Supply Chain Revolution?

?? Sustainability in supply chains isn't just about carbon tracking anymore—it's about creating systems where business, communities, and our planet ALL thrive together. After our powerful panel discussion at Manifest 2025, I've been reflecting on what truly transformative supply chain sustainability looks like. The big question isn't whether we should pursue sustainability, but HOW we scale these efforts while: ? Maintaining competitiveness ? Leveraging AI and emerging tech effectively ? Creating genuine community impact beyond environmental metrics I've captured the key insights from our discussion with Andrea Goeman (JAS Worldwide), Gene Seroka (Port of LA), and Todd Soller (Patagonia) in my latest blog post. What's YOUR biggest challenge in sustainable supply chain transformation? Is it measuring impact, integrating sustainability into core operations, or something else entirely? Read the full article here to join the conversation: https://lnkd.in/em42TMFd #SupplyChain #Sustainability #CircularEconomy

This International Women's Day feels different. If you're posting about "celebrating women" today but: - Have a board with less than 40% women - Haven't conducted a pay equity audit - Block employees from discussing salaries - Haven't implemented climate targets - Have roller back your DEI policies Then your celebration rings hollow. As I reflect on International Women's Day 2025, I can't help but notice the muted celebration in contrast to years past. The shadow of political regression and systematic attempts to roll back progress hangs heavy over us. The Inconvenient Connection? Women's rights and climate action are interconnected battles against the same resistance: those who profit from maintaining outdated power structures. The data speaks for itself: - Women still earn just 82 cents for every dollar earned by men - Women in supply chain leadership positions remain under 20% - Countries with higher gender equality have stronger climate policies - Women are 14x more likely to die in climate disasters than men ~> Why This Matters for Business When I speak to executives about supply chain resilience, I emphasize that diversity isn't just a moral imperative—it's a business necessity. Supply chains led by diverse teams navigate disruption more effectively and innovate faster. Full stop! Countless examples over decades of working in tech, supplychain, and sustainability. Countless examples of why diversity is necessary for innovation. Yet too many businesses treat both gender equity and sustainability as PR exercises rather than strategic imperatives. I'm tired of the performative posts today. I'm tired of companies changing their logos for 24 hours while maintaining pay gaps and 1952 working environments. The Path Forward? Women's rights are human rights. Climate rights are human rights. These aren't political statements—they're existential truths. And defending both, incorporating both as core to your business’s legacy is good for planet, good for the communities where you serve and operate, and good for your business. The supply chains we design today determine the world we inhabit tomorrow. Will they perpetuate exploitation of both women and natural resources? Or will they create equitable value distribution and regenerative systems? I choose the latter. The question is: which side of history will you and your organization be on? #AccelerateAction #IWD2025

“What gets measured gets managed—but what gets ignored becomes a crisis.” For decades, traditional economics framed environmental and social harms—negative externalities—as isolated costs to be corrected by policies like taxes or regulations. But this view misses the bigger picture. ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) isn’t just about managing external problems; it’s about embedding these principles into the very core of how businesses operate and make decisions. This shift is profound. Traditional approaches assume that challenges like pollution or resource depletion can be solved by assigning a cost. ESG, by contrast, recognizes that the world’s greatest challenges—climate change, inequality, governance failures—are deeply interconnected. Addressing them requires a systemic approach that doesn’t isolate issues but instead weaves them into the fabric of how companies function, especially across their supply chains. This is where ESG data becomes transformative. For many folks in my LinkedIn network, if you have a background in supply chain, procurement, or operations you’ve likely been doing great work in sustainability and work with ESG data all the time. The challenge is in many organizations the relevant ESG data underpinning how work gets done and how better decisions get made is NOT harmonized and connected by design (let alone automated). In today’s landscape, supply chains are more than operational networks—they’re ecosystems that expose the true impact of a business. ESG data provides the documented proof stakeholders demand. It transforms ambitious goals into measurable progress, offering transparency that builds trust and resilience. Companies that fail to provide this level of proof risk being seen as all talk, no action. Consider this: supply chains are the ultimate testing ground for ESG. Carbon emissions, human rights, labor equity—all of these intersect here. A carbon tax might address emissions on paper, but ESG takes it further, asking how climate risks disrupt entire value chains, destabilize infrastructure, or exacerbate inequities. It’s not just about managing costs; it’s about creating businesses that are adaptable, transparent, and ready for what’s next. Those that integrate ESG into their supply chains, backed by verifiable data, will be the ones to unlock new markets, foster trust, and create long-term value. The rest? They’ll be stuck reacting to crises that could have been avoided. In this new reality, ESG data is not a footnote to strategy—it is strategy. As stakeholders demand transparency, as risks multiply, and as the world moves toward an interconnected, data-driven economy, the question isn’t whether companies will adapt—it’s whether they’ll survive.

Sustainable Supply Chains: What's Trending in 2025? Sustainability, decarbonization, and optimization in supply chains is STILL a business priority. It's becoming the backbone of resilient, forward-thinking businesses—and 2025 is shaping up to be a pivotal year. From my perspective, here are some of the trends that are making waves: 1?? AI is transforming everything. Imagine reducing waste, optimizing logistics, and tracking carbon footprints—all in real time. It's not the future; it's happening now. 2?? Blockchain and Digital Product Passport = transparency. Want to know exactly where your product came from and how sustainable or circular it is? Blockchain is making that traceability and confidence possible (and it's as cool as it sounds). 3?? Digital twins are a game-changer. I've seen these in action, and let me tell you—they're amazing for modeling and testing scenarios before committing to interventions or costly changes. 4?? Beyond net zero: Companies are embracing regenerative practices. It's not just about doing less harm; it's about actively improving the planet. 5?? Smart packaging is getting smarter. Imagine packaging that tracks freshness and gives better PLM options. Yep, that's here. 6?? Autonomous logistics: Electric trucks and AI-driven route planning are cutting emissions and costs. Sustainability AND efficiency? Yes, please. 7?? Collaboration is key: Industries are teaming up on sustainability platforms. We can't solve global challenges alone—teamwork matters. 8?? Quantum computing is stepping up: It's tackling complex problems like emissions optimization and resource management. Responsible computing is still front of mind in scaling this technology. 9?? Real-time analytics are crucial: Leaders are demanding quick insights and actionable data. If you're not tracking your financial performance and sustainability progress in real time, you're behind. ?? AI is helping with supplier ESG management: Automating capacity building, assessments and creative financing saves time, improves speed to value, and makes procurement more sustainable. This is the stuff that gets me excited—because it's not just about tech. It's about rethinking how we do business in a way that works for people and the planet. ?? ?? So, what do you think? Are these trends showing up in your organization? Which of these has you most excited? ?? Dive deeper into all 10 trends here: https://lnkd.in/eAMnGWfd

What trends at WEF’s Davos are shaping transformative ideas for supply chain leaders? Staying ahead of these developments is essential for strategic planning and future-proofing operations. Here are the 9 most impactful trends from this year’s forum and their implications for supply chain management: 1?? AI Agents: The New Workforce AI has moved beyond automation, with agents now capable of sensing, learning, and acting autonomously. They’re transforming predictive maintenance, logistics, supplier management, and inventory forecasting. 2?? Digital Trust: The New Currency As supply chains digitize, trust is critical. From data security and ethical AI to transparency and accountability, digital trust builds the foundation for resilient operations. 3?? The Intelligent Age: Convergence of Technologies The integration of AI, IoT, clean energy, and quantum computing is enhancing visibility, sustainability, and optimization across supply chains. 4?? Bi-globalization: Navigating a Bipolar World The U.S.-China dynamics are reshaping global trade. Dual sourcing, regional networks, and geopolitical risk mitigation are key to thriving in this new normal. 5?? TIPS (Trade Impact Protection Systems): The New Protectionism Import taxes and tariffs are driving near-shoring and local supplier development to refocus domestic supply chains. 6?? Super-Aging Societies: Demographic Challenges Automation, ergonomic design, and multi-generational workforce strategies are essential as aging populations reshape labor dynamics. 7?? Talent Scarcity: Closing the Skills Gap From digital skills initiatives to innovative recruitment, addressing talent shortages is critical for future-ready supply chains. 8?? Advanced Nuclear: Energy Innovation Emerging nuclear technologies are driving carbon reductions, energy-efficient designs, and green logistics. 9?? Regional Resilience: Strengthening Local Networks Building robust, local supply chains enhances community engagement, risk mitigation, and long-term economic sustainability. What This Means for Supply Chain Leaders 1?? Embrace technological innovation while fostering digital trust 2?? Build flexible, resilient supply chain networks 3?? Focus on workforce development and automation 4?? Prioritize sustainability and regional growth 5?? Adapt to geopolitical shifts with agility The future of supply chain management is here. Are you ready to navigate these changes? Let’s discuss the trends shaping your operations and how we can prepare for this transformative era. #sustainability #supplychain #innovation

As I reflect on Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s legacy, I can’t help but think about how his vision of an "inescapable network of mutuality" resonates deeply with today's interconnected struggles for climate justice, gender equity, and racial justice. Deep values of equality and justice resonate far beyond the civil rights movement. His principles are deeply relevant to today’s fight for climate justice and sustainability, and I believe these issues are interconnected in ways we can no longer ignore. The climate crisis is not just an environmental issue—it’s a human issue. Marginalized communities often bear the brunt of environmental degradation, from extreme weather events to pollution and resource scarcity. Addressing these injustices means advocating for a future that is not only sustainable but also equitable and inclusive for all. To me, Dr. King’s dream reminds us of this simple truth: justice is universal. True sustainability isn’t just about reducing carbon footprints—it’s about building systems that uplift people while protecting the planet. In my latest blog, I explore: - How environmental injustice and social inequality are deeply connected. - The critical role businesses and supply chains can play in advancing equity and sustainability. - Why courageous, values-driven leadership is the key to driving meaningful change. The dream of justice evolves but remains rooted in dignity, respect, and opportunity for all. Today's environmental justice movement carries forward this legacy while embracing new understandings of how justice must be pursued in our interconnected world. As we face unprecedented environmental challenges, we must honor these connections in both vision and action. Let us advance with humility and determination, recognizing that our collective liberation depends on addressing climate justice, gender equity, and racial justice as interconnected struggles. In Dr. King's words, we remain "tied in a single garment of destiny" – one that now encompasses our shared journey toward a just and sustainable future. What do you think? How can we, as leaders, organizations, and individuals, bridge the gap between climate justice and social justice? I’d love to hear your thoughts. Read the full blog here: https://lnkd.in/e8aYGhuy ___________ ???? Like this???? Repost and spread the word #sustainability #supplychain #leadership

In the next 5 years, nearly 25% of all jobs will undergo radical transformation. Are we prepared? WEF’s Future of Jobs Report 2025 presents evidence of unprecedented workplace transformation ahead. The scale is significant: 22% of current jobs will transform by 2030, with 170M new roles emerging and 92M being displaced. This isn't merely change – it's a fundamental restructuring of how we work. Three critical forces are shaping this transformation: 1) AI's Transformative Impact: The data is clear: 86% of organizations anticipate AI reshaping their operations. Since 2022, AI investment has increased eightfold, driving demand for AI specialists, data analysts, and cybersecurity experts. Yet the most intriguing shift lies in task distribution: human-performed tasks will decrease from 47% to 33% by 2030. This raises a crucial strategic question: How do we architect human-AI collaboration to enhance rather than replace human capability? 2) Sustainability as a Strategic Driver: With 47% of organizations intensifying carbon reduction efforts and 41% adapting to climate challenges, this expertise has become a critical business capability. However, a significant skills gap persists – while green job postings increased 22% in 2023, only 12% of the workforce possesses these capabilities. This disconnect requires immediate strategic attention. 3) Supply Chain reEvolution: Global trade patterns are being reshaped by geopolitical fragmentation, with 1/3 of organizations citing this as a primary driver of transformation. Simultaneously, digital transformation is revolutionizing SCM through predictive modeling and carbon tracking. The projected creation of 11M jobs (offset by 9M displaced) underscores the urgency of strategic workforce planning. The data points to a clear conclusion: skill gaps represent a primary barrier to business transformation, cited by 63% of organizations. By 2030, 59% of workers will require significant reskilling, yet current pace suggest 11% will remain untrained. More concerning: 1.2B young people entering emerging economy workforces will compete for just 420M new positions. Where should you focus? 1. Design AI implementation strategies that prioritize augmentation over replacement 2. Develop comprehensive green skilling programs aligned with business objectives 3. Engineer resilient, inclusive supply chains that create value across all tiers 4. Implement equitable workforce development strategies that address demographic shifts The path forward requires intentional design of our technological and organizational systems. The question isn't whether transformation will occur, but whether we'll shape it to enhance human potential while driving business value. What strategic workforce initiatives are you prioritizing to address these challenges? ???? Like this???? Repost to help someone ? Follow Supply Chain Revolution? #supplychain #sustainability #technology

Sustainability and responsible supply chains have become the new corporate imperative. Against the backdrop of mounting regulations and transition to a new economy, the urgency for businesses to adapt to a rapidly changing world has never been more pronounced. Amidst this backdrop, Farri, Cervini, and Rosani, in their HBR article, "How Sustainability Efforts Fall Apart," delve into the paradox that while companies are setting ambitious sustainability goals, a chasm exists between these aspirations and their realization. This gap, as observed through the authors' experiences, often arises after initial successes, where sustainability programs hit a wall and fail to scale, thus jeopardizing long-term objectives. Interestingly, the authors expand that the crux of the problem lies within the organizations themselves, hidden under layers of outdated management practices. The four "hidden enemies" of sustainability are outlined as: 1) Structure and governance, which often silos sustainability efforts away from core business operations; 2) Processes and metrics, where traditional profit-driven decision-making criteria overlook sustainability; 3) Culture and leadership, which has not evolved to integrate sustainability at its core; 4) Methods and skills, where traditional business tools do not account for sustainability outcomes. To counter these challenges, the authors propose a transformative approach: 1) integrating sustainability into the organizational DNA through an organizational mesh 2) embedding it by design into every process, fostering a culture of co-creation and trust 3) embracing ecosystem thinking for strategic decision-making This guidance aims to overcome the internal blockers but also to enable companies to truly embed sustainability into their operations and ethos. It is clear that overcoming these hidden enemies requires concerted effort, innovative thinking, and a deep commitment to change. What stands out to me most is a call to action for leaders and organizations to not just set ambitious goals but to * fundamentally rethink * their approach to business, leadership, and innovation to make sustainability the cornerstone of their operations. The path to sustainability is tough with challenges, but it is also ripe with opportunity like any transformation. By acknowledging and addressing the internal barriers to sustainability, companies can unlock new avenues for growth, innovation, and resilience. Let's not allow our efforts to fall apart. How have you embraced the challenge? And if not, what’s holding you back? #sustainability #supplychain #leadership

In the intricate web of life, nature often holds the solutions to our most complex challenges. Recently, I explored how the mycelium network of mushrooms—a hidden underground web that sustains entire ecosystems—can inspire the way we design and manage modern supply chains. Just as mycelium connects and nourishes diverse species in a forest, our supply chains can thrive by embracing principles of zero waste, adaptability, and collaboration. By learning from nature’s best-kept secrets, we can build supply chains that are not only efficient but also sustainable and resilient. Curious about how these natural networks can reshape our approach to logistics and sustainability? Check out my latest insights: Nature’s Network: What Supply Chains Can Learn from Mushroom Mycelium ?? ?? https://lnkd.in/eHnSTZ4p Let’s reimagine the future of supply chains—one that mirrors the wisdom of the natural world. #SupplyChain #Sustainability #Innovation #CircularEconomy

This was, by far, one of my most fun podcasts I did back at PSC. Sheri R. Hinish and the Supply Chain Revolution? is a great listen if you haven't added it already to your podcast regular rotation. Have you considered the environmental and social impact of our fuzzy family members?