A conceptual framework for reverse logistics

As a powerful tool to solve the problems of resource shortage and environmental pollution, reverse logistics has been applied in more and more enterprises. Unfortunately, the theoretical studies on this field lag behind its engineering application. In order to solve this problem, a three-layer wheel-shaped framework, which is composed of a conceptual layer, an enabling layer and a support layer, is put forward. In the first layer, the connotation, elements, classification, basic characteristics and research contents of reverse logistics are addressed in detail. The enabling techniques are analyzed in the second layer. The basic facilities are discussed in support layer.