Measuring the sustainability of logistics in small island nations in the Pacific : A thesis presented in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the degree of Master in Logistics and Supply Chain Management at Massey University, Albany, New Zealand
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Date
2015
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Massey University
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Abstract
This thesis examines the factors which small island nations in the Pacific could consider
measuring as indicators when monitoring and reporting on the sustainability of supply
chain management practices, focused on the logistics elements.
A theoretical framework is derived from a review of appropriate literature to guide the
research, which employs a case study methodology. The case study provides a cross
sectional view of the reporting environment for early 2015, focused on the small island
developing states (SIDS) that are members of the Pacific Islands Forum. Governmental
regional organisations are the core participants for the development of the research, due
to the nature of the political and business environment in these Pacific nations. One
private company and one academic institute are also included as possible triangulation
validations.
The research finds that no effective measuring or reporting is currently being conducted
in relation to assessing the holistic sustainability levels of logistics in the region. The
lack of past adequate cross sectional or other methodology of data capture and reporting
by the nations, has consequently resulted in a lack of adequate longitudinal data sets.
Such data is needed to reliably inform and enable effective decision and policy making
on logistics activity and investment in the region.
The research finds that monitoring and reporting systems would operate effectively at
the regional government level, with data disaggregation to national and indicator level.
The Global Reporting Initiative (GRI) method of reporting fits within the political
environment, and the research finds that this, linked with the UN Sustainable Development
Goals (SDG) indicators, which are to apply from 2015 to the year 2030, could
provide a suitable monitoring and reporting framework. This would enable a consistent
longitudinal data capture.
The research’s recommended methodology will enhance the monitoring value and improve
the opportunity for effective further research for the sustainability levels of logistics
and other related societal functions in the small island nations.
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Research Subject Categories::SOCIAL SCIENCES::Business and economics