Sustainable Development in Logistics and Supply Chains – Time Matters

Sustainable Development in Logistics and Supply Chains – Time Matters

Rethinking logistics for a circular, resilient and competitive Europe

Circular Week 2026 | Online Expert Session

27^th of October

Background

Logistics and supply chains are undergoing one of the most profound transformations in decades. The pressure to decarbonise transport, increase resource efficiency, improve resilience and comply with new European regulations is fundamentally changing how goods are produced, transported, stored and returned.

At the same time, changing consumer expectations - particularly the demand for ever faster deliveries—are creating new environmental and economic challenges. The future of logistics is no longer measured solely by speed, but by its ability to balance efficiency, resilience, circularity and sustainability.

This session will bring together leading experts from academia, business and the logistics sector to discuss how circular economy principles can reshape supply chains while maintaining competitiveness and delivering value for businesses and consumers.

Key discussion topics:

• The future of sustainable and circular supply chains

• Decarbonisation of logistics and transport

• Reverse logistics as a cornerstone of the circular economy

• Consumer expectations vs. environmental responsibility – does delivery speed always matter?

• Digitalisation, AI and data-driven logistics

• Recommerce, repair and product life extension

• Cross-sector collaboration for resilient supply chains

• Business models supporting circular logistics

Invited Speakers:

Moderator: Paweł Oksanowicz, Head of Odpowiedzialny e-Commerce / ESG Think Thank, Izba Gospodarki Elektronicznej/ e-Izba

Speakers:

• Agata Horzela, GS1 Polska

• Bärbel Krauss, Zufall Logistik Group

• Yanying Li, Head of Programmes and Knowledge Management, ALICE Alliance for Logistics Innovation through Collaboration in Europe

• Arletta Jurkiewicz, Member of the Board MCKB SA, Member of the Board LODZistics - członkini Zarządu Klastra - LODZISTICS - Logistics Business Network of Central Poland

• Piotr Sosnowski, PhD, assistant professor at the Department of Logistics at the Faculty of Management at the University of Lodz, Member of the LODZISTICS Cluster Council 

Why this session?

The transition towards a circular economy requires logistics systems that are not only faster and more efficient but also smarter, cleaner and capable of keeping products and materials in circulation for as long as possible.

By bringing together logistics providers, retailers, digital platforms, policymakers and researchers, this session will showcase practical solutions and innovative business models that demonstrate how sustainability can become a competitive advantage throughout the entire value chain.

Format: Online expert discussion (90–120 minutes)