Why we must move beyond ‘doing less harm’ to a regenerative economy

17 December 2024

This powerful statement by Professor Jo Mehaan during a lecture on responsible procurement left a lasting impression on me. It wasn’t just a warning—it was a call to action for all of us leading businesses in high-tech and global manufacturing.

For years, sustainability has focused on “doing less harm.” While this was a step forward, I believe it’s no longer enough. We need to go beyond minimizing impact and fully embrace a regenerative economy—one that actively restores and replenishes resources.

The Challenge of Complexity

I don’t underestimate the complexity of global (tail) supply chains. The machine builders we work with manage thousands of suppliers and millions of parts daily. Even the smallest disruption can halt production entirely.

Yet, despite this complexity, the status quo is no longer acceptable.

The Shift to Regenerative Supply Chains

For me personally—and for us at MAG45—the answer lies in transforming tail supply management from a reactive process into a proactive, regenerative one. This means moving away from disposable practices and instead embracing reuse, refurbishment or reconditioning, and renewable alternatives.

And here’s the good news: reused or refurbished parts can match the quality of new ones.

What does that look like in practice? Here are three real life examples of items that are implemented into supply chains of our clients:

1. Refurbished High-Tech Components

A refurbished drill can be reused up to four times, reducing environmental impact without compromising on quality. One client already reuses over 100,000 items annually, with plans to double that number.

2. Innovative Packaging Solutions

Cartons made of paper have been the standard for years, but it’s also possible to make grass-based cartons – they have a 50% lower carbon footprint than traditional cardboard.

3. Biodegradable Alternatives

In industries like healthcare, where disposable gloves are critical, switching to biodegradable options can drastically cut waste without sacrificing performance.

The Role of Leadership in Driving Change

Sustainability isn’t just an operational challenge—it’s a leadership mandate. CEOs must set the tone, prioritizing long-term environmental impact over short-term convenience.

At MAG45, we’ve adopted this philosophy, working toward becoming CO2-neutral by 2030 and challenging our suppliers to innovate alongside us. But more importantly, we collaborate closely with our clients to ensure they meet their ESG targets.

Whether it’s integrating renewable products, managing compliance, or scaling up refurbishment efforts, our goal is to make sustainability manageable and impactful in the supply chains we manage and service.

And the value becomes most visible in times of crisis. When disruption hits, companies with an experienced outsourcing partner don’t have to scramble, because a true partner thinks along, gets creative, and helps solve problems when supply chains become more complex and global. At MAG45, we even have people working directly on-site with customers to make sure disruptions are managed immediately. That level of problem-solving and commitment is something a traditional supplier is not equipped to provide.

A Call to Action: Build a Future-Ready Tail Supply Chain

The future of manufacturing depends on the steps we take today. By embedding sustainability into your tail supply chain, you won’t just reduce harm—you’ll create lasting value. And yes, when done right it contributes to a healthy commercial service offering. Regeneration isn’t about survival; it’s about thriving in a new era of responsible business.

I’m always eager to hear the thoughts and experiences of my peers. What are your views on integrating sustainability into complex supply chains? Please share your insights in the comments – I look forward to exchanging perspectives and experiences.