Grain elevators are a crucial part of the agricultural supply chain of Manitoba, and they have played a historic role in the economic success of the province. Motivated by a desire for enhanced efficiency and productivity, grain companies have been consolidating elevators in Canada, and this has resulted in the closure of less viable grain elevators located in rural parts of the country. This shift has presented significant challenges for farmers, who are now required to transport their grains over longer distances. This study investigates the economic and environmental impacts of these closures from a supply chain sustainability perspective. Economically, farmers are burdened by rising transportation costs, while environmentally, the increased travel distances contribute to higher greenhouse gas emissions and accelerate infrastructure degradation. A conceptual framework is proposed to examine the interconnections between economic and environmental sustainability within agricultural supply chains, drawing on principles of Sustainable Supply Chain Management (SSCM) and the Triple Bottom Line (TBL). The study emphasizes the need for policy interventions, community-driven solutions, and sustainable practices to balance economic viability with environmental stewardship, fostering resilience in Manitoba's agricultural supply chains.
