In a world where sustainability is becoming increasingly crucial and environmental, social and governance (ESG) issues play a role in corporate strategies, sustainable logistics has emerged as an essential pillar for companies wishing to reduce their environmental impact while improving operational efficiency. It’s no wonder that implementing real and tangible practices in this regard has become an urgent need for the global refrigerated food chain.
But what exactly does sustainable logistics mean?
In short, sustainable logistics is an approach that seeks to reduce the environmental impact of logistics activities. This includes, for example, optimizing the use of resources, reducing CO2 emissions and minimizing waste. This concept recognizes the interconnected nature of storage chains and the importance of minimizing negative environmental impacts while maximizing value creation through sustainable practices.
In other words, sustainable logistics seeks not only to contribute to the preservation of the environment, but also to improve operational efficiency and reduce costs for companies in the sector, balancing profit and responsibility by adopting practices that consider the environmental and social implications of their activities in the cold chain.
However, the gap between rhetoric and practical implementation often persists, especially in more challenging areas such as refrigeration logistics. This is due to the fact that the need to reduce carbon emissions and minimize environmental impact is a crucial issue for building a sustainable cold chain.
A practical example of this commitment to sustainability is the recent initiative by Emergent Cold Latam, which, in the second half of 2024, became the first in Latin America to join the global “Move to -15ºC” movement, which aims to increase the standard storage temperature for frozen foods from -18°C to -15°C.
This change, although it may seem small, can yield huge results. This is because a rise of 3°C does not compromise food security, but it can drastically reduce carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions, with a mitigation potential of up to 17.7 million metric tons of CO2 per year. Therefore, this isn’t only an environmental decision, but also a smart choice for a more sustainable future.
The importance of sustainable logistics in the cold chain
In this context, the refrigerated logistics chain, responsible for storing and transporting perishable products under controlled temperatures, faces unique challenges. Therefore, adopting sustainable practices isn’t merely a trend, but a strategic necessity to face environmental challenges and meet the expectations of increasingly conscious and discerning consumers. And how can this be done? Here are some options:
Reducing CO2 emissions
One of the biggest environmental impacts of the cold chain is the emission of carbon dioxide (CO2) and other greenhouse gases (GHG).
The good news is that implementing sustainable practices, such as adjusting storage temperatures to efficient levels without compromising product safety, can dramatically reduce these emissions. Studies, such as the research entitled “The Three Degrees of Change”, coordinated by the Center for Sustainable Refrigeration at the International Institute of Refrigeration, show that a mere 3°C increase in storage temperature can result in the elimination of millions of metric tons of CO2 per year, without compromising product safety. This result demonstrates the transformative potential of these small changes.
In other words, what was once seen as a technical adjustment is now a catalyst for sustainability. It is therefore possible to predict that this transformation not only meets global expectations for sustainability and food safety, but could also represent unique opportunities for companies in the sector. This is because such a reduction would certainly also represent a reduction in supply chain costs.
Route Optimization
Route optimization is another key strategy in sustainable logistics. Using advanced transportation management technologies, companies can plan more efficient routes that reduce travel time and fuel consumption. This not only lowers carbon emissions but also reduces operating costs. Adopting smart routing based on real-time data and optimization algorithms can ensure that transport vehicles follow the shortest and least congested routes, increasing efficiency and reducing environmental impact.
Reverse logistics and sustainable packaging
Another important strategy is reverse logistics, which involves returning products and materials to their point of origin for recycling, reuse or proper disposal. This is fundamental to minimizing waste and promote sustainability in the cold chain. Moreover, the use of sustainable packaging, such as biodegradable or recyclable packaging, can also significantly reduce the amount of plastic waste. Thus, sustainable packaging not only contributes to preserving the environment, but also improves the company’s image in the eyes of increasingly conscious and discerning consumers.
Environmental criteria for selecting suppliers
Companies that adopt strict environmental criteria when choosing their partners, ensure that the entire supply chain contributes to reducing environmental impact. Therefore, selecting suppliers that follow sustainable practices is essential for effective sustainable logistics, as it opts for partners that use clean technologies, operate with energy efficiency and follow strict environmental standards.
Benefits of sustainable logistics
Whether you agree that there’s a climate change crisis or not, there is no doubt that sustainability has become an important aspect for businesses and that everyone plays an essential role in adopting sustainable practices. But what, in fact, are the benefits of sustainable logistics for cold chain companies? Numerous.
Firstly, there’s a significant reduction in operating costs. Energy efficiency and process optimization result in lower resource consumption, which literally translates into financial savings. Moreover, companies that adopt sustainable practices tend to improve their corporate image, attracting consumers who value environmental responsibility. This can lead, among other things, to customer loyalty and the strengthening of the brand in the market.
With this in mind, several companies have implemented sustainable logistics practices with great success. Emergent Cold LatAm, for example, has invested in advanced technologies to optimize its operations and reduce its environmental impact, making a significant contribution to global sustainability and food safety, as it has done since its inception.
The secret to sustainable refrigeration logistics lies not only in rhetorical commitments, but in actually carrying out these commitments, which is why more and more companies in the sector are seeking changes to create a better tomorrow for all parties involved.
Conclusion: the future of sustainable cold chain logistics
As mentioned above, sustainable logistics is no longer an option, but an imperative for companies wishing to remain competitive and responsible. With the growing demand for responsible environmental practices, companies that adopt these strategies will be better positioned to face future challenges. The cold chain, in particular, has great potential to benefit from these practices, promoting a greener, more efficient and, not least, a future that is more profitable.


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