The second Global Sustainability Supply Chain Student Competition, held from September to December 2024, attracted 84 teams from 20 countries and regions to tackle some of the most pressing sustainability challenges in global supply chains. Among many exceptional teams, Team Syncelior from the Ningbo China Institute for Supply Chain Innovation (NISCI) stood out, securing third place in the Asia-Pacific region.
The competition is organized by the International Federation of Freight Forwarders Associations (FIATA), the Global Supply Chain Classroom, and the International Center for Transport Diplomacy, with support from the United Nations Group of Friends of Sustainable Transport. It is a significant platform for students to develop practical solutions for sustainability challenges, with global impact.
Team Syncelior, guided by Prof. Pascal Wolff, presented solutions addressing the pressing challenge of container congestion in Africa. The team’s ability to incorporate cutting-edge technology, such as AI, into their solutions impressed the judges and earned them this prestigious award.
In line with these global efforts, the competition also serves as a powerful tool for fostering collaboration between developed and developing countries. As China and the United States account for nearly 40 percent of global carbon emissions, the competition emphasized the need for cross-national cooperation. Jay Guo, the dean of NISCI, highlighted the importance of such events for youth, saying, “This competition offers young people a great practical opportunity to combine theory with real-world applications in solving global problems.”
As the competition continues to grow, it stands as a testament to the role of education in shaping the next generation of leaders in logistics and supply chain management.