Overview

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Companies are facing pressures from governments, investors, and other stakeholders to become more sustainable. At the same time, customers are demanding more circular products. Companies are also expected to meet internal environmental, social, and governance (ESG) goals while remaining profitable. Innovative companies such as Siemens Digital Industries Software recognize these challenges and have partnered with the University of Colorado Boulder to create this course that equips you with the knowledge and skills to build more sustainable and resilient supply chains. In “Developing and Managing Sustainable Supply Chains”, which is the second course in the Sustainable and Resilient Operations and Supply Chains Specialization, you will explore the integration of sustainable practices throughout the supply chain, from raw material sourcing to end-of-life management, while understanding the environmental, social, and governance (ESG) implications of these operations. The course emphasizes cutting-edge technologies such as AI and digital twins to drive efficiency and sustainability, with dedicated modules on carbon footprint reduction, fleet electrification, and circular supply chains. Through real-world case studies, peer discussions, and practical applications, you will develop skills that align with corporate sustainability strategies and be able to contribute to a more sustainable global supply chain. This course was developed in collaboration with Siemens Digital Industries Software. Learners who complete and pass the course can receive an industry-recognized digital badge. This course can be taken for academic credit as part of CU Boulder’s Master of Engineering in Engineering Management (ME-EM) degree offered on the Coursera platform. The ME-EM is designed to help engineers, scientists, and technical professionals move into leadership and management roles in the engineering and technical sectors. With performance-based admissions and no application process, the ME-EM is ideal for individuals with a broad range of undergraduate education and/or professional experience. Learn more about the ME-EM program at https://www.coursera.org/degrees/me-engineering-management-boulder. e.g. This is primarily aimed at first- and second-year undergraduates interested in engineering or science, along with high school students and professionals with an interest in programming.

Syllabus

Introduction to Sustainable Supply Chain Management

Welcome to Developing and Managing Sustainable Supply Chains! This is the second course of the Sustainable and Resilient Operations and Supply Chains specialization. In this first module, you'll be introduced to the critical aspects of supply chain management with a focus on sustainability, transparency, and the integration of advanced technologies. You will explore how sustainable practices can be incorporated across the supply chain, from raw material sourcing to production, distribution, and end-of-life management. Emphasis is placed on understanding the environmental, social, and governance (ESG) impacts of supply chains, leveraging digital tools like AI and digital twins to enhance efficiency, transparency, and sustainability.

Sustainable Transportation, Warehousing, and Logistics

This module offers an exploration of sustainable logistics and supply chain management focusing on examining carbon footprints. By the end of this module, you will be able to identify direct and indirect emissions and evaluate their impacts on sustainability.

Sustainable Logistics

This module focuses on the role of sustainable practices in supply chain management, emphasizing the reduction of carbon footprints through strategies like fleet electrification. Through real-world case studies, quizzes, and peer discussions, you will explore how leading companies implement innovative approaches to reduce emissions and enhance supply chain sustainability. The module highlights practical applications of theoretical concepts, preparing you to analyze and propose effective strategies that align with corporate sustainability goals.

Circular Supply Chains

This module provides an exploration of circular supply chain management, focusing on the transition from traditional linear models to sustainable, circular approaches. You will examine key principles of the circular economy, such as minimizing waste, maximizing product reuse, and reducing reliance on virgin raw materials. Through real-world examples and case studies, you will learn how businesses can leverage collaboration, technology, and innovative strategies to integrate circularity into their supply chains.