 Thai SMEs’ survey data to understand GSCM. The research reveals two key findings: A strong positive correlation exists between green supplier initiatives and green manufacturing processes, with suppliers’ sustainable efforts accounting for 27.2% of the variance in green practices (r-square = 0.272). This shows how much green supplier engagement affects manufacturing. Green distribution plays a significant role in promoting customer cooperation in the green economy, explaining 48.9% of the variance in customer engagement with sustainable practices (r-square = 0.489). Green supplier and distribution practices significantly impact waste disposal, but green manufacturing and customer cooperation fall short of anticipated impacts. Green supplier cooperation is essential for green manufacturing but does not directly lead to effective waste disposal, suggesting a disconnection and the potential for more integrated approaches. Green distribution helps meet customer demand for sustainable practices. This divergence suggests a potential oversight in GSCM implementation, emphasizing the need to integrate GSCM considerations into emerging market firms’ strategic frameworks and strategic policy interventions to improve waste disposal practices through GSCM adoption.