# RESILIENT SUPPLY CHAIN ENGINEERING IN THE ERA OF DISRUPTION: AN APPRAISAL

Charles Onyeka Nwamekwe, O C Ezeanyim, Nkemakonam Chidiebube

Igbokwe

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Charles Onyeka Nwamekwe, O C Ezeanyim, Nkemakonam Chidiebube Igbokwe. RESILIENT SUPPLY CHAIN ENGINEERING IN THE ERA OF DISRUPTION: AN APPRAISAL. INTERNA-TIONAL JOURNAL OF INNOVATIVE ENGINEERING, TECHNOLOGY AND SCIENCE, 2025, 09 (01), pp.11-23. hal-05061524

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# RESILIENT SUPPLY CHAIN ENGINEERING IN THE ERA OF DISRUPTION: AN APPRAISAL

Nwamekwe C. O.¹, Ezeanyim O. C.² and Igbokwe N. C.³

1,2,3Department of Industrial/Production Engineering,
Nnamdi Azikiwe University, P.M.B. 5025 Awka,
Anambra State - Nigeria.

Emails: ¹co.nwamekwe@unizik.edu.ng, ²oi.ezeanyim@unizik.edu.ng, ³nc.igbokwe@unizik.edu.ng

## ABSTRACT

In the era of unprecedented disruptions, resilient supply chain engineering has emerged as a critical domain for ensuring sustainability, adaptability, and operational continuity. This research explores the integration of resilience strategies and sustainability practices within supply chain management, emphasizing their importance in mitigating the impacts of global crises such as the COVID-19 pandemic and climate change. Key themes include climate-adaptive supply chains, ethical practices, and digital transformation through technologies such as artificial intelligence, big data, and blockchain. The paper highlights the role of renewable energy, advanced analytics, and innovative frameworks in building supply chains capable of withstanding volatility while aligning with sustainability goals. By analysing case studies of industry leaders like Amazon and Unilever, it underscores the effectiveness of real-time monitoring systems, risk mitigation strategies, and ethical sourcing in enhancing resilience. Challenges such as technology adoption barriers for SMEs and the integration of legacy systems are addressed, offering future research directions that include AI-driven resilience models and sustainable blockchain practices. This study contributes to the evolving field of resilient supply chain engineering by proposing actionable insights for fostering stability, adaptability, and sustainability in a rapidly changing global landscape.

**Keywords:** Supply Chain Resilience, Disruption Management, Risk Mitigation Strategies, Agile Supply Chains, Adaptability and Flexibility.

## 1.0 INTRODUCTION

### 1.1 Background

Recent global disruptions, including the COVID-19 pandemic, geopolitical tensions, and climate change, have highlighted the vulnerabilities of supply chain systems. The pandemic, in particular, has underscored the necessity for resilient supply chains that can anticipate, adapt, and recover from such shocks effectively (Nwamekwe et al., 2019; Remko, 2020; Golan et al., 2020). Research indicates that both proactive and reactive resilience-building activities significantly enhance supply chain performance during crises, demonstrating the critical role of agility and flexibility in supply chain management (Hsieh, 2023; Özdemir et al., 2022, Nwamekwe and Igbokwe, 2024). Furthermore, integrating sustainability into supply chain strategies has emerged as a vital component of resilience, as organizations strive to mitigate risks associated with environmental uncertainties (Negri et al., 2021). The need for a holistic approach that encompasses technological advancements and stakeholder engagement is essential for developing robust supply chains capable of withstanding future disruptions (Odulaja, 2023).

This review aims to explore methodologies for designing and managing resilient supply chains, focusing on risk mitigation strategies, digital supply chain innovations, and emerging technologies such as blockchain and predictive analytics. The paper also examines the integration of sustainability into resilience practices, highlighting the importance of climate adaptability and ethical considerations in supply chain engineering. This paper is organized as shown in figure 1.
<figure><img src="image_2.png" /><figcaption>Figure 1: The Structure of the Research</figcaption></figure>

## 2.0 CHALLENGES FACING SUPPLY CHAINS IN THE MODERN ERA

### 2.1 Global Disruptions

Global disruptions have significantly destabilized supply chains, revealing critical vulnerabilities. The COVID-19 pandemic exemplified this, leading to abrupt production shutdowns and border closures that severely impacted both supply and demand dynamics (Chowdhury et al., 2021; Özdemir et al., 2022). Geopolitical tensions, such as trade wars and sanctions, further complicate these challenges by disrupting the flow of goods and materials, thereby exacerbating supply chain instability (Golan et al., 2020). Additionally, climate change has intensified these issues through extreme weather events that damage infrastructure, delay shipments, and increase operational costs, necessitating a re-evaluation of supply chain strategies (Kumar et al., 2018).

To enhance resilience, organizations are urged to adopt proactive and reactive strategies that bolster supply chain agility and flexibility (Roscoe et al., 2022; Ashiwaju, 2024). This includes leveraging technology and analytics to improve visibility and responsiveness within supply chains (Ali et al., 2024). Ultimately, a comprehensive approach that integrates risk management, sustainability, and innovation is essential for navigating the complexities of modern supply chains in the face of ongoing disruptions (Atadoga, 2024).

### 2.2 Key Risk Factors

In the context of resilient supply chain engineering, understanding key risk factors is crucial for developing effective mitigation strategies. Various risks, including environmental, operational, and financial uncertainties, significantly impact supply chain performance. Hsieh emphasizes that the intersection of these risks with supply chain agility highlights the essential role of resilience in enhancing performance (Hsieh, 2023). Furthermore, Um and Han discuss (2020) how traditional risk management strategies, such as fault tree analysis, are vital for mitigating disruptions in today's turbulent global environment.

The ripple effect of disruptions, as noted by Dolgui and Ivanov (2021) illustrates how initial disturbances can propagate through supply chains, necessitating robust management strategies to contain their impact. Additionally, Yamin's (2021) research indicates that network complexity can hinder resilience, underscoring the importance of simplifying supply chain structures to enhance adaptability. Collectively, these studies underscore the necessity of a comprehensive approach to supply chain risk management that integrates various strategies to address both internal and external risk factors effectively (Kumar et al., 2018; Gurtu and Johny, 2021). Some specific risks contributing to supply chain vulnerabilities include:

**(a) Supply Chain Bottlenecks:** Supply chain bottlenecks, particularly at critical junctures such as ports and manufacturing hubs, have emerged as significant challenges in the era of global disruptions. The COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated these bottlenecks, leading to substantial delays in the movement of goods and materials (Chowdhury et al., 2021). Research indicates that limited capacity at these critical points not only hampers operational efficiency but also increases costs and affects overall supply chain resilience (Golan et al., 2020).

For instance, Golan et al. (2020), highlight that the pandemic has revealed vulnerabilities in supply chain networks, particularly in transportation and logistics, where congestion at ports has become a prevalent issue. Additionally, Özdemir et al. (2022) emphasize that both proactive and reactive strategies are essential to
enhance supply chain velocity and mitigate the impact of such bottlenecks. The interplay between these
bottlenecks and broader supply chain dynamics necessitates a comprehensive approach to risk management,
focusing on improving capacity and flexibility at critical nodes.

(b) **Labor Shortages:** Labor shortages have emerged as a critical risk factor in supply chain resilience, particularly due to workforce disruptions caused by health crises, strikes, and migration policies. The COVID-19 pandemic has notably intensified these labour shortages, leading to significant operational challenges across various sectors (Golan *et al.*, 2020). Golan *et al.* (2020) emphasize that advanced resilience analytics are essential for maintaining operational continuity during such disruptions, highlighting the importance of strategic workforce management in recovery efforts.

Moreover, Negri *et al.* (2021) discuss how increased demand volatility and shortened product life cycles contribute to supply chain complexity, which is further exacerbated by labour shortages. This complexity necessitates a focus on supply chain agility and resilience, as organizations must adapt quickly to changing workforce dynamics to sustain performance (Hsieh, 2023). The interplay between labour availability and supply chain resilience underscores the need for proactive strategies, including workforce diversification and enhanced training programs, to mitigate the impacts of labour disruptions (Nwamekwe *et al.*, 2019; Remko, 2020).

(c) **Transportation Delays:** Transportation delays in supply chains are increasingly exacerbated by inadequate infrastructure and logistical inefficiencies, often compounded by natural disasters and political unrest. These delays can significantly disrupt the flow of goods, leading to increased costs and diminished service levels (Singh *et al.*, 2020; Dolgui and Ivanov, 2021). Singh et al. (2020) emphasizes that collaboration among supply chain partners is essential for effective data sharing and distribution, which can help mitigate the impacts of such delays.

Moreover, Dolgui and Ivanov (2021) highlights that the COVID-19 pandemic has exposed vulnerabilities in global supply chains, particularly in transportation logistics, where disruptions can cascade through the entire supply chain network. The interplay of these factors necessitates a robust approach to supply chain management that includes enhancing infrastructure resilience and optimizing logistical processes to better withstand external shocks. By adopting advanced analytics and simulation techniques, organizations can identify potential bottlenecks and develop strategies to improve transportation efficiency, ultimately fostering a more resilient supply chain (Singh *et al.*, 2020).

**3.0 APPROACHES TO ENHANCING SUPPLY CHAIN RESILIENCE**

**3.1 Risk Mitigation Strategies**

Risk mitigation strategies in supply chain management are essential for enhancing resilience against disruptions caused by various factors, including health crises, natural disasters, and geopolitical tensions. These strategies encompass a range of approaches designed to identify, assess, and manage risks effectively. Ye *et al*. (2022) highlight the importance of digital supply chain management as a means to enhance visibility and agility, which are critical for mitigating risks during crises such as the COVID-19 pandemic.

Moreover, Qrunfleh *et al*. (2022) emphasize the need for developing sustainable innovation capabilities that can adapt to changing circumstances, thereby improving overall supply chain performance. Fan and Stevenson (2018) provide a comprehensive framework for supply chain risk management (SCRM), which includes risk identification, assessment, treatment, and monitoring, underscoring the necessity of a systematic approach to risk mitigation.

Additionally, Um and Han (2020) assert that a dynamic capability for risk mitigation is vital in uncertain environments, advocating for a tailored approach that considers the unique risks faced by different supply
chains. By integrating these strategies, organizations can enhance their resilience and ensure continuity in operations despite unforeseen disruptions (Baryannis et al., 2018).

**(a) Supplier and Route Diversification:** Supplier and route diversification is a critical strategy for enhancing supply chain resilience by reducing dependency on single suppliers or geographic regions. This approach involves establishing multiple sourcing options and transportation routes to mitigate risks associated with supply chain disruptions. Ye et al. (2022), emphasize that diversifying suppliers not only enhances supply chain visibility but also improves overall performance by enabling organizations to respond more effectively to disruptions.

Furthermore, Qrunfleh et al. (2022) highlight the necessity of developing sustainable innovation capabilities as part of a broader risk mitigation strategy during crises like the COVID-19 pandemic. By diversifying suppliers and routes, companies can better adapt to unforeseen challenges, such as natural disasters or geopolitical tensions, which may impact specific regions or suppliers (Fan and Stevenson, 2018). Baryannis et al. (2018) support this notion, stating that a comprehensive risk management framework should include supplier diversification as a key component to enhance supply chain robustness. Ultimately, implementing supplier and route diversification strategies can significantly contribute to a more resilient supply chain capable of withstanding various disruptions.

**(b) Inventory Optimization:** Inventory optimization is a vital strategy in resilient supply chain engineering, focusing on maintaining adequate safety stock levels to buffer against unexpected disruptions while minimizing holding costs. This approach enables organizations to balance the costs associated with inventory holding against the risks of stockouts during unforeseen events, such as natural disasters or supply chain interruptions (Kumar et al., 2018).

Kumar et al. (2018) emphasize that effective inventory management is crucial for mitigating supply chain risks, as it allows firms to respond swiftly to fluctuations in demand and supply disruptions. Furthermore, Qrunfleh et al. (2022) highlight the importance of developing sustainable innovation capabilities, which include optimizing inventory levels to enhance responsiveness and adaptability in the face of crises like the COVID-19 pandemic. Additionally, Baryannis et al. (2018) discuss how inventory optimization, as part of a broader supply chain risk management strategy, can improve operational efficiency and resilience. By employing advanced analytics and forecasting techniques, organizations can better predict demand variability and adjust their inventory strategies accordingly, thus ensuring continuity in operations despite potential disruptions (Roscoe et al., 2022; Fan and Stevenson, 2018).

## 3.2 Digital Supply Chains

In the context of resilient supply chain engineering amidst disruptions, the integration of digital technologies such as the Internet of Things (IoT), Artificial Intelligence (AI), and Cloud Computing plays a pivotal role. IoT devices facilitate real-time data acquisition regarding inventory levels and transportation logistics, which is essential for maintaining operational efficiency during disruptions (Singh et al., 2020; Khan et al., 2022). AI algorithms analyse this data to predict potential disruptions and recommend corrective actions, thereby enhancing decision-making capabilities within the supply chain. Furthermore, Cloud Computing enables seamless communication and data sharing across various stakeholders, fostering collaboration and improving supply chain visibility (Khan et al., 2022). This digital transformation not only enhances operational efficiency but also contributes to the overall resilience of supply chains by enabling rapid responses to unforeseen challenges.

**Benefits of Real-Time Data:** The integration of real-time data into supply chain management significantly enhances visibility and response times, which are critical for resilience during disruptions. Real-time data allows organizations to continuously monitor inventory levels and transportation conditions, enabling them to react swiftly to changing circumstances (Yuan et al., 2023; Zhao et al., 2023). This capability is particularly
vital in mitigating risks associated with supply chain disruptions, as it facilitates informed decision-making and proactive adjustments to operations (Ye *et al.*, 2022). Furthermore, digital transformation initiatives, including the adoption of IoT and AI technologies, amplify these benefits by providing predictive analytics that can foresee potential disruptions and recommend corrective actions. Consequently, organizations that leverage real-time data are better positioned to maintain operational continuity and enhance overall supply chain performance, thereby achieving a competitive advantage in an increasingly volatile environment (Zhou *et al.*, 2023).

## 4.0 EMERGING TECHNOLOGIES IN RESILIENT SUPPLY CHAIN ENGINEERING

### 4.1 Blockchain Technology

The application of blockchain technology in supply chain management significantly enhances transparency and traceability by securely recording every transaction in an immutable ledger. This capability is crucial for verifying the origin of goods and ensuring compliance with regulatory standards, thereby fostering trust among stakeholders (Saberi *et al.*, 2018). Blockchain's decentralized nature allows for real-time access to transaction data, which not only improves visibility across the supply chain but also facilitates quicker responses to discrepancies or compliance issues (Yuan *et al.*, 2023). Furthermore, the integration of blockchain with other digital technologies, such as IoT and AI, can further augment supply chain resilience by enabling automated verification processes and enhancing data accuracy (Zhao *et al.*, 2023). As organizations increasingly adopt blockchain, they can expect improved operational efficiency and a stronger ability to manage disruptions, ultimately leading to a more robust supply chain ecosystem (Zhou *et al.*, 2023).

Case studies of companies like Walmart and IBM illustrate the implementation of blockchain technology to enhance food safety and traceability within their supply chains. Walmart has utilized blockchain to track the origin of food products, allowing for rapid identification of sources in the event of contamination, thereby improving food safety and consumer trust (Saberi *et al.*, 2018). Similarly, IBM's Food Trust blockchain network enables various stakeholders to share data securely, ensuring transparency and compliance with regulatory standards. This collaborative approach not only enhances traceability but also fosters accountability among supply chain partners, ultimately leading to more resilient supply chains capable of withstanding disruptions. The integration of blockchain with other digital technologies further amplifies these benefits, providing a robust framework for managing supply chain complexities in an era marked by frequent disruptions.

### 4.2 Predictive Analytics

Predictive analytics plays a crucial role in enhancing supply chain resilience by forecasting potential disruptions through the analysis of historical data, current trends, and external factors such as weather and political events. Advanced analytics tools enable organizations to identify vulnerabilities and anticipate disruptions, allowing for proactive measures to mitigate risks (Golan *et al.*, 2020; Nikookar and Yanadori, 2021). For instance, Golan et al. (2020) emphasize the necessity of resilience analytics in maintaining operational continuity during global disruptions, highlighting that timely and informed decision-making can significantly impact supply chain performance. Furthermore, Nikookar and Yanadori (2021) discuss how managerial decisions informed by predictive analytics can enhance supply chain resilience, particularly in the face of unforeseen events. By leveraging predictive analytics, companies can improve their responsiveness to disruptions and enhance their overall operational efficiency, thereby fostering a more resilient supply chain capable of adapting to dynamic environments (Hsieh, 2023).

Proactive decision-making and improved scenario planning are essential components of resilient supply chain engineering, particularly in mitigating risks before they materialize. By leveraging advanced analytics and predictive modelling, organizations can forecast potential disruptions and develop strategies to address them effectively (Gunessee and Subramanian, 2020). Gunessee and Subramanian (2020) emphasize the importance
of understanding ambiguity in supply chains, particularly in the context of crises such as the COVID-19 pandemic, where proactive measures can significantly enhance resilience. Furthermore, Baryannis et al. (2018) highlight that supply chain risk management (SCRM) strategies rely on rapid and adaptive decision-making, which is facilitated by analysing multidimensional data sources. This proactive approach not only helps in identifying vulnerabilities but also enables organizations to implement contingency plans, thereby reducing the impact of unforeseen events on supply chain operations (Baryannis et al., 2018). Ultimately, the integration of predictive analytics into supply chain management fosters a culture of preparedness, enhancing overall resilience in the face of disruptions. Figure 2 depicts the research ideology connecting the conceptual themes of the research.

<figure><img src="image_3.png" /><figcaption>Figure 2: Conceptual Diagram of the Resilient Supply Chain Engineering in the Era of Disruption (Authors’ Design)</figcaption></figure>

## 5.0 INTEGRATING SUSTAINABILITY WITH RESILIENCE

### 5.1 Climate-Adaptive Supply Chains

In the context of climate-adaptive supply chains, strategies focused on building infrastructure resilient to extreme weather and adopting renewable energy sources are essential for enhancing overall supply chain resilience. The integration of renewable energy not only reduces dependency on fossil fuels but also mitigates the risks associated with energy supply disruptions caused by climate change (Sari et al., 2023). Dubey et al. (2019) emphasize that resilient supply chains must incorporate flexible infrastructure that can withstand extreme weather events, thereby ensuring continuity of operations during crises. Furthermore, Sari et al. (2023), highlight the role of big data analytics in optimizing supply chain performance, which can be instrumental in assessing climate risks and developing adaptive strategies. By leveraging advanced analytics, organizations can forecast potential disruptions related to climate change and implement proactive measures, such as infrastructure upgrades and energy transitions, to enhance resilience. Ultimately, these strategies not only contribute to sustainability but also strengthen the supply chain's ability to adapt to an increasingly volatile climate.

The importance of reducing the carbon footprint in climate-adaptive supply chains extends beyond environmental benefits; it also addresses climate-related risks while meeting the growing consumer demand for sustainable practices. As consumers increasingly prioritize sustainability, companies that adopt eco-friendly practices can enhance their market competitiveness and brand loyalty (Negri et al., 2021). Negri et al. (2021) argue that integrating sustainability into supply chain strategies not only mitigates risks associated with climate change but also aligns with consumer expectations for responsible business practices.
Furthermore, Basuki (2024) emphasizes that sustainability initiatives can significantly enhance supply chain resilience and performance, thereby creating a dual benefit of environmental responsibility and operational efficiency. By investing in renewable energy sources and sustainable materials, organizations can effectively reduce their carbon emissions, which is crucial for adapting to the impacts of climate change. Ultimately, these strategies contribute to a more resilient supply chain capable of navigating disruptions while fulfilling the increasing demand for sustainable practices from consumers.

## 5.2 Social Responsibility in Resilient Supply Chains

Incorporating ethical practices into resilient supply chains is vital for fostering trust and stability among stakeholders. Ensuring fair labour conditions, responsible sourcing, and community partnerships not only enhances the ethical standing of organizations but also contributes to their resilience in the face of disruptions. According to Feng *et al.* (2018) ethical supply chain practices can lead to improved operational and environmental performance, which in turn positively impacts financial outcomes. This alignment of ethical practices with operational efficiency is crucial for building long-term relationships with suppliers and communities, thereby enhancing supply chain stability (Gurtu and Johny, 2021). Furthermore, Gurtu and Johny (2021) highlight that ethical sourcing and transparency are increasingly recognized as essential components of supply chain risk management, enabling organizations to navigate challenges effectively. By prioritizing ethical practices, companies can cultivate a reputation for social responsibility, which is increasingly demanded by consumers and can serve as a competitive advantage in turbulent markets. Ultimately, the integration of ethical practices into supply chain management not only addresses social responsibilities but also fortifies the supply chain against potential disruptions, creating a more resilient operational framework.

## 6.0 CASE STUDIES AND INDUSTRY PRACTICES

### 6.1 Examples of Resilient Supply Chain Models

Real-world examples of resilient supply chain models can be observed in companies like Amazon and Unilever, which have implemented advanced risk mitigation strategies to maintain continuity during disruptions. Amazon employs a multi-tier supplier network that allows for flexibility and redundancy, enabling the company to quickly adapt to supply chain interruptions (Fan and Stevenson, 2018). This strategy not only diversifies risk but also enhances the company's ability to respond to unexpected challenges, such as those posed by the COVID-19 pandemic (Ye *et al.*, 2022). Similarly, Unilever has adopted real-time monitoring systems that provide visibility across its supply chain, facilitating proactive decision-making and rapid response to potential disruptions (Qrunfleh *et al.*, 2022). These systems leverage data analytics to identify risks and optimize operations, thereby reinforcing supply chain resilience (Baryannis *et al.*, 2018). The integration of such advanced technologies and strategies underscores the importance of adaptability and responsiveness in modern supply chains, allowing organizations to navigate uncertainties effectively and sustain operational performance.

### 6.2 Lessons Learned from Recent Disruptions

The COVID-19 pandemic has underscored the critical importance of digital transformation and agile practices in enhancing supply chain resilience. Companies that invested in these areas were notably better equipped to navigate the unprecedented challenges posed by the pandemic. Zouari *et al.* (2020) highlight that digitalizing the supply chain significantly contributes to its resilience by enabling real-time data access and improved decision-making capabilities. This capability allows organizations to respond swiftly to disruptions, thereby maintaining operational continuity.

Furthermore, Agrawal *et al.* (2019) emphasize that a digital supply chain, characterized by its customer-centric model and real-time data utilization, is essential for optimizing performance and mitigating risks. The integration of technologies such as big data, IoT, and cloud computing enhances adaptability, enabling firms
to reconfigure their supply chains in response to changing conditions. Additionally, Yuan *et al.* (2023) provide empirical evidence that digital transformation positively impacts supply chain resilience, reinforcing the notion that organizations embracing these changes are better positioned to withstand disruptions. Ultimately, the lessons learned from recent disruptions highlight the necessity for businesses to prioritize digital transformation and agility as foundational elements of resilient supply chain engineering in the era of disruption.

# 7.0 CHALLENGES AND FUTURE RESEARCH DIRECTIONS

## 7.1 Current Limitations

**(a) Gaps in Methodologies:** The challenges faced by small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in adopting advanced technologies for resilient supply chain engineering are significant, primarily due to cost and complexity. Despite the critical role of resilience in supply chains, many SMEs struggle to implement sophisticated technologies that can enhance their operational capabilities (Golan *et al.*, 2020). Gaps in methodologies are evident, as highlighted by Dubey *et al.* (2019) who note that the limited adoption of data analytics and digital tools in SMEs hampers their ability to respond effectively to disruptions. Furthermore, Basuki (2024) emphasizes that understanding the complex interactions between sustainability initiatives and supply chain resilience is essential for developing frameworks that can guide SMEs in navigating these challenges.

Future research should focus on addressing these gaps by exploring cost-effective solutions and simplified methodologies that enable SMEs to leverage advanced technologies without incurring prohibitive expenses. Negri *et al.* (2021) suggest that future studies should investigate the integration of resilience practices within the broader context of supply chain management, particularly for SMEs. Additionally, Kumar *et al.* (2018) advocate for a deeper exploration of the unique challenges faced by SMEs in developing countries, as these insights can inform tailored strategies for enhancing resilience. By focusing on these areas, researchers can contribute to building a more resilient supply chain landscape that includes SMEs, ultimately fostering greater stability and adaptability in the face of disruptions.

**(b) Technology Adoption Barriers:** The integration of legacy systems with new digital tools presents significant challenges for supply chain resilience, particularly for small and medium enterprises (SMEs). These technology adoption barriers often stem from the high costs and complexities associated with upgrading existing systems, which can hinder the effective implementation of advanced technologies (Rajaguru and Matanda, 2019). Rajaguru and Matanda (2019) emphasize that compatibility between legacy systems and new technologies is crucial for enhancing supply chain capabilities and overall organizational performance. However, many SMEs face difficulties in achieving this compatibility, resulting in a reluctance to invest in necessary digital transformations.

Moreover, Kazantsev *et al.* (2022) identify poor systems connectivity and lack of data sharing among supply chain partners as critical barriers that exacerbate the challenges of integrating new digital tools. As a result, SMEs may miss out on the benefits of enhanced visibility and responsiveness that modern supply chain technologies can provide. Future research should focus on developing frameworks and methodologies that facilitate the seamless integration of legacy systems with new technologies, particularly for SMEs. This includes exploring cost-effective solutions and best practices that can lower the barriers to technology adoption. By addressing these gaps, researchers can help SMEs enhance their resilience and adaptability in an increasingly complex supply chain landscape.

## 7.2 Future Directions
(a) **AI-Driven Resilience Models:** The integration of AI-driven resilience models represents a promising future direction for enhancing supply chain optimization, particularly in the context of disruptions such as those experienced during the COVID-19 pandemic. Research indicates that AI algorithms can significantly improve dynamic supply chain optimization by enabling real-time data analysis and predictive analytics, which are crucial for timely decision-making (Golan *et al.*, 2020; Remko, 2020). For instance, Modgil et al. (2021) highlight the potential of AI to enhance supply chain resilience by facilitating adaptive responses to unexpected disruptions, thereby improving overall performance.

Moreover, Gani *et al.* (2022) emphasize that data-driven supply chains, powered by AI, can develop unique dynamic capabilities that enhance resilience and enable firms to sustain operations during crises. Future research should focus on developing frameworks that leverage AI technologies to create more robust resilience models, particularly for SMEs that may struggle with technology adoption due to cost and complexity. Additionally, exploring the interplay between AI-driven analytics and traditional supply chain practices could yield insights into optimizing supply chain performance while maintaining resilience (Yamin, 2021; Hussain *et al.*, 2022). By addressing these areas, researchers can contribute to building more resilient supply chains capable of adapting to the complexities of modern disruptions.

(b) **Sustainable Blockchain Practices:** The development of energy-efficient blockchain solutions is a crucial future direction for enhancing sustainability in supply chain management. As blockchain technology gains traction across various sectors, its energy consumption has emerged as a significant concern, particularly in the context of environmental sustainability. Research indicates that traditional blockchain consensus mechanisms, such as Proof of Work, consume substantial amounts of energy, which can undermine the sustainability goals of organizations (Aysan *et al.*, 2021). Therefore, there is a pressing need for innovative approaches that prioritize energy efficiency while maintaining the integrity and security of blockchain systems.

Future research should focus on creating and optimizing blockchain protocols that minimize energy consumption. For instance, Aysan *et al.* (2021) suggest exploring alternative consensus mechanisms, such as Proof of Stake or hybrid models, which can significantly reduce energy usage compared to traditional methods. Additionally, integrating blockchain with renewable energy sources could enhance its sustainability, as highlighted by Wu and Tran (2018) who discuss the potential of blockchain in managing decentralized energy systems.

Moreover, the application of blockchain in achieving Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) presents an opportunity for further exploration. By leveraging blockchain for transparent and efficient resource management, organizations can align their operations with sustainability objectives while enhancing supply chain resilience. Overall, advancing energy-efficient blockchain practices will not only contribute to sustainable supply chain engineering but also address the growing concerns regarding the environmental impact of blockchain technology. Figure 3 provides the themes of the challenges, the solutions and results of the research.
<figure><img src="image_4.png" /><figcaption>Figure 3: The Thematic diagram of Resilient Supply Chain Engineering in the Era of Disruption (Authors’ Design)</figcaption></figure>

## 8.0 CONCLUSION

In an era marked by unprecedented disruptions, ranging from global pandemics to climate change, resilient supply chain engineering has emerged as a cornerstone of sustainable and adaptable business practices. This paper has explored the multifaceted strategies, tools, and innovations required to design, implement, and maintain resilient supply chains. This research presented a holistic view of the critical aspects of resilience, sustainability, and adaptability within supply chain systems.

The integration of sustainability into supply chain engineering has proven to be both a challenge and an opportunity. Strategies such as climate-adaptive supply chains and ethical sourcing practices underline the importance of aligning resilience efforts with environmental and social responsibility. Incorporating renewable energy sources, adopting waste-to-resource transformations, and leveraging advanced analytics are pivotal in achieving a dual objective of environmental stewardship and operational efficiency.

The adoption of digital transformation, particularly through technologies such as big data analytics, artificial intelligence, and blockchain, is reshaping the supply chain landscape. These innovations enable real-time decision-making, predictive analytics, and enhanced transparency, thereby equipping organizations to anticipate and mitigate potential disruptions. Notably, the role of AI-driven resilience models and energy-efficient blockchain solutions offers a glimpse into the future of supply chain optimization and sustainability. Despite these advancements, several challenges persist, particularly for small and medium enterprises (SMEs). The high costs, complexities of technology adoption, and integration of legacy systems with modern digital tools remain significant barriers. Furthermore, gaps in methodologies and limited access to resources hinder SMEs' ability to build robust and resilient supply chains. These issues call for innovative, cost-effective solutions tailored to the unique needs of SMEs, emphasizing inclusivity and scalability.

As the landscape of supply chain engineering continues to evolve, several avenues for future research and innovation emerge. Developing AI-driven frameworks that integrate dynamic capabilities with traditional practices offers a promising path for enhancing resilience. Similarly, advancing blockchain technologies with a focus on sustainability and energy efficiency will address the growing environmental concerns associated with digital transformations.
Moreover, interdisciplinary studies examining the interplay between resilience, sustainability, and social responsibility can provide deeper insights into creating comprehensive strategies for modern supply chains. Exploring the potential of decentralized energy systems, circular economy models, and localized supply chain networks could further enhance adaptability and resource efficiency.

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