Global companies are adopting green or "sustainable" strategies in response to consumer demand. Many of these companies are also implementing production process improvement methods, such as lean manufacturing, throughout the value chain to increase efficiency and reduce costs.

The pressure to be more environmentally responsible and sustainable, and to "tighten the belt" to be more competitive in a price-sensitive market for goods were cited by supply chain professionals as "the biggest drivers for change in supply and demand change operations this year and beyond."

Enrique Medina, MS, CIH, president of one of our affiliates, Alliance Consulting International, explores lean manufacturing in the first of a two-part article, originally published in the company's Pulse Point newsletter.

To read the complete article, please click here.

when they could not provide either technical or geographical services requested by a client, with 91.3% saying they would market these services if they had the capabilities. Taking this feedback into account, the Inner Circle membership program will include access to our exclusive network of more 500 trusted affiliates in 44 countries.

Inner Circle members will enjoy the opportunity to access our affiliate database and receive personalized consultation in finding the appropriate specialist for any project. All affiliates have been evaluated for their high quality and professionalism prior to being included the Phylmar database. In addition to the affiliate database access, Inner Circle members also receive monthly best-practice newsletters in which we spotlight our members and share timely, relevant information specific to EHS consultants. As the Inner Circle program continues to roll out, we will be offering practice-enhancing networking events and webinars to our members throughout the year. Please stay tuned for more information on the Inner Circle or feel free to contact mkatchen@phylmar.com directly for further details.