Digital supply chain technologies and sustainability

Abstract

Digital supply chains employ many technologies, each influencing the environmental performance of the supply chain network to some degree. The technological ecosystem includes additive manufacturing (AM), artificial intelligence (AI), big data, blockchain, the internet of things (IoT) and robotics, among others. Technologies in digital supply chains have brought many opportunities and new challenges to sustainability in supply chain management. Sustainability in supply chains refers to adopting processes and technologies that minimize the environmental impact. Circular economy (CE) supports I4.0 and improves sustainability. Moreover, sustainability applies to the different activities of supply chains, from sourcing to last mile delivery, at various levels to minimize the environmental impact. This chapter provides a holistic view of technologies in digital supply chains and their contribution to environmental sustainability.