Reverse Logistics:The Role of Industrial Engineering

Theresa J. Barker, Ph.D.Industrial and Systems EngineeringUniversity of WashingtonIIE Applied SolutionsMay 24, 2011

2

Introduction:

Researcher, University of Washington

Topic: product recovery

3 industry case studies

I.E. Magazine article April 2010

Theresa J. Barker, Ph.D.

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What is Reverse Logistics?

recycling, reuse, remanufacturing

“cradle-to-cradle” approach1

1 McDonough and Braungart, Cradle to Cradle: Remaking the Way We Make Things (2002)

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WHY do Reverse Logistics?

more information: Barker and Zabinsky, “Designing For Recovery”, Industrial Engineer (April 2010)

GovernmentMandate

EconomicValue

“GreenImage”

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Implementation strategies

design for recycling and reuse

reducing waste in production materials

implementing a product recovery network

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Why Industrial Engineers?

lean – reduce waste

systems design – comprehensive perspective

transportation and logistics focus

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Success Strategies for Organizations

small wins

leverage “lessons learned” (case studies, examples)

be proactive wherever possible

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Opportunities for I.E.s

focus on profitability + conservation

become familiar with sustainable design and product recovery strategies

extend existing I.E. tools to encompass sustainability

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Entry into the field

“green” technology still nascent

companies feel pressure to be “green”

IIE a good source for basic information

be prepared