We are all aware that the term “sustainable logistics” is not something new. But we can definitely say that it is no longer the same as it was 5 years ago. Nowadays, company logistics has become more dense and complex to manage. That is why it is a challenge to keep up with all the trends that are changing ever faster.
In fact, the benefits of sustainability could make or break a business. According to Nielsen research, 55% of consumers said they are happy to spend on products and services of this type. Especially if the company is committed to both social and environmental impact. So here is more information about this trend that will help you as a brand and the planet.
Pillars of green logistics
To achieve perfect harmony, which is what makes this type of logistics sustainable, three major core areas must go hand in hand: economic, social and environmental variables. These in turn have characteristics or premises that keep them standing.
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Economic dimension, this is based on maximizing the added value of the business. Reducing logistics costs can only be achieved with the following premises:
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The growth
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Efficiency
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The jobs
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Competitiveness
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Managing change
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Social dimension: companies should establish policies and management processes that protect the labor rights of their workers, according to the legislation of most countries. In addition, they should promote the use of ecological materials, renewable energy and care for the environment. To do this, it is important to consider:
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Security
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Health
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Access
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Equity
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Environmental dimension, this refers to the management of the permanent care of the environment and its ecosystems. Companies have the obligation to promote environmental culture among their suppliers, customers and workers. It is important that the following aspects are covered:
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Climate change
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Air quality
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Noise pollution
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Soil awareness and conservation
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Biodiversity
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Waste or debris
As long as these three bases or dimensions remain in place, sustainable logistics within your company will be a success. Now, let's see what other aspects can help make your company greener.
Process automation
Green logistics, if you use it as a competitive advantage, has to say goodbye to traditional logistics, because it is riddled with repetition. The same assignments are done over and over again, and if that loop weren't enough, they operate with low-tech manual methods. So it's not really a surprise that it is one of the current industries that consumes around 25% of global energy.
In fact, if you want to have a sustainable, greener business, you should work on automating your workflow as much as possible. The positive side is that new technologies for environmental care and automation save a lot of energy. So, they can improve productivity, shortening delivery times for deliveries or travel services.
Make a change of vehicles
Traditional logistics, which has been in use for years, is completely unviable without fossil fuels. But with sustainable logistics, the use of less polluting transport alternatives is becoming more common. Green transport is cleaner, quieter and more efficient than gas-powered vehicles, and work is underway to make them more affordable.
The options available are electric cars and the famous hybrids. Yes, we know that this requires investing in fleet renewal and that not all companies can afford this expense. But don't worry, that doesn't mean it's too late to make a difference. One option is to opt for government initiatives, or to apply for bank loans.
Have software and calculate the carbon footprint
Having an estimate of how much pollution is generated by logistics activities is the first step towards achieving sustainable goals. There are already computerized software programs on the market for calculating the carbon footprint of fleets, thus facilitating decision-making when planning transport routes, with the goal of making them more efficient.
Implementation of the classic 4Rs
For those who don't know, the 4Rs are: reduce, recycle, reuse and the last one, recover. Using this strategy optimizes the way in which resources are used in order to eliminate those that are not absolutely necessary. Thus reducing waste, reusing whenever possible and recovering so as not to end up wasting resources.
Market positioning
Companies that have already adopted green logistics policies are ahead of their competitors. Customers realize that these companies are conscious of the correct use and care of the environment. People are increasingly concerned about improving where they carry out their activities.
This competitiveness granted by the simple fact of changing your form is an advantage in the positioning of the transport market. In addition, it will make the production chain evolve and will help you to position yourself at the top with the biggest.
Green is the thing of the decade
We know that implementing everything we've told you is a huge task and can seem overwhelming. But if you break it down and apply it step by step, it's not impossible. It's time for you to apply solutions that reduce emissions, improve efficiency and switch to lower-impact technologies. The year is just beginning, so start with sustainable logistics as a new goal.
