Designing a Resilient International Reverse Logistics Network for Material Cycles: A Japanese Case Study

Abstract With material cycles becoming more international, the design of international reverse logistics (IRL) networks has also become increasingly important, especially in island nations such as Japan, where maritime transportation plays a significant role. Nevertheless, few studies relate to IRL design, with most existing research focusing on economic efficiency. However, networks’ resilience is equally or even important than typical network design. As developed countries—including Japan—are usually exporters recyclables, malfunctions can cause waste recyclables accumulate these countries, leading inefficient management practices, landfilling. are characterized by low rates and other uncertainties, they must be able absorb this volatility function despite any disruptions. This study utilizes Japanese case establish model resilient, efficient using cost-minimization constraints. Our reveals that expanding ports remote area inexpensive storage costs increases economies scale while contributing forming hubs.