In recent decades firms have experienced increasing globalization and a shift towards competition among networks of firms. As a result, the field of Supply Chain Management (SCM) within Operations Management (OM) has gained significant attention. However, firms are now realizing the need to incorporate sustainability at the core of their businesses. The widespread concern over sustainability, particularly climate change is putting pressure on companies to adopt greener practices. It is evident that sustainability will, and should, increasingly drive Supply Chain Management decisions.
Some of our research projects
Decentralized Distribution for Sustainable E-Commerce
The e-commerce sector has experienced significant growth since the recent pandemic, with total sales to double by 2027, compared to pre-pandemic levels. To alleviate the strain on supply chains and ensure more environmentally friendly operations, it is crucial to consider alternative network designs.
, Vinh Dang, Z眉mb眉l Atan, and Ivo Adan are developing a strategic optimization framework to transition from centralized storage to a network with multiple decentral storage locations. These strategic decisions include determining the location, capacity and inventory levels of warehouses. Additionally, due to a pressing shortage of operators these new warehouses must be fully automated. By combining network design theory and inventory management with generative AI, this project is part of a consortium with DSV, Smart Robotics and Atlas4 Technologies, funded by TKI Dinalog.
Strategic Remanufacturing Decisions for Sustainable Manufacturing
Remanufacturing is a sustainable business practice that extends product lifespan by restoring used components to 'as new' or even 'state-of-the-art' conditions. Companies can save up to 50% on production costs, while customers benefit from quality assurance at lower prices. However remanufacturing practices require carefully designed marketing strategies and economic feasibility assesments.
To address these challenges, Z眉mb眉l Atan, Christina Imdahl, and are developing business models to select remanufacturers, and optimize remanufacturing timing and pricing strategies. Their goal is to foster the adoption of remanufacturing practices in the most economical manner. This project is part of the Dinalog proposal- LINCIT, which enables collaboration among multiple research institutes and more than 20 companies.
More Information
For more information, please feel free to reach out to Z眉mb眉l Atan