As time goes on, the environmental impact of logistics is growing, and as we all know, the majority of the logistics sector is not well-known for its high level of sustainability, which some people may take for granted.
However, neglecting the footprint that goods transport leaves behind will backfire not only on logistics itself but on our whole plant. Climate change is an important topic that we should discuss as we prepare for the future, which inevitably must be sustainable.
How can green logistics help climate change?
Now how do logistics affect the environment? And how can we manage to lessen its effect? In this article, we're going to learn all about that.
What is the impact of Logistics on the climate change?
Logistics are considered by scientists to be one of the main sources of environmental pollution, and this is how logistics is affecting the environment.
· CO2 emissions from transport
One-fifth of all carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions worldwide are caused by transportation, Logistics accounts alone for about 8% of worldwide carbon emissions. And that CO2 doesn’t just disappear after it is released. It accumulates in the earth’s atmosphere which creates the "greenhouse effect" that simply heats the earth. Where oceans ocean temperatures will likely rise faster than air temperatures. This will result in powerful storms, including devastating hurricanes.
· Ocean pollution
From sinking of oil tankers to dumping waste in oceans. This type of pollution puts sea life in great danger, to the degree that some species will eventually go extinct.
· Noise pollution
Whether it was Road, sea and air, or transport create noises that not only could harm people but also wildlife, the airplane has an impact on the various bird species that reside close to airports small things that we don’t notice that affect the eco-system day by day.
· Waste
Many logistics procedures leave behind a lot of waste, like unwanted goods, old containers, and empty warehouses, to access packing materials. All of these are considered waste that consumes space on our planet, and some that are not disposed of properly pollute.
Now how can green logistics help climate change?
Green logistics, often known as eco-logistics is an act that aims to lessen the environmental impact of logistics operations while maintaining the highest standards of quality. It enables you to increase sales, reduce expenses, and improve the environment for future generations.
Finding an alternative to fuels
Finding new energy sources that are renewable, like biofuels, solar, and wind energy, in factories or transportation would make a huge impact on reducing the emissions of CO2.
Advanced Vehicles
Green Vehicles are the type of Vehicles that run entirely or partially on sustainable energy or use advanced vehicle technologies instead of fossil fuel.
Recycling
Green logistics encourages recycling, whether it be the reuse of existing containers for transport and storage or the recycling of discarded packaging materials.
Recycling is especially in the logistics field Recycling is especially in the logistics field. It helps companies to use their supplies and resources more sustainably.
Reverse logistics and sustainability
Reverse logistics (RL) is a strategic choice that has drawn a lot of interest from organizations due to its advantages for sustainable development and handling waste. In general, waste management aims to reduce waste in industrial production.
Reverse logistics puts a focus on recycling items and materials and guarantees that a business creates less waste as a result.
Repair, renovation, repackaging, and recycling, are examples of reverse logistics activities that can lessen the logistical impact on the environment.
There are many processes where reverse logistics helps the climate:
Return policy and procedure
Reselling returned products that are in good condition, after being evaluated by specialists requires a well-organized system to move the products smoothly from end users back to the warehouse or the manufacturer, where they can be resold. It is commonly the result of delivery refusal, poor sales, or other factors.
Remanufacturing or refurbishment
Reconditioning returned defective products to eliminate unnecessary waste will be also done by specials under different departments moving these products from end users back to the manufacturer to be recycled properly.
Reverse Packaging
It is when we reuse the packaging of returned products to reduce waste and save cost.
Repair and maintenance
It is the process of repairing a specific item instead of getting new ones, such as in the case of many electronics (laptops, for example), to make sure that we eliminate waste.
Goods execution
It is the process where specialists execute goods that have reached the end of their useful life, to provide them with proper environmental disposal.
Consumer behavior toward climate change’s effect on logistics
You'll find that more companies are adopting the green logistics tagline by employing more ecologically friendly and sustainable ways to reduce the environmental impact of logistics.
Consumers today are much more conscious of their actions, how they affect the carbon footprint, and what they can do to reduce it. They are more selective nowadays when choosing goods that were produced or delivered in methods that can be harmful to the environment.
Because of this, in 2023 we predict that more manufacturing and logistics industries will be adopting sustainable practices.
The role of (IMO) in facing climate change
On July 15, 2011, The International Maritime Organization issued the first set of global regulations that aimed at enhancing ship energy efficiency.
And then (IMO) has published an initial plan to help reduce the GHG emissions from ships. The plan outlines the IMO's commitment to put regulations in place to control GHG emissions from international shipping and phase them out as soon as possible.
It started implementing adaptation to the use of more sustainable fuels (low-sulfur marine fuel). Mandatory steps to lower greenhouse gas emissions have been adopted by the IMO's pollution prevention treaty (MARPOL).
Knowing how important adopting green logistics is and how employing sustainable solutions may increase logistics efficiency while reducing carbon footprint, working with ACS will enable you to accomplish your objectives while protecting the environment. Since it is a fundamental part of our goal.