sustainability. This radical departure from linear supply chains, entrenched in the take-make-dispose mindset, signals a transformative wave in business operations. Zero-waste logistics strategically tackles waste reduction across the entire supply chain, spanning from production through consumption and decisively sealing the loop on sustainability.
In recent years, sustainability has surged to the forefront of business priorities, marking a 292% increase since 2021, according to Gartner's CEO survey. As this awareness grows, businesses re-evaluate their supply chains, seeking greener alternatives in line with circular economy principles. Following the take-make-dispose model, traditional supply chains have proven inefficient and costly. This linear approach contributes to environmental degradation and is also identified as a critical driver of biodiversity loss. Recognising this, businesses are now focusing on closing the loop on sustainability, emphasising circular models that address the root cause of waste production.
The World Economic Forum defines the circular economy as 'restorative or regenerative by intention and design' to prevent waste generation. Circular supply chains operate on a closed-loop system, incorporating reuse, sharing, repair, refurbishment, remanufacturing, and recycling. A crucial component of this system is circular economy logistics, including reverse logistics, facilitating the circular flow of goods and connecting resources, products, and consumers.
One key component of zero-waste