## 6 Discussion
Also, the hybrid MCDM model made it possible to identify the practices that bring the greatest benefits to biodiversity while realistically considering the possibilities and complexity of their implementation. By developing a robust framework and an innovative hybrid MCDM model, this study confirms the possibility of defining a universally applicable approach, thus answering RQ2. The framework and criteria provide a flexible structure for the objective evaluation of various practices in different industrial contexts. By answering the research questions, this study provides significant contributions to the fields of sustainable supply chain management, biodiversity conservation, and MCDM theory. By defining a set of effective supply chain management practices that contribute to biodiversity conservation, this study adds to the theoretical knowledge of sustainable business practices. On the other hand, the proposed hybrid model contributes to the theory of MCDM methods, especially in the context of sustainability and biodiversity. This study's practical (managerial) implications are numerous and directly aimed at improving business practices. This study could serve as a practical guide for companies. A defined set of applicable practices provides managers with a practical guide to integrating biodiversity protection into their companies' supply chains. The developed framework and criteria enable managers to objectively assess and rank different supply chain management practices based on their contribution to biodiversity conservation. Finally, the hybrid MCDM model provides managers with a structured and reliable framework to make strategic decisions about the implementation of the most effective biodiversity protection practices in their supply chains. Therefore, the results of this study could be useful for academics and researchers in the fields of logistics, transportation, supply chain management, sustainability, and biodiversity conservation, particularly those with an interest in applying multi-criteria decision-making (MCDM) methods to improve sustainability in logistics and transportation operations. Additionally, this manuscript targets logistics and transportation managers and practitioners who are seeking practical guidance on integrating biodiversity protection into their supply chain and transportation processes. It provides insights into effective supply chain management practices that enhance sustainability and contribute to biodiversity conservation, with a focus on improving the environmental impact of logistics and transportation activities. While the framework itself is universally applicable across various sectors, it recognizes that different supply chains may have distinct characteristics, such as the type of goods sold, geographic location, or specific logistical requirements. As a result, the practices identified for promoting biodiversity conservation may be evaluated and ranked differently depending on the unique circumstances of each supply chain. However, the underlying methodology is flexible and adaptable, providing a robust structure that can be applied across diverse logistics environments--whether in food and beverages, reverse logistics, custom-configured supply chains, or other areas. The key strength of this framework lies in its ability to integrate biodiversity protection into any supply chain, regardless of sector or geographic location, while allowing for context-specific evaluations of the most effective practices. Thus, it offers a reliable tool for making strategic decisions aimed at enhancing sustainability and biodiversity conservation in logistics and transportation operations worldwide. The limitations of this study concern the problem structure, the set of respondents who performed the evaluation, and the application of the proposed model. The problem included nine practices and seven evaluation criteria.