Title: A new hybrid MCDM approach based on fuzzy DEMATEL and ARAS-G for evaluating the sustainable logistics performance of EU countries

Authors: Gül Alışar Kayar; İlker İbrahim Avşar

Addresses: Department of International Trade and Logistics, Faculty of Economics, Administrative and Social Sciences, Toros University, Mersin, Türkiye ' Logistics Department, Bahce VS, Osmaniye Korkut Ata University, Osmaniye, Türkiye

Abstract: In line with the importance of global trade and environmental sustainability, sustainable logistics performance (SLP) has become a research topic in academia and practice. Logistics operations support economic growth, yet their environmental impacts remain a concern. This study examines the integration of sustainability principles into logistics from environmental, economic and operational perspectives. To address the knowledge gap, it develops an approach for criterion weighting and country rankings in SLP measurement. Using hybrid fuzzy and grey multi-criteria decision making (MCDM) methods, the study evaluates the SLP of European Union (EU) countries using nine years of Eurostat data. A hybrid MCDM model combining fuzzy DEMATEL and ARAS-G is proposed. The analysis evaluates the SLP of 26 EU countries across five criteria and identifies the Netherlands, Estonia, France, Italy, and Spain as the top-performing countries. A sensitivity analysis was conducted to assess the model's reliability, confirming its robustness and consistency in the evaluation results.

Keywords: sustainable logistics; performance; multi-criteria decision making; MCDM; fuzzy DEMATEL; ARAS-G.

DOI: 10.1504/IJSTL.2026.154270

International Journal of Shipping and Transport Logistics, 2026 Vol.22 No.4, pp.545 - 567

Received: 19 Aug 2025
Accepted: 11 Jan 2026
Published online: 18 Jun 2026 *

Full-text access for editors Full-text access for subscribers Purchase this article Comment on this article