How can chemical engineers prioritize sustainability in the supply chain?

2 Apply green chemistry principles

The second step to prioritize sustainability in the supply chain is to apply the principles of green chemistry, which aim to reduce or eliminate the use and generation of hazardous substances in chemical processes. Green chemistry can help chemical engineers design safer and more efficient processes that minimize waste, energy use, and environmental damage. Some examples of green chemistry principles are: using catalysts instead of stoichiometric reagents, avoiding the use of solvents or choosing benign ones, designing for energy efficiency and renewable energy sources, and using biodegradable or recyclable materials.

3 Implement circular economy concepts

The third step to prioritize sustainability in the supply chain is to implement the concepts of circular economy, which seek to keep materials and products in use for as long as possible, and to recover and regenerate them at the end of their life cycle. Circular economy can help chemical engineers reduce the demand for virgin materials, extend the value of existing products, and create new business opportunities. Some examples of circular economy concepts are: designing for durability, repairability, and reusability, promoting product-service systems and sharing platforms, optimizing reverse logistics and waste management, and utilizing waste as a resource for new products.

4 Engage with stakeholders

The fourth step to prioritize sustainability in the supply chain is to engage with the stakeholders involved, such as suppliers, customers, regulators, communities, and NGOs. Stakeholder engagement can help chemical engineers understand the needs and expectations of different parties, identify potential risks and opportunities, and collaborate on solutions that benefit all. Some examples of stakeholder engagement are: conducting surveys and interviews, organizing workshops and forums, establishing partnerships and alliances, and reporting and communicating on sustainability performance and goals.

5 Innovate for sustainability

The fifth step to prioritize sustainability in the supply chain is to innovate for sustainability, which means developing new products, processes, technologies, and business models that address the environmental and social challenges of the supply chain. Innovation for sustainability can help chemical engineers create competitive advantages, enhance customer satisfaction, and contribute to the global sustainable development goals. Some examples of innovation for sustainability are: developing biobased or biodegradable polymers, creating smart sensors and digital platforms for supply chain optimization, adopting additive manufacturing or 3D printing, and exploring new markets and applications for sustainable products.

6 Learn and improve

The sixth and final step to prioritize sustainability in the supply chain is to learn and improve, which means monitoring and evaluating the outcomes of the previous steps, and applying the lessons learned to improve the sustainability performance and practices of the supply chain. Learning and improving can help chemical engineers adapt to the changing conditions and expectations of the supply chain, and to identify and address the gaps and challenges that may arise. Some examples of learning and improving are: collecting and analyzing data and indicators, conducting audits and reviews, implementing corrective and preventive actions, and sharing best practices and feedback.