The shift towards renewable energy sources has become a crucial worldwide necessity in light of urgent environmental issues and the need to reduce the impacts of climate change (IEA, 2021). As renewable energy deployment speeds up, it becomes necessary to closely examine the complex dynamics of renewable energy supply chains, especially regarding pricing mechanisms and the impact of inflation. The renewable energy industry is influenced by different stakeholders, such as manufacturers, suppliers, distributors, policymakers, and consumers. Each of these stakeholders plays a crucial role in determining the direction of renewable energy adoption and its costs (Wang et al., 2020). Nevertheless, the intricate nature of these supply chains frequently gives rise to difficulties such as price escalation, which can hinder the wider availability and affordability of renewable energy solutions. Inflationary pressures in the supply chains of renewable energy can arise from various sources, including shortages of raw materials, limitations in production, speculation in the market, and uncertainties in policies (Zhang et al., 2020). The complex web of interrelated processes that extend from the production of components to the installation of renewable energy projects makes renewable energy supply chains vulnerable to disruptions, which in turn increases the likelihood of price fluctuations and inflation. In addition, the early development phase of numerous renewable energy technologies intensifies these difficulties, as the full benefits of large-scale production have not yet been achieved, leading to comparatively higher costs of production in comparison to traditional energy sources (Xie et al., 2019). Therefore, it is crucial to comprehend and tackle the factors that cause price inflation in renewable energy supply chains in order to promote sustainable growth and widespread acceptance of clean energy technology. Collaboration among stakeholders is an increasingly recognised technique to address price inflation in renewable energy supply chains. Collaboration involves the coordinated endeavours of numerous participants striving towards shared objectives, including activities such as exchanging information, combining resources, making decisions together, and sharing risks (Levy et al., 2018). Within the realm of renewable energy supply chains, collaboration can take on different manifestations, such as collaborations between manufacturers and suppliers, alliances among project developers, and coordination between government agencies and industry participants (Mazzola et al., 2019). Through the strategic use of cooperative efforts and the alignment of goals across the entire process of creating and delivering a product or service, collaborative initiatives can improve effectiveness, save expenses, and minimise the negative effects of rising prices. The importance of collaboration in the renewable energy industry is emphasised by its diverse consequences for the resilience of the supply chain, the promotion of innovation, and the achievement of sustainability. Collaboration enhances resilience by establishing duplicate supply chain networks and encouraging the sharing of optimal strategies to minimise supply interruptions and price surges (Schlossberger et al., 2021). Moreover, the process of collaborative innovation, which involves the exchange of knowledge and cooperation across many disciplines, has the potential to stimulate technical progress and expedite the creation of affordable renewable energy solutions (Huenteler et al., 2020). Collaboration among stakeholders facilitates the joint effort to tackle environmental and social issues, including the reduction of carbon emissions, the promotion of fair access to clean energy, and the advancement of inclusive economic development (Carpenter et al., 2021). Therefore, collaboration becomes a necessary and important strategy for effectively managing the challenges of renewable energy supply chains and fully achieving the benefits of transitioning to clean energy. While there are potential advantages, there are also obstacles to overcome in order to achieve successful collaboration within renewable energy supply chains. The presence of many parties with varying interests and unequal distribution of power frequently creates obstacles to collaboration and the establishment of agreement (Wu et al., 2021). In addition, the intense competition and changing market conditions may cause industry participants to be hesitant in sharing confidential information or participating in cooperative projects that could potentially undermine their competitive edge (Borland et al., 2020). The viability and extent of joint endeavours can be affected by regulatory frameworks and policy actions, which can either encourage cooperation or create obstacles to participation (Liang et al., 2019). Therefore, successfully navigating these intricacies necessitates a sophisticated comprehension of the contextual elements that influence collaboration within the renewable energy industry. This qualitative research aims to examine the impact of collaboration on reducing price inflation in renewable energy supply chains. This study seeks to clarify the processes, difficulties, and results of collaborative initiatives in the renewable energy industry by conducting thorough interviews with important stakeholders and analysing common themes. This project aims to provide practical insights and recommendations for promoting effective collaboration and improving the resilience and sustainability of renewable energy supply chains by thoroughly examining collaborative dynamics. This work adds to the wider discussion on sustainable energy transitions and provides valuable insights for policymakers, industry professionals, and academic researchers in the field of renewable energy economics and supply chain management.

The current literature on collaboration in renewable energy supply chains and its effect on minimising price inflation shows a growing emphasis on addressing the challenges and benefits linked to the transition to sustainable energy sources. This literature review incorporates a diverse array of studies from multiple disciplines, such as supply chain management, economics, environmental science, and policy analysis. The paper consolidates significant observations and discoveries to establish a framework for the research's emphasis on cooperative tactics in renewable energy supply chains. Renewable energy supply chains are characterised by their intricate engagement in multiple phases of production, distribution, and consumption across various geographical regions (Yang et al., 2021). Collaboration is considered essential in this specific context for enhancing the resilience, efficiency, and sustainability of the supply chain (Zhou et al., 2020). Hao et al. (2018) have highlighted the importance of collaboration among different stakeholders in the renewable energy sector, including manufacturers, suppliers, policymakers, and consumers, in order to successfully address common challenges and capitalise on emerging opportunities. Collaborative initiatives can enhance innovation, reduce costs, and mitigate risks associated with supply chain disruptions through the pooling of resources, sharing of information, and alignment of interests (Borekci et al., 2020). The primary objective of collaboration in renewable energy supply chains is to address the challenges of price inflation and volatility, which could hinder the expansion and competitiveness of renewable energy technologies (Karakaya et al., 2019). The rise in pricing within renewable energy supply chains can be attributed to various factors, including scarcities of raw materials, production constraints, market speculation, and policy uncertainties (Zhang et al., 2020). The variable costs linked to components such as solar panels, wind turbines, and energy storage devices emphasise the vulnerability of renewable energy supply chains to external disturbances and market changes (Wang et al., 2021). Hence, industry stakeholders, governments, and investors are deeply interested in mitigating price inflation to foster sustainable growth and the extensive adoption of clean energy technologies (Sun et al., 2022). This study investigates the impact of cultural norms on sustainable entrepreneurship in the small and medium-sized company (SME) sector in Bangladesh, specifically analysing the favourable and unfavourable outcomes. The essay highlights the substantial impact of government policies in promoting sustainable habits and proposes comprehensive ways to overcome cultural barriers (Emon & Khan, 2023). The literature study explores the gender dynamics in Bangladeshi entrepreneurship, focusing on the challenges faced by women and the government's efforts to overcome these challenges (Rahman et al., 2024). This underscores the necessity of employing precise methodologies and carrying out comprehensive inquiries to advance inclusive entrepreneurship. This website is a crucial tool for policymakers and individuals engaged in the decision-making process (Emon & Nipa, 2024). This study examines the impact of technology on the service quality and patient happiness in hospitals, with a particular focus on the connections between various service components and the overall patient well-being. The recommendations focus on improving the ability to respond quickly, assuring clear communication, and supporting effective communication in the healthcare industry. Additionally, the recommendations consider patients' preferences for the use of technology. Emon et al. (2023) argue that further research is necessary to improve the accuracy of solutions in this domain. An assessment gauges the extent of public comprehension and perspectives on solar technology, with a particular focus on the significance of disseminating knowledge and surmounting barriers to its acceptability, such as exorbitant expenses and restricted accessibility. Efficient teamwork and incentives have a crucial role in promoting the progress of sustainable energy (Hasan Emon, 2023). This study examines the barriers that impede the use of renewable energy technology (RET) in rural areas, focusing specifically on solar home systems (SHS) in Bangladesh. The findings highlight the constraints in consumption and the barriers between supply and demand, offering significant insights for establishing a regulatory framework that encourages the wider adoption of renewable energy technology. Supporting this initiative is crucial for attaining sustainable development and reducing poverty (Khan et al., 2020). The study investigates the incorporation of sustainable energy sources in Dhaka city through the utilisation of qualitative interviews with 40 significant individuals. The objective is to recognise challenges and suggest remedies. The viability of solar and wind energy as power sources is now widely acknowledged. Nevertheless, the extensive use of these sources is impeded by barriers such as their exorbitant expenses and constraints in infrastructure. The suggested approaches involve the establishment of legal structures and the promotion of public consciousness. The objective of these projects is to emphasise the importance of cooperation among the government, corporate sector, and civil society to attain a more ecologically sustainable and resilient energy future in Dhaka (Emon & Khan, 2023). The study examines the impact of Supplier Relationship Management techniques on the cost effectiveness of supply chains in Bangladesh, specifically emphasising the significance of Supplier Collaboration and Long-Term Relationships. Although it has several limitations, the study offers useful insights into enhancing the efficiency of supply chains and highlights the strategic importance of Supplier Relationship Management (SRM) in emerging economies (Emon et al., 2024). This study utilised a qualitative case study methodology to examine the influence of education and emotional intelligence on long-lasting behavioural modifications among college students in Bangladesh. The study underscores the significance of education in enhancing consciousness and underscores the crucial function of emotional intelligence in promoting empathy and social aptitude (Emon et al., 2024). The findings offer useful insights that can be employed to construct effective strategies for sustainable development projects (Hasan & Chowdhury, 2023). A study examines the factors influencing students' choice of higher education institutions in Dhaka, including variables such as family wealth, tuition fees, job opportunities, and the reputation of universities. Furthermore, important elements such as personal preferences, parental perspectives, geographical location, infrastructure, and safety measures are significant considerations that provide valuable information for institutions and policymakers in Bangladesh (Emon et al., 2023). An ongoing study is investigating the user experiences and perspectives of the solar revolution in Bangladesh. The goal is to acquire a thorough comprehension of its impact and to identify any barriers and opportunities that may arise. Hasan and Emon (2023) conducted a study employing qualitative techniques. The study comprised a group of 40 individuals who utilised solar systems in both rural and urban environments. The results of this study have important consequences for policy and practical applications, and enhance the current comprehension of renewable energy in developing countries. An extensive analysis investigates the various drivers and consequences of price hikes in Bangladesh, with a specific emphasis on the policy implications. Emon (2023) suggests implementing strategies to control inflation, promote competition, and improve supply chain efficiency in order to mitigate adverse effects and strengthen economic stability. Collaboration offers a promising strategy for addressing price inflation in renewable energy supply chains through the promotion of coordination, risk-sharing, and value creation along the value chain (Levy et al., 2021). Studies have highlighted the significance of employing collaborative procurement methods, joint research and development initiatives, and strategic partnerships to decrease costs and enhance the competitiveness of renewable energy technologies (Feng et al., 2020). Collaborative ventures can generate cost efficiencies that benefit all stakeholders by leveraging economies of scale, optimising supply chain logistics, and streamlining production processes (Zhu et al., 2019). Furthermore, collaboration enables stakeholders to effectively oversee intricate rules, mitigate geopolitical risks, and promptly adapt to market fluctuations, hence enhancing the resilience and flexibility of renewable energy supply chains (Zeng et al., 2021). The effectiveness of collaboration in mitigating price inflation in renewable energy supply chains is contingent upon several factors, including organisational capabilities, institutional frameworks, and market conditions (Liu et al., 2021). The importance of trust, transparency, and mutual understanding among collaborators in fostering successful partnerships and overcoming challenges to cooperation has been emphasised by researchers (Wei et al., 2020). Developing collaborative partnerships requires a shared vision, clearly defined communication channels, and strategies for resolving conflicts and addressing divergent interests (Zhang et al., 2021). Furthermore, the provision of regulatory support and policy incentives plays a vital role in encouraging cooperation and creating a conducive environment for the successful implementation of sustainable energy transitions (Lu et al., 2022). Policy interventions, such as providing financial support for renewable energy, offering tax benefits, and implementing mechanisms to price carbon emissions, can encourage investment in clean energy technology and facilitate cooperation among industry stakeholders (Shi et al., 2021). Collaboration in renewable energy supply chains offers significant advantages, but it faces challenges in achieving efficient coordination and cooperation (Chen et al., 2022). Yin et al. (2019) have found various barriers to collaboration, including disparities in information accessibility, resource constraints, opposing objectives, and competitive dynamics. In order to overcome these challenges, it is crucial for policymakers, industrial players, and civil society actors to collaborate in a cooperative setting that emphasises shared goals and collective efforts (Wang et al., 2022). Moreover, to enhance collaboration within renewable energy supply chains, it is imperative to allocate resources towards the advancement of human capital, technology infrastructure, and institutional capacity-building. These investments will facilitate the dissemination of information and the proliferation of innovation (Tian et al., 2020). The current body of research on collaboration in renewable energy supply chains emphasises the vital importance of collaborative strategies in mitigating price inflation and facilitating sustainable energy transitions. Collaborative projects have the potential to decrease expenses, enhance the ability of the supply chain to withstand disruptions, and accelerate the implementation of sustainable energy technology by leveraging synergies, distributing risks, and aligning interests. Nevertheless, to fully exploit the advantages of collaboration, it is imperative to surmount obstacles such as distrust, regulatory ambiguity, and fluctuations in market conditions. In order to advance our understanding, it is crucial for future study to delve deeper into the techniques, outcomes, and variables that impact collaboration within renewable energy supply chains. This will enhance the quality of laws, industrial practices, and academic research in the field of sustainable energy transitions by utilising reliable and robust data.

The research methodology utilised in this study employed a qualitative approach with the objective of acquiring comprehensive insights into the function of collaboration in reducing price inflation across renewable energy supply chains. The decision was made to use semi-structured interviews as the main approach for gathering data in order to provide flexibility and the opportunity to delve into the viewpoints and experiences of the participants. The sampling technique employed purposive sampling, specifically targeting important stakeholders who possess expertise and are actively participating in renewable energy supply chains. This includes manufacturers, suppliers, policymakers, industry associations, and academic researchers. We aimed to include a wide variety of participants from various geographical regions and organisational backgrounds in order to gain a thorough grasp of the collaborative dynamics in the renewable energy sector. Interviews were done either face-to-face or by remote means, based on the preferences and logistical factors of the participants. Before conducting the interviews, we sought informed consent from all participants and offered assurances of confidentiality and anonymity to ensure the research was conducted ethically. The interview protocol was created to get in-depth qualitative data regarding participants' perspectives on collaboration, including the factors that motivate it, the difficulties it presents, and the results it achieves in reducing price inflation in renewable energy supply chains. Open-ended questions were devised to promote participants' unrestricted sharing of their views, experiences, and perspectives. The data analysis was performed iteratively using theme analysis, adhering to the principles established by Braun and Clarke (2006). The researcher thoroughly reviewed and analysed the interview transcripts to become acquainted with the data. Subsequently, programmes were created to detect patterns, themes, and repeating notions that are pertinent to the research aims. By consistently comparing and triangulating data, themes were refined and organised into coherent categories that represent the main aspects of collaboration in reducing price inflation in renewable energy supply chains. Trustworthiness and rigour were maintained by implementing several tactics, such as member checking, peer debriefing, and reflexivity. Member checking is a process where the preliminary findings are shared with participants to confirm the correctness and interpretation of their responses. Colleagues who are knowledgeable in qualitative research methodologies were engaged in peer debriefing sessions to thoroughly examine the analytical process and improve the credibility of the findings. The researcher ensured reflexivity by continuously reflecting on and documenting their beliefs, prejudices, and preconceptions. This approach effectively reduced the possibility of bias caused by the researcher. The study's findings were cross-referenced with current literature to enhance the analysis and offer a thorough comprehension of the studied topic. The selected themes were reinforced and validated by utilising quotes and excerpts from participants' interviews, so bolstering the reliability and credibility of the findings. The research methodology employed in this study allowed for a detailed examination of collaboration within renewable energy supply chains, providing insight into its function, difficulties, and impact on reducing price inflation.

The study's results and findings provided a comprehensive understanding of how collaboration might help reduce price inflation in renewable energy supply chains. After conducting detailed interviews with important individuals involved, we identified many recurring patterns that demonstrate the intricate relationship between various elements that affect collaboration and their consequences for dealing with rising prices in the renewable energy industry. An important theme that arose from the interviews was the significance of trust and relational capital in promoting successful collaboration across renewable energy supply chains. Participants highlighted the crucial importance of trust as a fundamental component for establishing collaborative connections and surmounting obstacles to cooperation. Trust was considered vital for enabling the exchange of information, collaborative decision-making, and the distribution of risks among stakeholders. Attendees emphasised the importance of establishing enduring partnerships and interpersonal connections to cultivate trust and promote cooperative endeavours. According to a participant's observation, "Trust is the fundamental basis of collaboration." Lack of confidence hinders the ability to establish significant collaboration and tackle shared issues such as price inflation. Another significant discovery was the impact of regulatory frameworks and policy incentives on cooperative endeavours within renewable energy supply chains. The participants emphasised the influence of government policies on market dynamics, encouraging investment, and fostering collaboration among industry participants. Policy interventions, such as subsidies for renewable energy, tax incentives, and feed-in tariffs, were identified as significant catalysts for collaborative initiatives, fostering cooperation among stakeholders in pursuit of shared objectives. Nevertheless, participants also emphasised the necessity of reliable and clear legislative frameworks to ensure certainty and stability for collaborative endeavours. Regulatory ambiguities and alterations in policies were recognised as possible obstacles to cooperation, eroding trust and impeding strategic planning and investment in renewable energy initiatives. Collaborative procurement has become an important method for reducing price increases in renewable energy supply chains. Participants emphasised the advantages of combining resources, consolidating demand, and negotiating advantageous terms with suppliers through collaborative procurement activities. Joint purchasing consortia and strategic alliances were identified as useful methods for attaining economies of scale, minimising expenses, and improving the efficiency of the supply chain. The participants highlighted the significance of collaboration in enhancing procurement processes, simplifying logistics, and reducing transaction costs. Through the utilisation of collective purchasing power, collaborative procurement activities allowed stakeholders to attain cost savings and alleviate the effects of price inflation on renewable energy projects. Joint research and development (R&D) has emerged as a crucial factor in reducing costs and fostering innovation in renewable energy supply chains, alongside collaborative procurement. The participants emphasised the importance of joint research and development (R&D) initiatives in advancing technical progress, enhancing product performance, and reducing production expenses. Consortia, research networks, and public-private partnerships were mentioned as beneficial venues for encouraging the exchange of knowledge, sharing of best practices, and speeding up the development and commercialization of renewable energy technology. Participants highlighted the significance of collaborative research and development (R&D) in improving the competitiveness of renewable energy products and expanding their market share. Collaborative research and development (R&D) activities allowed stakeholders to combine their knowledge, resources, and abilities to overcome technical obstacles, realise cost savings through increased production, and become competitive in the renewable energy market. Moreover, the attendees emphasised the significance of strategic partnerships and alliances in reducing price inflation in renewable energy supply chains. Collaborative partnerships among manufacturers, suppliers, project developers, and financiers were identified as effective means of distributing risks, aligning interests, and collecting value along the supply chain. Joint ventures, equity partnerships, and project consortia were considered smart means of combining resources, gaining access to untapped markets, and spreading out risks in renewable energy projects. The participants stressed the need of strategic alignment and mutual benefit in promoting successful partnerships. They emphasised the necessity of having clear objectives, open governance structures, and effective risk-sharing systems. Through the establishment of strategic partnerships, stakeholders successfully utilised their respective strengths, capitalised on market possibilities, and minimised the negative effects of price inflation on renewable energy projects. Furthermore, the results highlighted the significance of working together in managing supply chains for renewable energy to reduce price inflation. Participants emphasised the importance of cohesive planning, coordination, and communication throughout the supply chain to optimise the allocation of resources, reduce the time it takes to complete tasks, and manage and reduce interruptions in the supply chain. Collaborative forecasting, inventory management, and production planning were identified as successful tactics for enhancing supply chain efficiency and decreasing expenses. Participants highlighted the significance of exchanging information, increasing visibility, and coordinating with stakeholders to improve the ability of the supply chain to withstand disruptions and promptly adapt to changes. Through the use of collaborative strategies in supply chain management, stakeholders successfully tackled obstacles, reduced potential risks, and enhanced the overall efficiency of renewable energy supply chains. To summarise, the study's results and findings emphasised the crucial significance of collaboration in reducing price inflation in renewable energy supply chains. Trust, regulatory frameworks, collaborative procurement, cooperative R&D, strategic alliances, and collaborative supply chain management have been identified as important factors that facilitate collaboration in the renewable energy sector. These factors contribute to cost reduction, innovation, and resilience. However, in order to achieve successful collaboration, it is necessary to tackle obstacles such as lack of trust, uncertainty in regulations, and competitive dynamics. In order to fully harness the potential of renewable energy supply chains in addressing price inflation and promoting sustainable energy transitions, it is crucial to establish a collaborative ecosystem that prioritises shared goals, transparency, and mutual gain.

The debate explores the consequences of the study's findings on the impact of collaboration in reducing price inflation in renewable energy supply chains. The findings underscored the complex and diverse character of collaboration, emphasising its importance as a strategic necessity for tackling price inflation and promoting sustainable energy transitions. Trust is a crucial factor that supports successful collaboration by enabling the exchange of information, making decisions together, and sharing risks among stakeholders. Establishing trust necessitates cultivating enduring connections, fostering openness, and aligning interests to surmount obstacles to cooperation and improve joint results. The impact of regulatory frameworks and policy incentives on joint endeavours within renewable energy supply chains was also emphasised. Government policies are essential in influencing market dynamics, encouraging investment, and fostering collaboration among industry participants. Policy interventions, such as subsidies, tax incentives, and feed-in tariffs, can encourage collaboration by matching economic incentives and promoting a favourable regulatory environment. Nevertheless, the presence of unknown regulations and policy alterations present obstacles to collaboration, emphasising the importance of stable, consistent, and transparent regulatory frameworks. These frameworks are necessary to ensure predictability and facilitate long-term planning and investment in renewable energy projects. Collaborative buying has become an important method for reducing price inflation in renewable energy supply chains. Through the consolidation of resources, the combination of demand, and the negotiation of advantageous conditions with suppliers, stakeholders can attain economies of scale, diminish expenses, and improve the efficiency of the supply chain. Collaborative research and development projects were also recognised as crucial factors in reducing costs and driving innovation in renewable energy supply chains. Collaborative research and development (R&D) promotes the sharing of knowledge, facilitates technological progress, and enhances product enhancements. This leads to reduced manufacturing expenses and a higher level of competitiveness for renewable energy solutions. Strategic partnerships and alliances are crucial in reducing price inflation in renewable energy supply chains. Collaborative ventures facilitate the sharing of risks, alignment of interests, and capture of value along the supply chain by stakeholders. Through the establishment of strategic partnerships, stakeholders can capitalise on their respective strengths, gain entry into untapped markets, and mitigate risks associated with renewable energy initiatives. For successful partnerships and achieving the best joint results, it is crucial to have strategic alignment, transparency, and effective risk-sharing procedures. Moreover, the utilisation of collaborative strategies in supply chain management is essential for improving the effectiveness, durability, and adaptability of renewable energy supply chains. Efficiently planning, coordinating, and communicating throughout the supply chain allows stakeholders to maximise resource allocation, reduce lead times, and manage supply chain disruptions effectively. Collaborative forecasting, inventory management, and production planning contribute to cost reduction and enhance supply chain performance. In summary, the conversation emphasises the need of working together as a strategic necessity to reduce price inflation and promote the progress of sustainable energy transitions in renewable energy supply chains. However, in order to achieve effective collaboration, it is necessary to confront obstacles such as lack of trust, uncertainty in regulations, and competitive dynamics. Creating a cooperative environment that prioritises common objectives, openness, and reciprocal advantages will be crucial for fully harnessing the potential of renewable energy supply chains in combating rising prices and facilitating the shift towards a more environmentally friendly energy future.

Ultimately, this study has offered significant insights into how collaboration can effectively reduce price inflation in renewable energy supply chains. The research has shed light on the complex dynamics of collaboration and its implications for tackling the issues in the renewable energy sector, using in-depth interviews and thematic analysis. Trust was determined to be a fundamental component that supports successful collaboration, with regulatory frameworks and policy incentives being recognised as important factors that motivate joint endeavours. The importance of collaborative procurement, cooperative research and development, strategic alliances, and collaborative supply chain management was emphasised as crucial techniques for cost reduction, innovation promotion, and resilience enhancement in renewable energy supply chains. However, in order to achieve successful collaboration, it is necessary to overcome obstacles such as a lack of trust, uncertainty in regulations, and competitive dynamics. In order to fully harness the potential of renewable energy supply chains in addressing price inflation and promoting sustainable energy transitions, it is crucial to establish a collaborative ecosystem that prioritises shared goals, transparency, and mutual gain. Through the utilisation of collaborative techniques, stakeholders can effectively address obstacles, take advantage of favourable circumstances, and actively contribute to the shift towards a more sustainable and resilient energy future. This study enhances the current body of knowledge by offering practical insights and suggestions for policymakers, industry professionals, and scholars who aim to foster cooperation and reduce price increases in renewable energy supply chains.