Green bullwhip effect revisited: How sustainable lifestyles might influence supply chains

Abstract

In connection to the general bullwhip effect with increased order volumes upstream in the supply chain caused by the information gaps and human behavior, a green bullwhip effect was proposed to have a special impact of green logistics measures in the same direction as the original bullwhip effect. This is caused by a restriction in flexibility due to most green transportation measures and the human reactions to this change. This contribution is discussing similar effects of further sustainability concepts as, e.g., sustainable lifestyles and proposing a comprehensive approach to mitigate such a further potential bullwhip effect in supply chain management.