Sustainable Supply Chain Operations and Technology from edX

Sustainable Supply Chain Operations and Technology - SSCP03 is designed to further your understanding of foundational Sustainability and Supply Chain knowledge acquired during the first two ISCEA SSCP01-02.

Technology and Tools must be utilized to foster innovation toward a circular Supply Chain Model. Technology such as robotics, drones, AI, and other tools will demonstrate the ability to make shifts in Supply Chain process to reduce financial and environmental waste and emissions. The course displays the importance of Sustainable transportation within core stages of the Supply Chain including Warehousing and Distribution. The course includes industry examples of current innovative initiatives and applications of zero waste and advanced distribution technologies to motivate professionals to implement technologies into existing or developing Supply Chains.

The course demonstrates that tools are assets that allow business processes to move toward a circular model as the economy shifts away from linear design. Supply chain designed with course principles included can protect the planet and future for sustained profit and process.

This course is one of the three ISCEA Sustainability Supply Chain courses offered on edX to prepare the leaners for the Globally Recognized, ISCEA Certified Sustainable Supply Chain Professional (CSSCP) Designation. To pursue the Official ISCEA CSSCP Certification, ISCEA requires the successful completion of the Official CSSCP Exam. The ISCEA certification can be acquired to advance Sustainable Supply Chain Management skills of professional in any industry or global market.

The completion of the three edX courses does not designate CSSCP, but satisfies the enforced prerequisite required for CSSCP Exam Registration.

ISCEA, the International Supply Chain Education Alliance was the first global organization certifying supply chain managers, and it remains the worldwide authoritative resource for Supply Chain career validation with thousands of certificate holders commanding top-tier salaries.

What's inside

Learning objectives

To utilize sustainable methods of transportation: including but not limited to robotics, drones, etc.
To learn sustainable manufacturing processes and connect innovative research & design to the manufacturing process
Reduce wastes and maximize efficiency throughout the manufacturing process
Properly execute warehousing that supports efficient flow of goods

Implement techniques that allow supply chains to function long term using proper inventory practices and warehousing models
Shift distribution to follow a model that utilizes renewables and does not compromise financial or environmental sustainability
The relationship between utilizing enabling tools that lead to supply chain flow and their connections to sustainability and overall circular design of the supply chain

To utilize sustainable methods of transportation: including but not limited to robotics, drones, etc.
To learn sustainable manufacturing processes and connect innovative research & design to the manufacturing process
Reduce wastes and maximize efficiency throughout the manufacturing process
Properly execute warehousing that supports efficient flow of goods
Implement techniques that allow supply chains to function long term using proper inventory practices and warehousing models
Shift distribution to follow a model that utilizes renewables and does not compromise financial or environmental sustainability
The relationship between utilizing enabling tools that lead to supply chain flow and their connections to sustainability and overall circular design of the supply chain

Good to know

Know what's good

, what to watch for

, and possible dealbreakers

Designed to further learners' knowledge of sustainability and supply chain management

Provides insights into the use of technology and tools to drive innovation towards a circular supply chain model

Demonstrates the importance of sustainable transportation within core stages of the supply chain, including warehousing and distribution

Emphasizes the significance of tools as assets for transitioning business processes towards a circular model

Prepares learners for the Globally Recognized, ISCEA Certified Sustainable Supply Chain Professional (CSSCP) Designation

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Sustainable Supply Chain Operations and Technology with these activities:

Create a glossary of supply chain terms

Show steps

Compiling a glossary will help you clarify and reinforce your understanding of key supply chain terminology.

Browse courses on Supply Chain Management

Show steps

Review course materials and identify important terms.
Use online resources or a dictionary to find definitions and explanations.
Create a digital or physical glossary for easy reference.

Review Logistics concepts

Show steps

Reviewing basic logistics concepts will provide a foundation for deeper learning in this course.

Browse courses on Logistics

Show steps

Review your notes from previous Logistics courses or equivalent experiences.
Brush up on key terms and concepts, such as inventory management, transportation, and warehousing.
Consider taking a practice quiz or completing a mock exam to assess your current knowledge level.

Review 'Sustainable Supply Chain Management' by Joel Makower

Show steps

This book provides a comprehensive overview of sustainable supply chain practices and will help you build a strong foundation for the course.

Show steps

Read the book and take notes on key concepts.
Summarize the main arguments and perspectives presented in the book.
Identify areas where the book aligns with and complements the course content.
Consider how the insights from the book can inform your own approach to supply chain management.

11 other activities

Expand to see all activities and additional details

Show all 14 activities

Compile an Annotated Bibliography for Sustainability Concepts

Show steps

Organizing and reviewing diverse perspectives on sustainability will help you build a solid foundation for the course.

Browse courses on Sustainability

Show steps

Search for peer-reviewed articles and books on sustainability concepts.
Read and summarize the key points of each source.
Create bibliographic entries following a consistent style guide.
Annotate each entry with your insights and reflections.
Organize the bibliography into logical categories.

Explore supply chain technology platforms

Show steps

Familiarizing yourself with supply chain technology platforms will enhance your understanding of how technology can improve supply chain efficiency.

Browse courses on Supply Chain Management

Show steps

Identify leading supply chain technology platforms.
Attend webinars or online tutorials on these platforms.
Explore their features and capabilities and evaluate their potential benefits for your supply chain.

Explore Case Studies of Sustainable Supply Chain Practices

Show steps

Analyzing real-world examples will provide valuable insights into the practical applications of sustainable supply chain principles.

Browse courses on Case Studies

Show steps

Identify reputable sources for case studies, such as industry reports or academic journals.
Select case studies that cover different industries and sustainability challenges.
Read and analyze the case studies, paying attention to the strategies and outcomes.
Summarize and present your key takeaways from each case study.
Discuss the implications of the case studies for your own supply chain management practices.

Solve supply chain case studies

Show steps

Working through supply chain case studies will improve your problem-solving skills and ability to apply course concepts to real-world situations.

Browse courses on Supply Chain Management

Show steps

Search for and identify relevant supply chain case studies.
Read the case study carefully and analyze the key issues and challenges.
Develop and evaluate alternative solutions, considering factors such as cost, efficiency, and sustainability.
Present your findings and recommendations to a group or write a report summarizing your analysis.

Discuss supply chain best practices with peers

Show steps

Engaging in peer discussions will expose you to diverse perspectives and broaden your understanding of supply chain best practices.

Browse courses on Supply Chain Management

Show steps

Join online forums or discussion groups related to supply chain.
Attend industry events or conferences where you can network with supply chain professionals.
Organize or participate in study groups with classmates to discuss course topics and share insights.

Participate in Peer-Led Discussions on Sustainable Supply Chain Challenges

Show steps

Engaging in discussions with fellow learners will broaden your perspectives and deepen your understanding of complex issues.

Browse courses on Supply Chain Management

Show steps

Join or start a study group with other learners in the course.
Identify a topic related to sustainable supply chain challenges.
Research and prepare talking points on the topic.
Facilitate a discussion with your group, encouraging diverse viewpoints.
Summarize the key insights and takeaways from the discussion.

Participate in a supply chain case competition

Show steps

Participating in a supply chain case competition will challenge you to apply your knowledge and skills in a competitive environment.

Browse courses on Supply Chain Management

Show steps

Identify and register for relevant supply chain case competitions.
Form a team or collaborate with other students.
Analyze the case, develop a solution, and prepare your presentation.
Present your solution to a panel of judges and receive feedback.

Develop an Infographic on Sustainable Transportation Practices

Show steps

Creating a visual representation of sustainable transportation practices will help you synthesize and communicate complex information effectively.

Show steps

Research different modes of sustainable transportation and their environmental benefits.
Gather data and statistics on the impact of transportation on sustainability.
Design an infographic that visually presents the key findings and insights.
Use clear and concise language to convey the information.
Share your infographic with the class or a wider audience.

Develop a sustainability plan for a supply chain

Show steps

Creating a sustainability plan will help you understand the principles and practices of sustainable supply chain management.

Browse courses on Sustainability

Show steps

Research sustainability best practices and industry standards.
Identify and assess the environmental and social impact of your supply chain.
Develop specific goals and objectives for sustainability improvement.
Design and implement a plan to achieve these goals, including strategies for reducing waste, emissions, and resource consumption.
Monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of your plan and make adjustments as needed.

Design a Sustainable Supply Chain Plan for a Specific Industry

Show steps

Developing a comprehensive plan will allow you to apply the principles learned in the course to a real-world context.

Browse courses on Supply Chain Design

Show steps

Choose an industry that you are familiar with or interested in.
Research the current sustainability challenges and opportunities in the industry.
Develop a plan that addresses these challenges and leverages opportunities for sustainability.
Include specific strategies for reducing environmental impact, improving efficiency, and promoting social responsibility.
Present your plan to the class for feedback and discussion.

Contribute to Open-Source Projects Related to Supply Chain Sustainability

Show steps

Engaging with open-source projects will allow you to apply your knowledge and contribute to the broader sustainability community.

Browse courses on Supply Chain Sustainability

Show steps

Identify open-source projects that focus on supply chain sustainability.
Review the project documentation and identify areas where you can contribute.
Communicate with the project maintainers and discuss your proposed contributions.
Develop and submit code or documentation improvements.
Monitor the project and respond to feedback or requests for further contributions.

Career center

Learners who complete Sustainable Supply Chain Operations and Technology will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Logistics Manager

Plan, organize, and direct the movement of goods and services from suppliers to customers. A Logistics Manager may also be responsible for managing inventory, transportation, and distribution. This course may be useful as it covers Sustainable Supply Chain Operations and Technology, which is highly relevant to the work of a Logistics Manager.

See salaries and explore the career path for Logistics Manager

Supply Chain Manager

Plan, organize, and direct the flow of goods and services from suppliers to customers. A Supply Chain Manager may also be responsible for managing inventory, transportation, and distribution. This course may be useful as it covers Sustainable Supply Chain Operations and Technology, which is highly relevant to the work of a Supply Chain Manager.

See salaries and explore the career path for Supply Chain Manager

Sustainability Manager

Plan, organize, and direct the environmental sustainability of an organization. A Sustainability Manager may also be responsible for developing and implementing sustainability policies and programs. This course may be useful as it focuses on Sustainable Supply Chain Operations and Technology, which is highly relevant to the work of a Sustainability Manager.

See salaries and explore the career path for Sustainability Manager

CSR Manager

Plan, organize, and direct the corporate social responsibility (CSR) of an organization. A CSR Manager may also be responsible for developing and implementing CSR policies and programs. This course may be useful as it focuses on Sustainable Supply Chain Operations and Technology, which is highly relevant to the work of a CSR Manager.

See salaries and explore the career path for CSR Manager

Inventory Manager

Plan, organize, and direct the flow of inventory through an organization. An Inventory Manager may also be responsible for managing inventory levels, forecasting demand, and replenishing stock. This course may be useful as it covers Sustainable Supply Chain Operations and Technology, which is highly relevant to the work of an Inventory Manager.

See salaries and explore the career path for Inventory Manager

Warehouse Manager

Plan, organize, and direct the activities of a warehouse. A Warehouse Manager may also be responsible for managing inventory and shipping and receiving operations. This course may be useful as it covers Sustainable Supply Chain Operations and Technology, which is highly relevant to the work of a Warehouse Manager.

See salaries and explore the career path for Warehouse Manager

Sustainability Analyst

Analyze and report on the environmental sustainability of an organization. A Sustainability Analyst may also develop and implement sustainability strategies and programs. This course may be useful as it focuses on Sustainable Supply Chain Operations and Technology, which is highly relevant to the work of a Sustainability Analyst.

See salaries and explore the career path for Sustainability Analyst

Environmental Consultant

Provide consulting services to businesses and governments on environmental issues. An Environmental Consultant may also conduct research and develop solutions to environmental problems. This course may be useful as it focuses on Sustainable Supply Chain Operations and Technology, which is highly relevant to the work of an Environmental Consultant.

See salaries and explore the career path for Environmental Consultant

Environmental Engineer

Design, construct, and operate systems to control pollution and protect the environment. An Environmental Engineer may also perform environmental assessments and audits, and develop environmental management plans. This course may be useful as it focuses on Sustainable Supply Chain Operations and Technology, which is highly relevant to the work of an Environmental Engineer.

See salaries and explore the career path for Environmental Engineer

Environmental Scientist

Conduct research and develop solutions to environmental problems. An Environmental Scientist may also provide consulting services to businesses and governments on environmental issues. This course may be useful as it focuses on Sustainable Supply Chain Operations and Technology, which is highly relevant to the work of an Environmental Scientist.

See salaries and explore the career path for Environmental Scientist

Operations Manager

Plan, direct, and coordinate the operations of an organization. An Operations Manager may oversee a variety of functions, including production, logistics, and customer service. This course may be useful as it covers Sustainable Supply Chain Operations and Technology, which are essential for Operations Managers to understand.

See salaries and explore the career path for Operations Manager

Transportation Planner

Plan and coordinate the movement of people and goods by road, rail, air, or water. A Transportation Planner may also be responsible for developing transportation policies and regulations. This course may be useful as it covers Sustainable methods of transportation, including Robotics and Drones.

See salaries and explore the career path for Transportation Planner

Transportation Manager

Plan, direct, or coordinate the operation of public or private transportation systems for the movement of people or goods. A Transportation Manager may oversee the physical distribution of products and materials from the point of origin to the point of consumption, coordinating with production, marketing, sales, and traffic departments. This course may be helpful as it discusses Sustainable methods of transportation, including Robotics and Drones.

See salaries and explore the career path for Transportation Manager

Industrial Engineer

Conduct time and motion studies to create efficient production methods and workplace layouts. An Industrial Engineer may also design production and distribution systems, as well as project plans to improve productivity and reduce costs. This course may be useful as it delves into Sustainable Manufacturing processes and how to connect innovative Research & Design to the Manufacturing Process.

See salaries and explore the career path for Industrial Engineer

Mechanical Engineer

Design, develop, build, and test mechanical and thermal devices, including tools, engines, and machines. A Mechanical Engineer may also work in product development, research, and consulting. This course may be helpful as it covers Sustainable Manufacturing processes, which a Mechanical Engineer could implement during product development.

See salaries and explore the career path for Mechanical Engineer