Issues in sustainable supply management

Abstract

The increasing debate over globalized trading in the field of sustainable supply management (SSM) is a critical in business. This discipline compares the extended supply chain with more localized models of performance delivery. Logistics and purchasing were considered tactical functions within the firm, nowadays supply management (SM) has become a strategic activity which manages supplier relationships, reduces cost, enables network innovation and mitigates the impact on the natural environment. From practitioners and academics alike, supply chain management (SCM) is progressively accepted as one of the cornerstones of 21st century competitive advantage, low carbon and ethical approaches, and the challenge of implementing sustainable across all partners. This paper takes an overview of definitions, theories and models, relevant literature and examples drawn from earlier scholars' papers. Then, the paper also discusses specific features of the topic as well as existing research limitations; this should stimulate further research. Both researchers and practitioners in companies might find the reviews useful as the paper summaries major lines of research in this field.