Optimizing Multi-period Green Electric Vehicle Battery Recycling Network: Integrating Winner Determination Within a 4PL Framework

This article provides practical guidance for engineering managers and policymakers to design cost-efficient and sustainable REVB-RNs. Engineering managers should adopt multi-period network structure, incorporate low-carbon regulations and address heterogeneity of REVB capacities through a collaborative framework that integrates the EVM's proprietary recycling network with 3PRs. Specifically, embedding WD of CRA at the tactical level with REVB-RN design at the strategic level can minimize the total cost under uncertainty. Capacity-based categorization of REVBs enables more specialized and granular management of REVB-RNs. For policymakers, effective inducements for responsible recycling include setting appropriate carbon caps and taxes and imposing penalties for unrecycled REVBs. Overall, the proposed collaborative framework can support a more sustainable and cost-efficient ecosystem for related departments to better recycle REVBs. This study contributes to SDGs 9, 12 and 13.