Process-Based Fundamentals

The concept of circular economy has gained significant traction in recent years as a holistic approach to sustainable development and resource management. This review explores the principles of circular economy and their integration into global supply chain strategies. The transition from a linear 'take-make-dispose' model to a circular model focused on resource recovery, reuse, and regeneration is driving a paradigm shift in how businesses operate and manage their supply chains. Key principles of circular economy, including designing out waste and pollution, keeping products and materials in use, and regenerating natural systems, are examined in the context of supply chain management. Strategies for implementing circular economy principles across various stages of the supply chain, from product design and manufacturing to distribution, consumption, and end-of-life management, are discussed. The review highlights the benefits of adopting circular economy principles in supply chain strategies, including reduced resource consumption, waste reduction, cost savings, and enhanced resilience to external shocks. Case studies and examples from diverse industries illustrate successful implementation of circular economy principles in supply chain management, demonstrating tangible environmental, social, and economic benefits. Challenges and barriers to the adoption of circular economy principles in global supply chains are also addressed, including regulatory hurdles, technological limitations, and cultural barriers. Strategies for overcoming these challenges and promoting a circular mindset among stakeholders are explored, emphasizing the importance of collaboration, innovation, and cross-sector partnerships. The integration of circular economy principles into global supply chain strategies offers significant opportunities for sustainable growth, resilience, and value creation. By embracing the principles of circularity, businesses can unlock new sources of competitive advantage while contributing to the transition towards a more sustainable and regenerative economy. Keywords: Circular Economy, Supply Chain, Sustainability, Integration, Challenges, Opportunities.

Agriculture, food and global value chains: issues, methods and challenges

The goal of this paper is twofold: to comparatively analyze the social performance of global and local berry supply chains and to explore the ways in which the social dimension is embedded in the overall performance of food supply chains. To achieve this goal, the social performance of five global and local food supply chains in two countries are analyzed: wild blueberry supply chains in Latvia and cultivated raspberry supply chains in Serbia. The study addresses two research questions: (1) What is the social performance of the local and global supply chains? (2) How can references to context help improve understanding of the social dimension and social performance of food supply chains? To answer these questions, two interlinked thematic sets of indicators (attributes) are used—one describing labor relations and the other describing power relations. These lists are then contextualized by examining the micro-stories of the actors involved in these supply chains. An analysis of the chosen attributes reveals that global chains perform better than local chains. However, a context-sensitive analysis from the perspective of embedded markets and communities suggests that the social performance of food chains is highly context-dependent, relational, and affected by actors’ abilities to negotiate values, norms, and the rules embedded within these chains, both global and local. The results illustrate that the empowerment of the chains’ weakest actors can lead to a redefining of the meanings that performance assessments rely on.

There has been a paradigm shift in the functioning of global supply chains, particularly in thepost-pandemic era. This shift is characterized by the convergence of technology. deployment, geopolitical dynamics, and an increased awareness of environmental and social responsibilities. These transformative changes compel businesses to navigate a complex. web of challenges while simultaneously creating many opportunities for global supply chains. This includes delegating responsibilities to the supplier side, empowering suppliers, and promoting digital supply chain networks. Ongoing trade tensions between major economies, such as the United States and China, have resulted in fluctuations in global logistics patterns. Alterations in tariffs and trade agreements impact shipping routes, transportation costs, and the overall flow of goods. Consequently, supply chains must focus on end-to-end supply chains originating from low-cost sources to withstand unforeseen events like black swan occurrences and geopolitical and trade wars. The pandemic has underscored the critical importance of building resilient supply chains. Many firms reevaluate their supply chain strategies, emphasizing diversification to mitigate risk. This involves reassessing suppliers, exploring alternative sourcing options, and increasing safety stock levels. Geopolitical uncertainties and disruptions have prompted reconsidering global sourcing strategies, with reshoring and nearshoring gaining prominence. Companies seek to mitigate risks associated with distant and complex supply chains by bringing production closer to target markets, enhancing responsiveness, reducing lead times, and fortifying supply chain resilience amid uncertain business conditions. From the traditional supply chain model, there is a continuous effort to integrate information technology to transform value streams and increase processes' transparency. Blockchain is playing a significant role, from tracking the provenance of raw materials to reducing transaction fraud. This technology fosters a new level of trust among supply chain partners, safeguarding against potential disruptions and reinforcing the integrity of the entire supply chain ecosystem. These rapid transformations amid uncertain conditions have prompted a reevaluation of supply chain resiliency with a greater focus on risk mitigation strategies. In global logistics, owning ships and manufacturing/leasing containers for extended periods have become the guiding principles. The recent Brexit has also impacted global transport's European and UK legs. The European industry is grappling with significant shortages of resources, including drivers and trained supply chain manpower, affecting last-mile delivery and land transportation in numerous geographies. The growth of e-commerce has significantly influenced supply chains, leading to innovations in last-mile delivery solutions. Companies are investing in warehouse automation, drone deliveries, and other technologies to meet the demands of the rapidly expanding e-commerce market. x Furthermore, a seismic shift toward sustainability reshapes the global supply chain landscape. Businesses recognize the imperative to address environmental, social, and governance (ESG) concerns. Initiatives to reduce carbon footprints, optimize transportation routes, and embrace ethical sourcing practices are becoming integral components of supply chain strategies. Sustainability is no longer merely a corporate buzzword but a critical factor in ensuring long-term viability and meeting the expectations of socially conscious consumers. Overall, global supply chains are undergoing significant transformation driven by technological innovation, environmental consciousness, and a commitment to building resilient networks. Businesses that embrace these trends are not only adapting to the challenges of today but are also positioning themselves to thrive in the dynamic landscape of tomorrow. The key to success is navigating change, leveraging technology, and building sustainable businesses.

Contents: Introduction, James Wang, Daniel Olivier, Theo Notteboom and Brian Slack. Part 1 Conceptualization of Port-Cities and Global Supply Chains: Supply chain and supply chain management: appropriate concepts for maritime studies, Valentina Carbone and Elisabeth Gouvernal Global supply chain integration and competitiveness of port terminals, Photis M. Panayides The terminalisation of seaports, Brian Slack Re-assessing port-hinterland relationships in the context of global supply chains, Theo Notteboom and Jean-Paul Rodrigue. Part 2 Shipping Networks and Port Development: The development of global container transhipment terminals, Alfred J. Baird Mediterranean ports in the global network: how to make the hub and spoke paradigm sustainable?, Enrico Musso and Francesco Parola Northern European range: shipping line concentration and port hierarchy, Antoine Fremont and Martin Soppe Factors influencing the landward movement of containers: the cases of Halifax and Vancouver, Robert J. McCalla. Part 3 Inserting Port-Cities into Global Supply Chains: Globalization and the port-urban interface: conflicts and opportunities, Yehuda Hayuth A metageography of port-city relationships, Cesar Ducruet Chinese port-cities in the global supply chains, James Wang and Daniel Olivier The economic performance of seaport regions, Peter W. De Langen. Part 4 Corporate Perspectives on the Insertion of Ports in Global Supply Chains: The success of Asian container port operators: the role of information technology, Daniel Olivier and Francesco Parola Which link in which chain? Inserting Durban into global automotive supply chains, Peter V. Hall and Glen Robbins Sustainable development and corporate strategies of the maritime industry, Claude Comtois and Brian Slack References Index.

Modern dietary habits in communities are linked and are part of the global food supply chain. To achieve sustainable food production and consumption, communicating the impact associated with food production and dietary choices at community level to consumers is important. However, previous footprint studies have primarily focussed on food consumption at the national level and neglected community–level consumption activities. This study surveyed the diets of a small island community and linked the results with multi-region land footprint analysis in Ollei Village, Republic of Palau. The analysis was used to determine the extent to which the dietary lifestyles of communities depend on external land use through the global supply chain. We showed that the global food supply chain has reached this corner of the world, and the dietary habits of the community are already heavily dependent on processed and imported foods. The community and country are highly dependent on large land use in some major producer/exporting countries through the global food supply chain. In addition, the amount of external land used for food production exceeds the biocapacity of the agricultural land in the community and country. This study bridges the gap between community–level consumption activities and national-scale footprint analysis, and quantitatively assesses the impact of consumption activities at the community level on the global environment. The results and approach of this study could contribute to the development and implementation of vertically integrated food policies between the national and community level in Palau.

Amidst the renewed quest for supply chain resiliency, finance outgrows its traditional role in B2B; instead, finance position itself to become a more integrated partner in supply chain management activities. Areas such as global trade management and supply chain risk management are fluid areas for finance to flourish, coupled with increasing demands for finance to take a more active role in supply chain management. The global supply chain has experienced several disruptions, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, extreme climate change-induced events, natural disasters, conflict, financial crises, recessions, shortages of raw materials for manufacturing, and macroeconomic imbalances; however, futuristic disruptions are already projected by several stakeholders in the logistics and transport sector. Hence, companies must concentrate on building their resilience to all manner of supply chain disruptions. The initial motive of firm management to increase leverage and engage in financial goods is diminished when the economic dilemma of supply chain value is resolved; by so doing, the internal financial situations could facilitate the advancement of enterprise value. Keywords: supply chain, financial service innovations, distribution dimension, COVID-19 DOI: 10.7176/EJBM/15-7-01 Publication date: April 30 th 2023

This study clarifies the impact of global supply chain risks on global logistics companies, with a focus on the potential implications for sustainable supply chain management. The study employs the vector auto-regression model to examine the relationship between the Global Supply Chain Pressure Index (GSCPI) and the stock prices of global logistics companies, yielding the following results. First, the GSCPI does not have a statistically significant effect on most global logistics firms, except for shipping companies, which tend to be negatively impacted by supply chain disruptions. The t-statistics of the GSCPI on air cargo, integrated logistics, and pipeline companies were below the threshold of 1.291, corresponding to a 90% confidence level, which indicates that these results were not statistically significant. Therefore, logistics companies should prioritize the development of resilient and sustainable supply chain strategies incorporating alternative energy sources, such as liquefied hydrogen, ammonia, green methanol, and liquefied natural gas, to enhance their ability to respond to unexpected situations. Second, contrary to other logistics sectors, shipping enterprises have been positively impacted by the GSCPI, suggesting that they may find new opportunities during periods of global instability. By adopting eco-friendly fuel alternatives and green technologies, shipping companies can capitalize on these opportunities and contribute to the global transition toward sustainable logistics practices. These findings suggest that global logistics companies, including pipeline, air cargo, and integrated logistics companies, should develop resilient global supply chain management strategies that incorporate supply chain platforms, nearshoring, and import diversification. This study offers important implications for entrepreneurs and policymakers, emphasizing the role of sustainable energy solutions in stabilizing global supply chains.

Forecasting disruptions in global food value chains to tackle food insecurity: The role of AI and big data analytics – A bibliometric and scientometric analysis

Customer value is influenced by several factors, which impose major challenges to global Supply Chains (SCs) and their management. This study aims to understand how companies tackle these challenges by focusing their global SC management on major strategies and supporting practices. Based on customer value theory, and recognising major trends affecting what end consumers value, we identify four global SC strategies: customer-driven, service-driven, resource-efficient, and closed-loop. A multiple case study carried out in eleven companies in the consumer goods industry explores the practices adopted per each SC strategy in managing global sourcing, production, and distribution networks. Results show the key requirement of selecting tailored practices for SC management that align with the context and the value expected by customers. Operational SC practices entail managing collaborative actions both up and downstream and competing with other SCs and can benefit from the implementation of appropriate digital technologies for customer value creation and delivery, as well as for continuous learning about customer needs.

The semiconductor industry is highly dependent on rare earth elements (REEs) due to their unique properties that enhance the performance of semiconductor devices. REEs, including lanthanides, yttrium, and scandium, are essential in various processes, from producing powerful magnets to improving display technologies and gas sensing capabilities. However, the global supply of REEs is heavily concentrated in China, which accounts for over 90% of production. This concentration poses significant risks for the U.S. semiconductor industry, which relies on imports from China for critical materials. Despite efforts to diversify sources and develop domestic capabilities, the U.S. remains vulnerable due to a lack of processing infrastructure and environmental challenges. This paper explores the current state of the global REE supply chain, focusing on the U.S.’s dependency on foreign imports. Through scenario planning and strategic recommendations, the study offers insights into how the U.S. can strengthen its domestic supply chain and reduce its reliance on foreign REEs, thereby enhancing its competitiveness in the global semiconductor market.

Although fisheries production and seafood trade are global in scope, with billions of dollars in exports, the rebuilding of collapsed fisheries often focus on national fisheries policy and management measures, with little attention to global supply chains and international consumer markets. Even with two moratoria and two decades of policy changes since the Northern Gulf cod fisheries collapsed in eastern Canada, rebuilding has stalled and the fishing industry and coastal communities continue to undergo challenges with economic viability and resource sustainability. This paper examines and analyzes the global supply chain and marketing dimension of Northern Gulf cod fisheries. Drawing upon fisheries bioeconomics and governance theory, a pre- and post-collapse analysis is undertaken to understand key drivers and institutional mechanisms along global fish supply chains for an effective and successful rebuilding. Findings indicate that the collapse of the cod fishery has cascading effects that go beyond ecosystem changes to new harvesting activities, industry restructuring, supply chain reorganization, new global markets and consumer preference for certified seafood. This suggests that a holistic rebuilding approach is necessary, one that integrates institutional and behavioral changes for both producers and consumers at various scales of fisheries production, political economy issues, as well as cross-scale policies on marine conservation and regional economic development.

Developed countries, led by the United States and the European Union, have stepped up security review of supply chains and adopted a series of restrictive policies and protectionist measures to reshape a more secure, sustainable, and risk-controllable supply chain. A key objective of the West’s supply chain strategy is to wean their economies off Chinese influence by resorting to discriminatory policies. Supply chain interventionism on national security grounds violates market rules on which the global supply chain is based, and also runs counter to the principles of nondiscrimination and liberalization embedded in the multilateral trade governance architecture. Global supply chain reshuffles will take time and incur huge costs, leaving ample room for Beijing to make necessary adjustments and bolster its position in global supply networks.

This chapter presents the evaluation of three organic tomato supply chains in Catalonia (Spain): the Local and Global supply chains, and a Mixed supply chain. The evaluation is based on a set of multidimensional indicators derived from different narratives: Commodity, Environmental and Livelihoods. In so doing, we identified the main challenges when implementing the supply chain approach, and propose some recommendations for its application. The supply chain approach proves to be very useful in identifying the critical points at which to intervene and/or improve the performance of food supply chains, but presents some disadvantages when it is used to compare the sustainability of food supply chains. Finally, we show that organic production is not enough to achieve a sustainable food provision system, and the context and the food supply chain in which organic food is commercialised also determine the sustainability of organic food production.

This chapter aims to critically analyze the implications that the national protectionist policies have on the global supply and value chains and the relocation of production. The analysis is based on the assumptions that the global economy is facing the possibility of decoupling of many trade connections, and this trend favors deglobalization processes that have long been promoted by populism, nationalism, and economic protectionism. It is concluded that global supply, production, and value chains, although being economically efficient, are no longer any more secure under national protectionist policies, and therefore, the relocation of production processes is mainly due to the increase in the level of income and wages of the developing countries that are the destination, and which reduce the advantages to relocate.