The path to sustainability begins with the companies adopting to go for a greener supply chain.


Deficiencies in the supply chain practices cause pollution, threatening life on earth.Developing a green supply chain is now becoming a buzz word, and more and more businesses are focusing in improving their supply chain practices. For companies who are already engaged into it, more attention is paid in its transparency. Increasing awareness towards environmentalism is causing the consumers to get more focused on the attributes of the product they buy. Today,a consumer is not just satisfied with the price tag, and brand name of the product, but his perceptions goes beyond that seeking to know about the environment in which the product is manufactured. A report on sustainable businesses states that by the next decade textile industry will intensify its sustainable approaches in its supply chain processes. Sustainability is no more a mere business preference, but a precondition for survival.


Textile sector needs to play a progressive part in coming up with environmentally friendly manufacturing solutions. Sustainable practices aim in developing friendly solutions to be followed at various stages of textile production, thus balancing the equilibrium of nature and the environment. The main objective of adopting sustainable practices is to curtail those practices that are detrimental to nature and the environment.


The apparel supply chain:


Restricting the effect of harmful business practices on the environment is a noble goal. Manufacturers and retailers are increasingly focusing on green supply chain practices. Many of the companies are thinking forward, and have already started implementing sustainable business practices. Businesses need to dovetail its goals and aspirations and decide how their existing supply chain practices can be altered to achieve a greener environment. Businesses need to look beyond the walls of their factories while deciding on their supply chain efficiency. For instance; when a company decides to purchase, it should seek suppliers who have minimized their environmental impact without compromising on their quality.


A green supply chain process can be defined as using environmentally friendly inputs, and transforming them through agents whose derivatives can be recycled without causing any harm to the existing environment. Green supply chain process uses inputs that can be recycled and reused at the end of their lifecycle. This creates a sustainable supply chain. Formulating a green supply chain and adopting supportive practices is an umbrella concept. Much care needs to be taken at various stages of the supply chain process. At the manufacturing stage, natural fibres can be used. Fabrics can be treated with non-toxic applications. Design and color choices can be made based on the longevity of the fabric, and ethical labor practices. Environmentally friendly and appropriate packing materials can be used for the end products.

 

Green Supply Chain Process



A green supply chain process enables companies to:

  • Specialize in their manufacturing efforts to handle environmental risks and cost compliance.
  • Work on, and improve the current product, process, productivity, and supply chain quality.
  • Create a unique branding and thereby earn customer loyalty by addressing to environmental issues.
  • Gain access to key markets through their green supply chain practices.
  • Take innovative decisions responding to the green requirements.

Is it a costly process?


Adopting green supply chain practices is a long term commitment for any business. The company should plan for a greener supply chain keeping in mind its short and long term goals, and its financial planning. For instance, if the company opts to use a bio-degradable packing material for its product, then it would be going against the other objective of working to restrict the overall operating expenses. Hence, the company needs to discuss and decide appropriately about the policies, and available options so as to strike a happy balance between the two. Renowned brands from across the globe are following sustainable practices. They have come up with cutting edge supply chain solutions that will help them to earn more profits, and also protect the environment.


Sustainability is becoming the key driver for all innovations. Sustainability offers two-fold benefits for businesses and consumers. Approximately 93% of the corporate believe that sustainability will be critical for the future success of business. Green supply chain process is not only profitable, but also the right goal of companies.


References:

  1. Logistics.about.com
  2. Thegreensupplychain.co.uk