In modern times, the idea of sustainable development became the priority not only for large corporations but also for small and medium enterprises. Sustainability means adjusting the company’s entire manufacturing process to ensure low harm to the environment and society (Kot, 2018). Since the whole product lifecycle should be sustainable, the supply chain should also be discussed. The latter can be considered balanced and environmentally friendly when “the system of connected business activities” creates value for all stakeholders, ensures commercial success, increases social welfare, and improves environmental status (Kot, 2018, p. 2). The completely efficient supply chain management (SCM) strategy results in zero damage to flora, fauna, soil, water, and air (Kot, 2018). At the same time, SCM allows for bringing substantial profit in the long term (Kot, 2018). It requires eloquent manipulation of materials, financial and human resources, and information (Kot, 2018). Overall, the main principle of the SCM strategy is to standardize the production process and create a cooperative network that enables reducing the negative impact on the environment, which can be summarized as logistics.
The concept of logistics can be incorporated into one’s SCM career by developing standard strategies for controlling the material flow and effective communication between various levels of manufacturing. I believe that acquiring this method into practice requires constant interaction and feedback from workers, consumers, and sustainability experts. Moreover, I think that SCM is a timely introduced approach to protect nature from industrial harm and prevent catastrophic outcomes for humanity. In my opinion, if the international community continues to utilize SCM, more companies will start implementing these strategies for environmental protection. In that case, the problem of global warming and pollution will be, if not resolved but at least significantly diminished.
Reference
Kot, S. (2018). Sustainable supply chain management in small and medium enterprises. Sustainability, 10(4), 1-19. Web.