Sustainable Cold Storage Warehouse Site Selection in Vietnam: A TOPSIS Approach

Sustainable site selection for cold storage warehouses is a critical aspect of modern supply chain management and environmental responsibility. As the demand for frozen and refrigerated goods continues to rise, it is essential to carefully consider the location of cold storage facilities to minimize their environmental impact and ensure long-term sustainability. Traditional methods often overlook long-term implications, leading to adverse environmental and community effects. This research applies the Technique for Order of Preference by Similarity to Ideal Solution (TOPSIS) method to help decision-makers evaluate and rank alternatives that integrate sustainability criteria to tackle this challenge. By considering the triple bottom line (environmental, social, and economic) with 11 sub-criteria, the study identifies optimal warehouse locations that prioritize sustainability. The problem addressed is the lack of comprehensive methodologies that integrate sustainability criteria in the site selection process. Utilizing TOPSIS, decision-makers can make informed choices, considering trade-offs between sustainability factors. Implications of sustainable site selection include reduced emissions, improved resource efficiency, and responsible supply chain practices. The model is applied to a real-world company to facilitate the selection of a sustainable warehouse in Vietnam. The application of the proposed model provides practical guidance for logistics companies and stakeholders seeking eco-friendly and socially responsible warehouse locations.