Design of Reverse Network for Recyclable Packaging Boxes under Uncertainties

The increasing number of disposable packaging boxes has caused a huge waste of resources and environmental problems. In order to promote the effective use of sustainable express packaging, this study builds a reverse network of recyclable express packaging boxes for e-commerce businesses with self-established logistics. Considering the uncertainties of demand, return rate, retention rate and recovery rate, a stochastic programming model is proposed to determine the location of collection points and recovery centers in the supply chain network, as well as the flow of recycling boxes, with the objective of minimizing the total cost. Furthermore, an improved priority-based tabu search algorithm is proposed to solve the model. The feasibility and operability of the model are verified via a benchmark function experiment and numerical experiment. This study provides important support for the sustainable development of the express delivery industry and helps to protect the environment.