Closed-loop supply chain configuration and optimization

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In a forward supply chain, products are sent from suppliers to manufacturers and finally, to customers. In a reverse supply chain, some of the products are returned by customers. A closed-loop supply chain (CLSC) encompasses both forward and reverse supply chains. The goal of a CLSC (e.g. tire remanufacturing), is to gain economic and environmental values from both new and returned products. This program will pursue three primary areas of research in regards to CLSCs. First, this research is concerned with several sources of uncertainty within CLSCs, including the demand, return rate and quality of returned products. Our goal in this instance is to identify and analyze the different sources of uncertainty operating simultaneously in CLSC networks. Second, this research will consider how to minimize waste across CLSC networks, studying relevant environmental factors with a view to uncovering sustainable solutions. Third, this research will investigate the impact of Big Data on CLSC network configuration and optimization, given that large amounts of data are sometimes available within CLSC parameters.