ABSTRACT
This chapter explores issues that are, for many supply chains, becoming more important. These deal with the “return loop.” When the forward supply chain has delivered a product to an end-user, merchandise, for varying reasons, journeys back through the reverse or return supply chain. Returns or reverse flows also address issues of sustainability wherein some products must be disposed of in environmentally friendly ways. This is particularly true of products that degrade chemically. Currently, tires and technology products are examples of the types that use the return loop at the end of their usable life.
