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Green Logistics – It’s the Same Idea, Just A Cleaner Method

Green Logistics web

Estimated Reading Time – 3.5 Minutes

It’s time to face the truth – if we don’t take better care of our planet, it won’t take care of us for much longer. Global warming is no longer ‘the next generation’s problem’ – it’s happening now, and we need to stop it before it’s too late.

Logistics has been one of the biggest waste-producing industry out there. According to a report, the transport industry is on the list of top 5 sectors that produce the most human-induced pollution. Overall, the road transport sector produces an estimated 72 percent of the logistics industry’s carbon dioxide emissions.

The Industry Is Changing – Here’s How

Today the main objective of Logistics remains the same – to move things from point A to point B. But the intent is to do it better, in regard to emissions, carbon footprint etc. This move toward a greener way of transport is known as Green Logistics or Eco Logistics.

How the logistics industry can become eco-friendly:

  • Use environmentally friendly packaging materials that can be returned and reused. This will not only save the company money but will also reduce the amount of discarded packaging waste. A good example would be to use wooden pallets that can be returned and reused multiple times.
  • Aim to fit more into one box by arranging items in a particular way.
  • Instead of driving long distances to deliver small loads, wait until there is a considerable number of items to avoid wasting fuel.
  • Before setting off to deliver goods, determine the best (and fastest) route to each destination.
  • Make use of reverse logistics, the practice of refurbishing, recycling, and ultimately reselling returned products.
  • Choose the best transportation method. Believe it or not, air transportation causes the most environmental damage. The best options are rail and road transportation.

Tip: To make road travel even more eco-friendly, ensure that delivery vehicles are always clean. This increases fuel efficiency.

Why It’s A Great Idea to Go Green

If you’re still not convinced as to why eco-logistics is the best option, here are just a few of the benefits that businesses can enjoy.

  • Businesses that showcase their dedication to environmental preservation will not only see an increase in customer satisfaction and revenue but will also enjoy a competitive advantage.
  • Businesses will save money by eliminating the use of packaging material and reducing supply chain costs.
  • There will be more job opportunities due to an increase in the logistics process.
  • And finally, employees will be more productive knowing that they are doing their part to help save the environment.

 

These three brands are among a multitude of others that have already started going green –

“We utilize our expertise to make your logistics greener and more sustainable – giving you an edge over the competition. We can also help you find ways to apply circular-economy principles to eradicate waste and retain more of the value that goes into your products.” – DHL South Africa

Sustainability at Nike is more than a single-product principle. It’s an ethos we are embedding and scaling across our company and infusing into every brand, every category and every product from start to finish. In doing so, we are creating a culture of sustainability across the company.” – Nike

“Our products, services, processes and facilities are planned and operated to incorporate objectives and targets and are periodically reviewed to minimize to the extent practical the creation of waste, pollution and any adverse impact on employee health or the environment. Protection of health and the environment is a Company-wide responsibility of employees at all levels” – Ford

If you would like to help save our planet, become part of the exciting and ever-expanding supply chain industry with a fully accredited BCom in International Supply Chain Management from IMM graduate school. Don’t miss out! Applications for 2020 are still open! Enrol today:  https://imm.ac.za/online-application/