Sustainable cashmere production in Mongolia: A practical framework approach under uncertainties

Environ Sci Pollut Res Int. 2024 Dec;31(57):65741-65763. doi: 10.1007/s11356-024-35569-9. Epub 2024 Nov 27.

Abstract

Sustainable cashmere production in Mongolia needs to reduce the negative impact of production on the environment and society. However, the industry still bears responsibility for significant resource consumption and disposal and has not yet taken the necessary transformative measures to fully sustainable production transition. In this context, the production method enhancement is still insufficient although it is preparing for the transition to sustainable practices. This study aims to determine the valid attributes of sustainable production as a hierarchical structure and the interdependence relationships using a hybrid of the fuzzy Delphi method, fuzzy decision-making trial and evaluation laboratory, and analytic network process. As a result, 4 aspects and 15 criteria are validated as a sustainable production hierarchical structure. Cleaner production practices and supply chain greening are indicated as the major aspects. The practical criteria are carbon accounting, wastewater reduction, investment in recycling-related research and development, eco-design, and green manufacturing.

Keywords: Analytic network process; Cashmere; Cleaner production practices; Fuzzy Delphi method; Fuzzy decision-making trial and evaluation laboratory; Supply chain greening; Sustainable production.

MeSH terms

  • Conservation of Natural Resources*
  • Mongolia
  • Uncertainty