Leveraging Technologies for Circular Supply Chain of Plastics

Circularity is seen as the solution to sustainability. Companies can no longer treat sustainability as a form of corporate social responsibility. The implementation of a more stringent regulatory framework has made sustainability into one of grave importance for business survival. A closed loop manufacturing process to ensure a circular supply chain is needed. This could be driven through digitalisation. Key digital technologies have revolutionised the plastic industry.  Operational statistics becomes accessible through this digital transformation. The streamlining of process and training are simplified through data analytics. Also, boundaries in manufacturing are exceeded with incorporation of industrial robots and advanced manufacturing technologies, improving efficiency and throughput. Collaboration between businesses is becoming a common sight to drive sustainability. 

Image taken from SIPMM: https://publication.sipmm.edu.sg/integrating-ai-iot-effective-supply-chain/ 

Digital Manufacturing Technology 

Research and Innovation has always been one of the main driving forces that ensures the competitiveness of any business. Emerging digital technologies such Internet of Things (IoT), artificial intelligence (AI), virtual and augmented reality (VR & AR) have revolutionised manufacturing into a digital one. The use of such technologies would eliminate the issue of ageing workforce and minimise production downtime. Also, predictive outcomes can be achieved through data analytics, this allows continuous improvement to be utilised in every stage of the supply chain. Technology usage forms the main part of Industry 4.0. However, the lack of societal and environmental considerations pushed for another round of industrial evolution. Industry 5.0 focuses on the key principles of environment, social, and technology. This transition is critical in driving plastic circular economy. Furthermore, active process monitoring can be implemented with optimized resource management. Eventually, this will promote transparency and sustainability across the whole supply chain network.  

Image taken from https://unsplash.com/photos/the-plant-of-the-automotive-industry-shop-for-the-production-and-assembly-of-machines-NDv3QO5QQvI 

Automation Technology  

Smart sensors, computer interface and machineries have been around since the turn of the 20^th century. IoT technology combines a mixture of smart sensors, cloud computing, etc. to facilitate the data exchange between interfaces within the existing internet framework. With the installation of such electronic components, machine learning for data collection is made possible for analysis. Such data could be utilised in logistics and purchasing to optimise the supply chain. Real-time monitoring of the complete process flow is realised from the incoming raw materials to outgoing finished goods. IoT in logistics and purchasing allows for streamlining of processes, waste reduction and improved efficiency. The concept of the Factory of the Future (FoF) can simplify plastic production through Industrial robots and conveyor belts installed on the production floor. Such involvement of high-tech, heavy lifting mechanisms allows for continuous movement of raw materials and goods, reducing the reliance on human capital. In turn, it will lead to an increase in profitability and reduction in downtime. Reduced human intervention in handling can be achieved with on-site quality control measures. This speeds up checks and release of the final products for logistical arrangement.