The Development of a Cleaner Production Model and Applied Management Solutions for the Pharmaceutical Industry

Abstract

The present study aimed to develop a cleaner production model and applied
management solutions for the pharmaceutical industry. The research methodology was
basic-applied in terms of purpose, and descriptive-exploratory in terms of
implementation method. The statistical population included the companies operating
in the pharmaceutical industry. Experts and managers working in these companies were
selected as the statistical analysis unit. Using Cochran’s formula for a finite population,
341 individuals, including 9 experts, were selected as the sample. Interpretive structural
modeling technique was used to design the interpretive structural model of cleaner
production, and rough set theory was used to prioritize cleaner production indicators.
Finally, SWOT matrix was used to provide operational and strategic solutions for
cleaner production. The results showed that 15 variables of “cleaner policies and
regulations”, “cleaner strategic stimulus”, “cleaner leadership and competency”,
“cleaner processes”, “ cleaner suppliers”, “cleaner employee”, “cleaner partnership”,
“cleaner culture”, “cleaner design”, “cleaner environmental management”, “cleaner
resource management”, “cleaner innovation”, “cleaner purchasing management”,
“cleaner technology”, “risk perception and cleaner protection indicators” are
respectively the most important factors in achieving cleaner production. In the present
study, a cleaner production assessment model was proposed for the pharmaceutical
industry by identifying the key performance indicators involved in cleaner production
using reliable techniques.