Framework to Support the Development of Collaborative and Sustainable Biofuels Supply Chains in Ethiopia

Abstract

Background: Sustainable supply chain development is a global priority driven by resource depletion, socio-economic challenges, and environmental concerns. Existing biofuel supply chain studies, however, often focus on isolated upstream or downstream processes and inadequately address multi-stakeholder engagement. Achieving sustainability requires coordinated participation of stakeholders across multiple decision levels, from individuals to society. This study proposes a collaborative framework to support sustainable biofuel development. Methodology: The framework comprises three steps: (i) current-state analysis through stakeholder identification, power–interest mapping, and engagement assessment; (ii) definition of a desired future state; and (iii) development of transition strategies integrating bottom-up and top-down approaches. The framework is applied to a biofuel case study in Ethiopia. Results: Twenty-four stakeholders were identified across nano, micro, meso, and macro levels. Power–interest and engagement analyses revealed key decision-makers and categorized stakeholders as aligned, passive, or militant. The results show that transitioning stakeholders toward active collaboration requires integrated strategies, including capability development, policy alignment, knowledge sharing, and technological advancement. These interventions support coordinated decision-making, improved resource management, and sustainability outcomes such as job creation, energy security, and greenhouse gas reduction. Conclusions: The proposed multi-level interaction framework effectively aligns stakeholders by integrating bottom-up and top-down strategies. It provides a systematic approach to guiding collaborative transitions toward sustainable development.