Mapping the environmental aspect of kernel product system in complex supply chains of the West Africa cashew industry

Global supply chains (GoSCs) have become common for industries. However, relatively little research has emphasized products' complex supply chain environmental assessments. Against this background, this paper maps key environmental issues in the GoSCs of the West Africa cashew industry. The initial-oriented green design and supply chain-wide assessment of the kernel product system was conducted through an eco-design approach based on the matrix method, life cycle design strategy wheel and analytical hierarchical process. The results reveal static/technical eco-design issues that can reduce negative environmental impacts. Additionally, it highlights the strategic opportunities for redesign related to the selection of low-impact materials and gaseous emission. The main issues that arise in mapping the complex supply chains such as the need to re-examine some environmental issues such as solid and liquid residues from production and processing stages as more strategic concerns are discussed. In conclusion, the study points out that it is important not to compromise supply chain-wide assessment of environmental impacts and to understand both technical and strategic values of environmental issues in complex supply chains of products even at the initial stage of interest in green supply chain design. Thus, the eco-design approach of the study has potential to enhance environmental sustainability.