A Three Level Framework for Closed-Loop Supply Chain Management—Linking Society, Chain and Actor Level

Romy Morana,Stefan Seuring

doi:10.3390/su3040678

Abstract

Supply chain management and closed-loop supply chain management (CLSCM) have developed into established concepts in recent years. The related material cycles and product returns form an important part of all related processes with high potential for reducing environmental burden. The paper proposes a framework for (environmentally triggered) closed-loop supply chain management, spanning three different levels: the societal or governance, the chain and the actor level. Within each level, a set of activities or processes can be identified. Taken together, the levels allow a comprehensive analysis of a closed-loop supply chain system. This is illustrated building on two case studies in the textile and apparel industry, where closed-loop supply chains have been designed to take specific apparel products back. The case studies are analyzed against all three levels and allow exemplification of related challenges and interrelations among the three levels. The three levels contribute to the further comprehension of the multiple issues having to be taken into account for successfully implementing closed-loop supply chains.

Highlights

Approaches of inter-organizational sustainability management, sustainable supply chain management and closed-loop supply chain management received much increased attention in recent years
The apparel products are collected by GETEX and resold, either to second-hand shops in Germany or on international markets
ECOLOG and GETEX, this problem is to be avoided by collecting apparel products of a certain quality

Summary

Introduction

Approaches of inter-organizational sustainability management, sustainable supply chain management and closed-loop supply chain management received much increased attention in recent years. One common denominator is that a single actor (i.e., company) cannot solve related challenges on its own, so inter-organizational approaches are needed [1] This has triggered the development of a wide range of individual concepts and frameworks, where it is no surprise that quite recently efforts emerged for understanding the interaction between human beings and nature. On the other hand the concept is designed for private customers, who normally buy a minor number of pieces, usually a one off purchase of an outdoor jacket. In both cases the ECOLOG customers have the option of returning their used apparel product. The advantage for the single customer, in comparison to selling via a second-hand-shop is that they get the voucher immediately and do not have to wait for the respective piece of apparel being sold

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Conclusion