Investment decision issues from remanufacturing system perspective: Literature review and further research

Abstract

Recently, remanufacturing has become very popular as one of the most efficient and effective strategies for economic, social and environmental "end-of-life" product management. However, the literature is not yet exhaustive in determining holistic remanufacturing investment inputs, processes and output requirements. This paper introduces a new definition of remanufacturing system to map investment decisions and provides a conceptual framework for remanufacturing investment decision making indicating alternative pre-inputs essentials based on the level of technology and types of companies; information and physical resources as input requirements; and direct and indirect outputs. Furthermore, the framework provides a foundation to conduct cost-benefit analysis for remanufacturing investment alternatives. Lastly, the study highlights the existing challenges and barriers in remanufacturing.