Green logistics is, no doubt, one of the principal trends in the logistics and distribution sector, especially with the growing demand for more sustainable practices.
In a world that is ever more aware, adopting solutions that reduce the environmental impacts has become a competitive differential.
At Emergent Cold LatAm, we are committed in transforming these environmental challenges into opportunities, affording more efficient and responsible logistics solutions for companies dealing with perishable foods.
Find out more about this matter in this article!
What does green logistics mean?
Green logistics is an approach focused on reducing the environmental impacts at all stages of the supply chain.
This includes the use of more efficient equipment and processes, the optimization of the transport routes, the responsible use of the resources and the reduction of waste. The idea is to promote more sustainable and smarter management.
What is the importance of green logistics?
Green logistics is not just a trend, it is strategic necessity.
The commitment to sustainability is not just a trend to a growing demand from consumers and companies seeking more responsible practices, but also contributes to a healthier future for everyone.
Investing in responsible logistics guarantees that your company is not only aligned with the expectations of the market, but is also more efficient, economizing resources and promoting a positive impact on the environment.
Now, let’s find out more about the pillars of sustainable logistics:
Reduction of CO₂ emissions
One of the largest environmental impacts in the cold chain, for example, is the emission of carbon dioxide (CO₂) and other greenhouse gases. However, small changes can generate large results.
Adjusting the storage temperatures to more efficient levels, for example, can reduce CO2 emissions drastically without compromising the safety of the products. There is now an important movement discussing possible changes to the frozen storage temperature, with the participation of large companies involved in the cold chain. Emergent Cold LatAm was the first company in Latin America to take part in this discussion.
EDGE Certifications
The EDGE certifications (Excellence in Design for Greater Efficiencies) offer a way to implement sustainable practices without losing economic feasibility.
With rigorous demands for energy efficiency, use of water and materials, this certification helps companies manage their natural resources better and promote a more efficient and sustainable environment economically.
Optimization of Routes
With the use of advanced transport management technologies, it is possible to plan shorter journeys, which can avoid traffic jams and reduce fuel consumption. This adjustment not only reduces the carbon emissions but also results in lower operational costs.
By using data in real time and optimization algorithms, companies can guarantee the transport vehicles follow the most efficient route, increasing the productivity and reducing the environmental impact of the logistics operations.
Reverse logistics and sustainable packaging
The use of biodegradable or recyclable packaging significantly reduces the volume of plastic waste. This fact not only contributes to the environment, but also improves the image of the company, as consumers become ever more demanding and aware in relation to environmental questions.
To get an idea of this demand, the Kantar Sustainability Sector Index for 2023 showed that more than half of the population stops consuming products of brands not committed to sustainability.
Choice of suppliers following sustainable practices
Working with partners who share the commitment to environmental preservation and adopt green practices, such as the use of clean technologies and the efficient management of resources, contributes to the reduction of environmental impact of the whole operation.
Furthermore, by opting for more aware suppliers, companies strengthen their environmental responsibility and add value to their image, winning the trust of consumers and stakeholders.
Principal challenges for implementing green logistics
Implementing sustainable logistics may present some challenges, principally regarding the initial cost of adapting the operations.
The use of route optimization systems, for example, requires much investment. For this reason many companies handling perishable foods use our outsourced logistics services.
Furthermore, the cultural change within companies and the alignment with suppliers sharing the same sustainable values can also be obstacles.
However, we know the long term benefits make this investment worthwhile, as exemplified by the reduction of operational expenses and the contribution to a greener future.
Find out about our integrated logistics solutions
At Emergent Cold LatAm, we are always ready to support your company in the transition to greener and more efficient practices. With our integrated logistics solutions, we are able to optimize each stage of the supply chain, reducing environmental impacts and guarantee greater efficiency.
We are committed to provide logistics solutions that meet your needs, without giving up environmental responsibility. Among our green logistics services, we can highlight the following:
- precise programming of stock replacement — we plan the resupply in an efficient manner so that picking operators are never without product. This avoids stock excesses and guarantees that products are moved in accordance with real demand, resulting in less waste and better use of resources;
- maximum use of pallets in picking — maximizing the use of pallets to optimize the space in the transport vehicles is fundamental to reducing the number of trips necessary, thus reducing the emission of pollutants and fuel consumption;
- stock management by validity — we ensure rigorous control of products with the shortest shelf life, which allows us to avoid waste, as well as guaranteeing that the products delivered to the clients are always within the requirements of freshness and quality;
- efficient loading of trucks — we organize the loading of the trucks in accordance with the routes and the capacity of the vehicles, promoting safety, efficiency in transport and the reduction of trips. This care promotes a reduction in fuel consumption and lower emissions of polluting gases;
- cross-docking to reduce the time for distribution of products — our cross-docking service helps reduce operational costs. The products spend less time in the distribution chain, reducing costs on energy and space, which of course also benefits our clients directly.
