HOW EMERGING TECH IS IMPACTING SUPPLY CHAIN SUSTAINABILITY
Emerging technologies are already playing a vital role in enhancing supply chain sustainability .
Focusing on generative AI , Adam Spurdle , COO at Communisis Brand Deployment , explains : “ Gen AI allows organisations to have new visibility into each of their different processes through real-time monitoring and analysis , allowing for informed decision-making regarding sustainability objectives . This visibility allows companies to ensure the suppliers they are collaborating with across the supply chain are aligned with their sustainability goals .
“ It also streamlines resource allocation by optimising data analysis and identifying strategies like consolidating shipments or sourcing from suppliers with lower carbon footprints , which can then reduce fuel consumption and emissions .”
However , Jarrod McAdoo , Director of Product at spend management specialist Ivalua , insists firms must put in the necessary groundwork before they can expect to reap the benefits of such innovative tech .
He adds : “ Once organisations solidify their goals , transformation plans and have a foundation of accurate data from within their supply chains , procurement and supply chain teams will be able to harness Gen AI more effectively and at scale . That ’ s when we really expect to see the benefits .
“ These technologies will be game changers for many programmes and processes and sustainability will not be any different .”