Supply Chain sustainability & Humanitarian Logistis Case Study

Supply Chain sustainability & Humanitarian Logistis - Case Study Example Thus, this type of supply chain combines both forward and reverse logistics, and covers all the processes from the new product/service development to the point of origin for repairs, manufacture, returns, or recycling (Krajewski, Ritzman, & Malhotra 2010). Moreover, closed-loop supply chain implies sustainable distribution process as the customer sends the used product back to the manufacturer or seller, and thus closes the loop of distribution (Krajewski, Ritzman, & Malhotra 2010). Taking care of end-of-use items is viewed as a proven measure, which makes supply chain for environmentally friendly. Thus, closed-loop supply chain is categorized as sustainable supply chain almost by definition (Quariguasi Frota Neto et al 2010). A closed-loop supply chain is an integrated system, which supports environmental sustainability through maximization of value creation over the entire life cycle of a product followed by recovery of value at different stages and types of returns (Guide & Wassenhove 2009). Practically all phases of the closed-loop supply chain mitigate environmental footprint of manufacturing, usage, transportation, distribution, and end-of-life activities (Quariguasi Frota Neto et al 2010). The items, used in the production process of the closed-loop supply chain, are returned into the supply chain system and then are remanufactured, recovered or recycled (de Brito and Dekker, 2004). These activities help to extend the lifespan of the product and therefore, are sustainable (Quariguasi Frota Neto et al 2010). While extension of the lifespan of a particular item might not be always sustainable as old items might consume more energy than the new ones, the further recycling of these items helps to contr ibute to environment protection (Quariguasi Frota Neto et al 2010). By recycling end-of-life equipment the companies manage harmful substances (polychlorinated biphenyls, lead, etc.), and thus, keep environment cleaner and