CEF.UP – MaR Seminar/Webinar

Tuesday – April 23^rd , 2024 6:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m. | Room 631 | Online

“Driving Supply Chain Sustainability: The Crucial Role of Optimization in Achieving Sustainable Practices”

Ana Paula Póvoa – Instituto Superior Técnico, Universidade de Lisboa

Abstract:

“In today’s rapidly evolving scenery, the significance of sustainability has gained immense recognition, urging supply chains to embark on the journey towards building sustainable practices. Sustainable supply chains can be best described as complex networks of entities that oversee the management of products, encompassing suppliers, customers, and returns, while considering social, environmental, and economic objectives concurrently. However, the complexity of these systems poses a challenge in simultaneously addressing environmental and social goals alongside the traditional objective of profitability. To deal with these challenges, the development of decision-supporting tools for supply chain decision-makers is crucial. This talk focuses on the components of such tools, employing a systemic approach. Highlights the utilization of optimization-based models that effectively capture sustainability goals, considering the unique characteristics of supply chains. These tools enable the design and planning of sustainable supply chains, providing a solution that strikes a balance among economic, environmental, and social objectives. Furthermore, this talk identifies and discusses key perspectives and challenges associated with sustainable supply chains, which serve as catalysts for further research in the field. By delving into these aspects, we can foster a deeper understanding of the subject and inspire innovative approaches towards achieving sustainability within supply chains.”