1. The birth of reverse logistics

Reverse logistics is a logistics activity that emerged a number of years ago. The concept of "integrated logistics support" (ILS) first introduced the notion of "reverse logistics". This approach, which is one of the most comprehensive in logistics management, includes in a single process all the material and information flows (inbound and outbound) required for the manufacture, distribution and return of a product throughout its life cycle.

The idea of reverse logistics first appeared in the early 1990s. The concept originated almost simultaneously in North America and Germany, but was driven by different concerns.

In the United States, reverse logistics was developed in response to a need and a potential market. Consumers, concerned about the environment, wanted to recycle end-of-life products, packaging and production waste... The regular...