Till recent times, sustainability and growth have been considered as two opposite poles. Sustainability development was considered as a cost rather than a long term investment. Although, the current pandemic times have pushed companies to adapt to sustainable measures to compete.
Thus the new mantra of industries is to build sustainable system.
Sustainable does not just mean using green and usable products. Sustainability encompasses whole supply chain from designing, procurement, manufacturing, logistics and reverse logistics.
Sustainability in designing: Nike shoes design
To make the product more sustainable, Nike redesigned shoes. This was also profitable for Nike as customers are willing to pay more for sustainable products.
Sustainability in procurement: Starbucks coffee beans
Starbucks procures coffee beans from Africa. It ensures that the suppliers follow sustainable practices. This also includes the labour practices followed by suppliers.
Sustainability in manufacturing: Toyota manufacturing system
Toyota has pioneered lean manufacturing. The aim of lean manufacturing is to reduce costs at each level of supply chain. Just-in-time approach schedules parts when needed. It also uses Keiretsu approach to develop its suppliers.
Sustainability in logistics and reverse logistics: Coca-cola bottles
Coca-cola has focused on bringing back the used bottles and reuse them. Rather than wasting, Coca-Cola reduces cost by reusing the bottles.
Thus, sustainability is the key to successful operations in future.
Great work, really enjoyed reading it
ReplyDeleteSustainable development is the future of Industry. Perfect way of explaining with examples.
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