![\"\"](\"http:\/\/www.justmeans.com\/editorial\/wp-content\/uploads\/2010\/08\/walmart-green.jpg\" "\\"Green")
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Wal-Mart has made a strong\u00a0commitment\u00a0to build a more sustainable global supply chain, starting with China. In 2008, Wal-Mart<\/a>\u00a0placed environmental requirements on its Chinese suppliers (source<\/a>). Recently, Wal-Mart announced that it will fund research to develop sustainable businesses in China, and work with suppliers to “increase the standards of its sourcing and product design” (source<\/a>).<\/p>\n Following a broad cost leadership strategy has already made Wal-Mart’s operations around the world largely successful. Why does having a sustainable supply chain matter?<\/p>\n Supply chain management is critical to a business’ success, especially for ones operating on a global scale like Wal-Mart.\u00a0Common supply chain challenges are cost control, risk management and supplier relationships,\u00a0which can really affect the bottom line (source<\/a>). Now,\u00a0supply chain sustainability has become a competitive advantage. China faces ever-mounting criticism for its harmful\u00a0environmental\u00a0and social practices so building a more sustainable chain first in China is a smart step. I can see many benefits from this strategy. Wal-Mart will be able to generate new sources of revenue from innovating to create “greener” products. Increasing energy efficiency, and\u00a0working with suppliers to cut down wastes will reduce costs. Wal-Mart’s business model and operations will be improved, allowing for better risk management. Brand value and shareholder trust will increase. Ultimately, a sustainable\u00a0supply\u00a0chain\u00a0will continue Wal-Mart’s success in the global market.<\/p>\n Offical Press Release and Video from Wal-Mart:<\/p>\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/blogs.ubc.ca\/moniquewong\/files\/2012\/03\/diamond-green-supply-chain-framework.jpg\" "\\"Green")
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