# Remanufacturing Shoemaking Machine: Feasibility Study Using AHP and DEMATEL Approach
## 1 Introduction  
The footwear industry is undergoing a crucial transformation driven by consumer demand for sustainable practices and a growing awareness of the environmental impact of traditional production methods. This shift necessitates a comprehensive approach to reducing the industry's footprint. Environmental challenges of footwear production include high water consumption, extensive use of chemicals, large carbon footprint, and solid waste generation. Consumers are increasingly concerned about the environmental impact of the products they purchase. This leads to a growing demand for sustainable footwear options that minimize environmental damage throughout the product life cycle. Governments worldwide are implementing stricter environmental regulations to curb pollution and promote sustainable practices. Footwear companies face increasing pressure to comply with these regulations and demonstrate environmental responsibility. As concerns about resource depletion grow, the availability of essential materials becomes less secure. This necessitates a shift towards more sustainable practices that minimize resource dependency. The footwear industry faces a critical juncture. By acknowledging the environmental challenges of current practices and embracing sustainable solutions, theindustry can navigate this transition and ensure its long-term viability. The imperative for sustainability transcends mere environmental responsibility; it has become a cornerstone for the footwear industry's future success. Consumers increasingly prioritize eco-conscious practices throughout the product life cycle, while stricter regulations and resource scarcity necessitate a shift towards a more sustainable production model. As such, embracing sustainable practices is no longer optional but a strategic imperative for footwear companies to ensure their long-term viability. For centuries, shoemaking has been a skilled trade relying on manual dexterity and specialized tools. The traditional process involved numerous labor-intensive steps, from leather cutting and stitching to shaping and finishing, all performed by experienced crafts-people. However, the 20 th and 21 st centuries have witnessed a significant transformation in this industry driven by advancements in technology. Modern shoemaking embraces a blend of tradition and innovation. While skilled workers remain crucial for design, quality control, and certain specialized tasks, automation and robotics have significantly altered the production landscape. The examples of modern technologies include Computerized Numeric Control (CNC) machines, automated sewing machines, robotic arms, etc. The integration of modern technologies has significantly transformed the shoemaking industry and brought in the benefits of increasing production efficiency, enhancing product quality, and improving working conditions. The future of shoemaking likely lies in a synergistic blend of traditional craftsmanship and cutting-edge technological advancements. As technology continues to evolve, we should expect further innovations that improve sustainability, efficiency, and the overall quality of footwear production. The global footwear industry is facing increasing pressure to minimize its environmental footprint. Traditional production processes often generate significant waste through the disposal of machinery at the end of its lifecycle. Remanufacturing, the process of restoring a used machine to its original functionality through repair, replacement of components, and performance testing, presents a promising approach to promote sustainability within this sector. This study investigates the feasibility of remanufacturing shoemaking machines using a combined AHP and DEMATEL approach. The AHP (Analytic Hierarchy Process) allows for us to prioritize different types of shoemaking machines (e.g., sole-making, surface production, forming) for remanufacturing based on key criteria determined by industry experts.