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Location–Routing Problems with Sustainability and Resilience Concerns: A Systematic Review

Author

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  • Bruna Figueiredo

    (Department of Economics, Management, Industrial Engineering and Tourism/CIDMA, University of Aveiro, Campus Universitário de Santiago, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal)

  • Rui Borges Lopes

    (Department of Economics, Management, Industrial Engineering and Tourism/CIDMA, University of Aveiro, Campus Universitário de Santiago, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal)

  • Amaro de Sousa

    (Department of Electronics, Telecommunications and Informatics/IT, University of Aveiro, Campus Universitário de Santiago, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal)

Abstract

Background : Location and distribution decisions are key to efficient logistics network design and are often addressed in an integrated manner as Location–Routing Problems (LRPs). Today, sustainability and resilience must be considered when designing competitive networks. This systematic review examines how and at what decision level both concerns are explored in LRPs, highlighting trends and future research challenges. Methods : A search was conducted in the Scopus database on 3 January 2024. Articles not written in English or lacking a sustainability or resilience focus were excluded. The 36 most-cited articles were selected and analyzed descriptively and theoretically, considering their approaches to sustainability and resilience, as well as the decision levels at which these approaches were considered. The studies were also analyzed based on model features and solving approaches. Results : Our findings indicated that social sustainability was the most neglected. The environmental pillar was often focused on minimizing atmospheric pollution from distribution. Regarding resilience, proactive and reactive strategies were employed to minimize disruption costs and risks and maximize network reliability. Conclusions : Research on sustainable and resilient LRPs is growing, but remains fragmented. Future studies should explore the integration of social impacts, uncertainty modeling, and real-world applications. Stronger alignment with decision maker needs and more holistic evaluation frameworks are essential to support resilient and sustainable network design.

Suggested Citation

  • Bruna Figueiredo & Rui Borges Lopes & Amaro de Sousa, 2025. "Location–Routing Problems with Sustainability and Resilience Concerns: A Systematic Review," Logistics, MDPI, vol. 9(3), pages 1-26, June.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jlogis:v:9:y:2025:i:3:p:81-:d:1685758
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    References listed on IDEAS

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