New research dedicated to sustainable and resilient supply chains

The University of Adelaide has announced the launch of the Centre for Sustainable Operations and Resilient Supply Chains (CSORSC). CSORSC will focus on accelerating the transformation of Australia’s supply chains to be more robust and adaptable, allowing a thriving future.

The new centre is led by Professor Kannan Govindan and Associate Professor Devika Kannan, supported by the University’s Institute for Sustainability, Energy and Resources (ISER), while being anchored in the Adelaide Business School under the Faculty of Arts, Business, Law and Economics.

“CSORSC will provide the know-how for industries and governments to transition to better and greener manufacturing and supply chains which will be more dependable while supporting our net-zero emissions ambitions and the goal of a truly circular economy,” Govindan said.

Supply chain resilience is a business’s ability to respond to operational disruptions while maintaining seamless product distribution. Studies suggest disruptions to supply chains are estimated to cost US$1.6 trillion globally in revenue growth opportunity on average each year.

The centre’s work draws upon engineering, management and computer science expertise to develop end-to-end value chain solutions that minimise environmental impact and maximise competitiveness.

“CSORSC will demonstrate the potential for big data and the digitisation of systems where real-time information will be used to smooth out the bumps of supply, demand and transportation,” Govindan said.

The use of product traceability along the supply chain will provide an opportunity for Australian companies to prove to consumers that green methods and fair practices have been adhered to at each stage. The centre also aims to extend capabilities into higher-value goods and services, and to support, build and expand activities in key industries like tourism, mining, agriculture, food and wine. It will also extend into sectors such as renewable energy, defence, space, and pharmaceuticals and medical products.

A study by the National Transport Commission found that improved access for heavy vehicles alone can deliver $7 billion in benefits through efficiencies.

“The centre will build on this kind of productivity, addressing the challenges faced by policymakers and businesses relating to the sustainable transition into modernised supply chains,” said Associate Professor Kannan. “The coordination of new industries and the supply of their products to markets requires the kind of multidisciplinary modelling and analysis that CSORSC will provide.”

CSORSC undertakes industry-focused applied research and consultancy focusing on regulatory, training, technology or knowledge gaps. It partners with government, industry, organisations and communities at a state, national and international level.

The centre will train graduate students, educate and upskill workers, and foster the careers of researchers who will push the possibilities for supply chain optimisation further.

CSORSC is located on the University’s North Terrace campus.

Image credit: iStock.com/BeyondImages