Sustainable Supply Chain Management

Brief description

Sustainability is also a crucial factor within the value chain. Sustainability management here, known as Sustainable Supply Chain Management (SSCM), looks at sustainability challenges and potentials along the entire manufacturing process. Thus, not only the procurement of sustainable materials and raw materials (sustainable sourcing) is one of our focal points, but also process redesign, which can, for example, lead to more energy-efficient, climate-friendly manufacturing processes.

The innovation process along the supply chain expresses a great importance to our research. We analyse individual aspects that positively support the process, such as collaborations with NGOs or competencies as resources. We also look at the negative drivers, such as barriers to innovation, lack of resources or excessive risks. In doing so, we ask ourselves the exemplary questions:

How do companies along different value chains develop entrepreneurial capabilities and resources to integrate sustainability?

How can sustainability be integrated into procurement?

How can collaborations and partnerships influence the degree of sustainable innovation in value chains?

Dr. Akhavan has already conducted research on the topic of Sustainable Sourcing under the main topic of Sustainable Supply Chain Management.

As part of the project on Sustainability-oriented Innovations along the Supply Chain, we are primarily investigating the effect of partnerships in cultivation and distribution innovations.