Green Supply Chain Management Practices in SMEs in Guayaquil, Ecuador

Objective: To analyze the impact of Green Supply Chain Management (GSCM) practices on the environmental performance of SMEs in Guayaquil, evaluating various dimensions such as green purchasing, reverse logistics, waste management, and environmental innovation. Theoretical Framework: Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) represent a fundamental pillar of Ecuador's and Latin America's economies, generating employment and contributing to sustainable development. However, the adoption of GSCM practices remains a challenge for many due to barriers such as resource scarcity, lack of knowledge, and the need to align business objectives with environmental goals. Method: This study employed a non-experimental, descriptive, and cross-sectional design. The units of analysis consisted of SMEs in Guayaquil, located in the Guayas province, Ecuador. A purposive sampling method was used, selecting 87 SMEs and applying a questionnaire that measures GSCM practices. Results and Discussion: The findings indicate that companies have made significant progress in product recovery and recycling at the end of their lifecycle. However, aspects such as ISO 14001 certification and the organization of sustainability seminars reveal an uneven implementation of ecological strategies. Regarding reverse logistics, SMEs recognize the importance of reducing environmental impact and optimizing energy consumption but still face challenges in their effective implementation. Research Implications: This study underscores the importance of strengthening environmental education in businesses and promoting sustainable innovation policies to enhance the competitiveness and sustainability of Ecuadorian SMEs in a global context. Originality/Value: The originality of the study lies in its applied focus on SMEs, a sector rarely explored in the Latin American literature on green supply chains. Additionally, it proposes strategies tailored to the Ecuadorian context, considering specific barriers and opportunities in the local market.