Optimizing Circular Supply Chains for Live-Streaming E-Commerce: Managing Reverse Logistics and Environmental Impacts Using Life Cycle Assessment

Abstract

Background: Live-streaming e-commerce has emerged as a significant retail channel, especially in the apparel industry, characterized by high impulse-driven purchase rates and elevated product returns. Reverse logistics processes associated with these returns generate considerable environmental impacts that require systematic evaluation. Methods: This study performs a gate-to-gate Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) using SimaPro software, with a functional unit of 1 kg for one pair of returned jeans. Secondary inventory data were obtained primarily from the Ecoinvent database and supplemented with literature-based estimates for transport distances and packaging masses. Results: Key hotspots analyzed include transportation modes, packaging materials, and waste disposal pathways. Transportation mode selection was the dominant environmental hotspot, with air freight exhibiting the highest impacts across most midpoint and endpoint categories. Low-density polyethylene (LDPE) packaging and landfill disposal of textile waste were also major contributors to global warming, ozone formation, and resource depletion. Conclusions: The findings underscore the necessity of integrating Circular Supply Chain (CSC) principles into reverse logistics network design for live-streaming platforms. Optimizing transportation modes and packaging choices can effectively balance operational responsiveness with environmental sustainability. This study offers empirical evidence and practical decision-supporting insights for more sustainable return management in high-return digital retail environments.