SCM730 Advances in Sustainable and Circular Supply Chain Management (Autumn 2026)

This course explores how sustainability and circular economy (CE) principles can be applied throughout global supply chains to create resilient, low-impact, and regenerative systems. Students develop a holistic understanding of how environmental, social, and economic sustainability dimensions intersect with circular practices across procurement, production, distribution, consumption, and end-of-life stages.

Through a combination of theory, applied analysis, digital tools, and case-based learning, students gain the knowledge and capabilities to design, implement, and evaluate sustainable and circular supply chain models. The course emphasizes systems thinking, innovation, and compliance with emerging sustainability regulations, preparing students to lead transitions toward circular and responsible business practices.

Knowledge

• Explain the principles of sustainability and circular economy, and their relevance to modern business.
• Describe how CE principles apply across the supply chain, procurement, production, distribution, use, and end-of-life.
• Identify key policy, regulatory, and governance frameworks shaping sustainable and circular supply chains.
• Understand impact assessment methodologies used to evaluate sustainability performance.

Skills

• Map, analyze, and redesign supply chains using sustainability and circularity frameworks.
• Apply assessment tools to measure environmental, social, and economic performance.
• Develop circular solutions by integrating digital technologies.
• Communicate sustainability and circular supply chain strategies effectively to diverse audiences.

Competence

• Integrate sustainability and circular economy principles into strategic and operational supply chain decisions.
• Lead cross-functional initiatives that drive sustainability and circular transformation.
• Apply global sustainability frameworks and reporting standards in professional practice.
• Promote systems thinking and responsible leadership for sustainable business development.

Lectures, workshops, group exercises and discussions

Recording policy

1. Lecture recordings will be made available only to students on the experience-based programme. Recordings will not be shared with campus (full-time) students.
2. Physical attendance is not compulsory. Campus students should nevertheless be aware that lectures are not recorded for them.

Part 1 – Individual engagement portfolio (reflective notes)

• Form of assessment: Portfolio assessment

• Proportion: 20%

• Duration: Entire semester; students write one reflective note per guest lecture/workshop, and the best four of six are submitted together near the end of the semester (via WISEflow)

• Grouping: Individual

• Grading scale: Letter (A–F)

• Support material: All aids permitted

Part 2 – Group project with oral presentation

• Form of assessment: Project assignment (home exam) with a final oral presentation

• Proportion: 80%

• Duration: A multi-week project during the semester; the written paper is submitted via WISEflow, with oral presentations near the end of the semester.

• Grouping: Groups of two to three students

• Grading scale: Letter (A–F)

• Support material: All aids permitted

The final grade is an aggregate of the two parts (20% + 80%), and both parts must be passed to pass the course