Circular supply chains have begun to take over linear supply chains as the world comes to a head with global warming and depleted raw materials.
As a trucker, you’re a vital player in global supply chains. Therefore, you must understand everything there is to know about circular supply chains and how they impact your way of life.
What is the Circular Supply Chain?
The circular supply chain takes used materials and converts them back into usable products.
In other words, recycling empty aluminum cans back into usable aluminum cans is an example of a circular supply chain. As you can see, the supply chain becomes infinite as long as a material can continue to be used via recycling.
How is the Circular Supply Chain Different From The Current (Linear) Supply Chain?
Currently, the vast majority of the world operates under a linear supply chain.
Ultimately, products are produced, consumed, and, ultimately, tossed into the garbage bin. As you can see, most of the garbage isn’t recycled, meaning the life of these materials ends at the dump.
Overall, linear supply chains are harmful to the environment because they do not rely on recycling. Below, we’ll take a brief look at the defining characteristics of each supply chain.
Linear Supply Chain
- Does not rely on recycling
- Does not convert used materials into new products
- Does not boost the global supply chain
- Depletes raw materials
- Increases greenhouse gas products
Circular Supply Chain
- Relies on recycling
- Converts old products into new and usable products
- Boosts the global supply chain (increases the number of jobs)
- Does not deplete raw materials
- Reduces greenhouse gasses
Ultimately, the linear supply chain style is quickly becoming a relic of the past.
The old days of producing, consuming, and throwing away are practically over. As we observe the reality of climate change, it’s clear that circular supply chains are here to replace the old supply chain methods.
Although there is fear of change, the trucking industry is slated for a boost as more brands opt for a circular supply chain. From the increased need for truckers to more trucking routes, the circular supply chain is an exciting frontier for truckers and the overall trucking industry.
Why is the Circular Supply Chain Important for Truckers?
As a trucker, your job relies on the supply chain.
However, not all supply chains are created equal. In this case, circular supply chains improve trucker job security because they work against climate change.
Alternatively, the linear supply chain is detrimental to the environment, and current rules and regulations are tightening their grip to curb widespread greenhouse gas emissions.
As it stands, the trucking industry understands that it must become greener to flourish. Not only for employees under a trucking company but the world at large as the planet experiences increased heat, drought, and natural disasters.
Therefore, the circular supply chain reduces strain on the environment, thus allowing the trucking industry to flourish.
