MODEL OF GREEN SUPPLY CHAIN MANAGEMENT IN MALAYSIAN FOOD AND BEVERAGE SMES: VALIDATION THROUGH DELPHI TECHNIQUE

Green Supply Chain Management (GSCM) practices have gained growing attention in emerging economies, particularly among ISO-certified organizations in countries such as Malaysia, Thailand, and China. However, environmental management and sustainability initiatives remain predominantly adopted by large enterprises, with limited implementation among small and medium enterprises (SMEs). This study aims to validate the clarity and practicality of the ‘GSCM Model for Malaysian Food and Beverage SMEs’ using the Delphi technique. Conducted over two rounds with experts experienced in GSCM, the Delphi analysis revealed an average consensus above 75%, indicating strong expert agreement. The expert panel affirmed that the model offers a clear understanding of the critical factors influencing GSCM adoption in SMEs. Additionally, the model provides practical guidance for implementing green practices, offering valuable insights for stakeholders at all managerial levels. It is particularly useful for strategic decision-making related to long-term planning, including green infrastructure, programs, and technologies. This model holds potential as a reference framework to support SMEs in aligning with sustainability goals and enhancing their environmental performance.