On November 22, at the Singapore Sustainability Academy, Marina Chahboune, Founder of Closed Loop Fashion, participated in a dynamic panel discussion on “Circularity in Supply Chains” at AlterCOP 29. The session brought together industry leaders from diverse sectors to explore innovative solutions for a circular economy. The distinguished panel featured experts from textiles, packaging, aviation, and maritime industries, including Dazril Phua (COO of Nandina REM), Jean Goh (Managing Director of Xcel Industrial Supplies Pte Ltd), and Capt. Vineet Batura (COO of C-Loop) and was moderated by Karin Aue (Design Director at Chemistry).
At the panel discussion on circular supply chains, the following topics were covered:
- Defining Circular Supply Chains: Panelists shared insights into what “circular supply chains” mean within their respective sectors, explaining their roles and contributions to promoting circularity in their industries.
- Challenges in Transitioning: The discussion addressed the obstacles to moving from a linear “take-make-waste” model to a circular one, such as raising awareness, finding reliable partners, and reconciling conflicting goals.
- Scaling Circular Supply Chains: Panelists highlighted key drivers for scaling circularity, including regulations and policy frameworks, financing and incentives, reverse logistics, and technology, sharing examples of successful momentum-building efforts.
- Call to Action: The panel wrapped up with practical advice for companies in Singapore and Southeast Asia on how to start their circular supply chain journey.
Overall, the panel focused on the challenges, drivers, and actionable steps needed to accelerate circular supply chains. Especially the part on challenges was highlighted by all panelists as a limiting barrier for a fast transition. One of the key insights was that while R&D in materials, traceability and developments in recycling technologies are essential, the real game-changer lies in shifting mindsets. As our Founder, Marina Chahboune, aptly noted during the panel, industry stakeholders need to embrace collaborations, form new constellations of partnerships and reframe sustainability as a business opportunity in addition to the critical environmental imperative.
