Abstract
M.Phil. (Engineering Management)
Remanufacturing is gradually becoming a key practice as countries seek sustainable means to reduce their carbon footprint and achieve zero landfills in their society. However, remanufacturing is not without its challenges. This study seeks to determine the relevant key performance indicators, drivers of and barriers to remanufacturing, as well as ways to encourage remanufacturing, the benefits of remanufacturing and ways to mitigate the barriers that could hinder the development of remanufacturing in Nigeria.
The data used in this research was derived from both primary and secondary sources. The secondary data was collected via detailed review of related literature. The primary data was collected through a questionnaire which was distributed to engineering professionals based in the manufacturing and heavy industry sectors. Ninety-eight (98) questionnaires were received from one hundred and twenty (120) sent out, representing an 82 per cent response rate. Findings from the research were analysed, using descriptive statistics and exploratory factor analysis. From the descriptive analysis it was found that government regulations, the availability of technical skilled workers, the availability of parts, general standards for remanufacturing, and customer awareness are revealed to be the respondents’ top choice of key performance indicators. Furthermore, the findings revealed that the barriers for remanufacturing are a lack of infrastructure to support remanufacturing, a lack of original equipment manufacturers’ participation, the threat of counterfeit products, unorganized remanufacturing sector, and the fear that remanufactured goods would be sold as new, among others. In addition, the drivers of remanufacturing were found to be the creation of job opportunities, achieving of low carbon footprints, reduction of greenhouse emissions, achieving zero landfill reduction, improving profitability and conservation of natural resources according to the respondents. The study further revealed that the benefits of remanufacturing to the Nigerian economy include the development of an industrial base, industrialisation to rural areas, boosting of export trade and the conservation of natural resources as important benefits of remanufacturing to the Nigerian economy. Likewise, regarding ways to encourage remanufacturing in Nigeria, it was revealed that the development of take-back schemes, implementing of landfill, bans of end-of-life products, a clear definition of remanufacturing, and non-stringent legislation by government on remanufacturing are very important to encourage remanufacturing in Nigeria. Finally, creating awareness, establishing buy-in when purchasing products, and setting up policies for sustainability standards were...