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African Ports Chart Course Toward Net-Zero Shipping

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African Ports Chart Course Toward Net-Zero Shipping

African nations are taking decisive steps to accelerate the continent’s green shipping transformation, aligning with global efforts to reduce maritime emissions. On February 6-7, over 200 delegates from 35 countries gathered in Mombasa, Kenya, for a workshop focused on implementing the International Maritime Organization’s (IMO) Revised Strategy for the Reduction of GHG Emissions from Ships (IMO GHG Strategy).

Read also: Navigating the Evolving Landscape of EU Shipping Regulations

Organized by the IMO in collaboration with Kenya’s Ministry of Mining, Blue Economy, and Maritime Affairs, and the Danish Maritime Authority, the event emphasized actionable strategies for achieving net-zero emissions.

IMO Secretary-General Arsenio Dominguez highlighted the need for immediate, coordinated action: “The IMO’s climate ambition is clear. The focus now should be on action and implementation, and IMO stands ready to support African Member States in their efforts.”

Delegates proposed several initiatives to advance green shipping across the continent:

  • Accelerate ratification and implementation of MARPOL Annex VI, regulating ship emissions.
  • Develop and expand National Action Plans for GHG reduction.
  • Promote sustainable port development.
  • Boost production and availability of alternative fuels.
  • Foster green marine employment and investment opportunities.
  • Enhance seafarer training for green shipping competencies.

Hon. Hassan Ali Joho, Kenya’s Cabinet Secretary for Mining, Blue Economy, and Maritime Affairs, stressed Africa’s pivotal role in the global green transition: “Our ports, shipping routes, and maritime industries are integral to global trade and must evolve in alignment with the net-zero emissions target by 2050. By doing so, we can create green jobs, attract investments, and build resilient economies while addressing the pressing challenges of climate change.”

Highlighting regional progress, Comorian officials successfully assessed the Port of Mutsamudu on Anjouan in October 2024, marking a milestone in partnership with the IMO to advance sustainable maritime practices.

global trade lithium

Lithium Suppliers Negotiate Tighter Terms Amid Price Stability Hopes

As the battery industry’s demand dynamics shift, buyers and sellers of lithium are engaged in crucial annual supply discussions for 2025. Producers are aiming to secure better terms following a challenging year for this essential battery component. More details on this ongoing negotiation can be found here.

Read also: Arkansas could be the Future of US Lithium Production

Although lithium prices are on track for a second consecutive yearly decline, the steep reduction experienced earlier seems to have reached its nadir. IndexBox data reveals that the export value of lithium carbonate from China stands at USD 518.3 million in 2023, while imports significantly outweigh exports at USD 6.3 billion.

The ongoing negotiations, which involve major customers from the cathode, battery, and electric vehicle sectors, are being driven by a desire to limit the discounts previously extended to battery supply-chain customers. This strategic pivot seeks to align with the modest improvement anticipated in market conditions over the coming year. Current deals are being debated at discounts ranging from zero to 2% off a spot price index, a stark change from previous reductions of 5% to 10%.

China remains a pivotal market player, accounting for the largest portion of global lithium consumption. The top export destinations for Chinese lithium carbonate include South Korea (USD 273.8 million), Japan (USD 161.3 million), and Germany (USD 32.2 million). Conversely, China predominantly imports lithium carbonate from Chile (USD 5.8 billion) and Argentina (USD 478.6 million), illustrating its crucial role in the global supply chain.

This negotiation phase marks a significant shift from the fixed-price contracts of the past, as the sector adapts to the volatility synonymous with the EV era. Battery manufacturers now navigate fluctuating prices using annual agreements, paralleling practices seen in metals like copper, and leveraging terms that include premiums or discounts relative to third-party spot price indices.

Source: IndexBox Market Intelligence Platform  

global trade terminals

E-Bikes in Terminals: A Step Toward Greener Logistics, but at What Cost?

As the push to decarbonize ports and terminals accelerates, interest is growing in adopting battery-powered e-bikes, e-scooters, and e-motorbikes as alternatives to traditional diesel-powered vehicles. While these electric vehicles offer a cheaper, cleaner option, cargo handling insurance specialist TT Club warns that their integration into logistics facilities presents significant safety and operational risks.

Read also: Reducing Carbon Footprints: How Logistics Can Support Green Building Initiatives

Challenges in Terminal Design and Traffic Management

Ports and logistics facilities are primarily designed to accommodate large cargo vehicles and heavy equipment. Introducing smaller, battery-powered personal vehicles into these environments creates challenges due to their lower visibility and vulnerability. Traffic layouts, road conditions, and the overall infrastructure in terminals are tailored for robust machinery, not for lightweight, two-wheeled vehicles.

Neil Dalus, TT Club’s Risk Assessment Manager, highlights the inherent dangers posed by terminal surfaces: “Designed to withstand high volumes and heavy loads, terminal pavements often suffer wear and tear, leading to uneven surfaces. For smaller wheeled vehicles, these conditions are hazardous. Rail crossings, spills, and wet surfaces exacerbate the risk, especially for two-wheeled vehicles that lack the stability of their four-wheeled counterparts.”

Safety Measures and Planning

The addition of e-bikes and similar vehicles also blurs the boundaries between different user groups, such as pedestrians and cargo-handling equipment. TT Club recommends enhanced traffic safety planning, including:
– Licensing and training programs for operators.
– Mandating the use of personal protective equipment (PPE).
– Redesigning traffic layouts to accommodate diverse vehicle types.

Fire Risks in Charging and Maintenance

The increased adoption of electric vehicles brings another pressing issue: fire risks during charging. TT Club emphasizes the need for:
– Comprehensive due diligence in vehicle and charging station procurement.
– Rigorous fire risk assessments to determine the safest locations for charging points.

Balancing Innovation and Safety

While e-bikes and similar vehicles contribute significantly to cost savings and emissions reductions, their integration must be carefully managed. Dalus concludes, “Battery-powered personal transport vehicles offer substantial benefits, but their adoption requires meticulous planning and risk management. Only by addressing these concerns can we balance innovation with safety and achieve a cleaner, more sustainable working environment in the cargo handling industry.”

As the logistics sector continues its journey toward greener operations, port and terminal operators must navigate these challenges to ensure that sustainability efforts do not come at the expense of safety and operational efficiency.

global trade redwood

Decarbonization Yields $200M Annual Gains as Redwood Pioneers Carbon Accounting Solutions

Redwood’s Fall 2024 Sustainability in Logistics Report, drawing on insights from recent Gartner and Boston Consulting Group (BCG) research and Redwood’s own Sustainability in Logistics event, highlights the growing impact of decarbonization in logistics. According to Gartner’s Market Guide for Logistics Carbon Accounting and Management Solutions, in which Redwood is recognized as a Representative Vendor, companies are increasingly adopting logistics carbon accounting and management systems (LCAMS) to enhance their greenhouse gas (GHG) tracking. A recent study from the Scope 3 Peer Group shows 97% of companies view digital solutions as essential for meeting their Scope 3 decarbonization targets.

Read also: EPA Grants $3 Billion to Decarbonize U.S. Ports with Clean Technologies

At Redwood’s event, UNVR’s Senior Director of Transportation Strategy, Travis Vedral, emphasized three critical steps for the industry to achieve sustainability without major tech investments: optimizing routes, utilizing efficient equipment, and training staff. “An effective sustainability strategy begins with a team grounded in research, collaboration, and education,” Vedral noted, stressing that companies can start today by conducting internal assessments rather than waiting on new technology.

BCG’s latest Carbon Emissions Survey, released in September, underscores the financial rewards of decarbonization. The study reveals that climate leaders can secure annual financial gains exceeding 7% of revenues, averaging $200 million in net benefits. These top-performing companies are progressing beyond basic emission tracking by incorporating advanced strategies, such as leveraging AI for climate initiatives and calculating product-level emissions.

To support companies at every stage of their sustainability journey, Redwood offers Redwood Hyperion, a logistics carbon visibility tool for all shipments handled by Redwood’s brokerage or through data integrated via RedwoodConnect®. This platform seamlessly connects with clients’ existing Transportation Management, Supply Chain Management, or Enterprise Resource Planning systems to provide detailed carbon metrics.

Nate Greensphan, Director of Product at Redwood, explained, “Decarbonization and sustainability efforts in 2024 are heavily influenced by Scope 3 regulations, opening new avenues and posing unique challenges. While initial efforts can succeed without technology, advanced solutions are vital for companies with more ambitious plans.” Redwood stands as the only 4PL provider in the Market Guide offering such digital sustainability solutions to the logistics sector.

Redwood Hyperion allows for load-by-load emissions tracking, detailed supply chain metrics, and carbon neutrality support through verified carbon credit options. By analyzing shipment data—considering weight, distance, mode, and vehicle type—Hyperion normalizes and calculates emissions, leveraging Global Logistics Emissions Council (GLEC) factors across all transportation modes. Companies can access detailed reports through Hyperion, enabling further data analysis and utilization across internal platforms.

With these advancements, Redwood positions itself as a key ally for shippers aiming to meet evolving sustainability goals while unlocking significant financial returns.

global trade investment

Hydrogen: Why Your Investment Isn’t Up in the Air 

It’s clear that hydrogen remains a central pillar on the road to net zero with the fuel source predicted to make up 22% of final energy demand globally by 2050.

Read also: The Growing Green Hydrogen Market: A Sustainable Energy Revolution

Hydrogen is particularly effective in parts of the economy difficult to decarbonize such as long-haul transport with its natural abundance and easy nozzle-to-pump filling dispensation.

With the global fuel cell electric vehicle market expected to be worth 428.7 billion by 2032, forecourt owners are wise to invest in dedicated hydrogen pumps to help future-proof their businesses.

However, the investment also demonstrates a significant financial contribution. fueling company, Dover Fueling Solutions explain why this is a sound decision which will pay off in the long run.

How is hydrogen distributed and at what cost?  

The distribution of hydrogen is via three main channels: pipelines, high-pressure tube trailers and liquefied hydrogen tankers.

At present, pipes typically remain the least expensive way to deliver large volumes of hydrogen, with 4,300km of pipeline currently in place across the continent and 23,365km predicted by 2030.

Another option is tube trailers which transport compressed hydrogen gas by truck, rail or sea. This is typically an expensive method and is used for shorter distances of 200 miles or less.

Liquefied hydrogen tankers are another method used to cool hydrogen to temperatures where it becomes a liquid. This is also typically expensive but can be transported more efficiently and over longer distances too.

In addition to these different logistic methods, the dispensing mechanism is more complicated too due to the various temperatures hydrogen needs to be stored and dispensed at.

As a gas, hydrogen requires storage in high-pressure tanks of around 350-700 bar or 5000 – 10,000 psi. Liquid storage, meanwhile, requires cryogenic temperatures of -252.8 degrees. Both of these can be costly procedures with an estimated $10 per kWh of stored hydrogen capacity.

You may be wondering whether all of this is worth it, especially with the challenges surrounding distribution, storage and converting hydrogen.

So, is all of this expense worth it?

Clearly then, championing hydrogen fuel pumps demonstrates a significant investment for forecourts but that isn’t to say it doesn’t make shrewd business sense, particularly given hydrogen’s stratospheric potential.

The International Energy Agency notes that the move towards hydrogen is enjoying “unprecedented momentum” around the world as it finally presents itself as a longstanding clean energy solution.

In Europe, the ‘Basque Hydrogen Corridor’ has seen 200 million investments alone in various projects with the market expected to swell to $428 billion globally by 2032.

Of course, to facilitate all of this demand and growth, the sector will need a fully scaled infrastructure which caters to the needs of drivers, be they commercial or consumer. To accommodate, hydrogen refuelling stations are expected to grow by 17% with North America leading the growth.

The hope is that as hydrogen becomes more widely adopted, the cost of hydrogen adoption will fall dramatically. This will be in part due to technological improvements across the sector including renewable energy generation and declining costs of hydrogen electrolysis. Forecasters predict that the costs of hydrogen production could decline as much as 50% by 2023 and 70% by 2050.

In fact, stock market analysts Motley Fool believe that hydrogen is one of the best alternative fuel investments to make right now. Given its potential to decarbonize heavy industry, the fuel is likely to see an abundance of private investment which should improve infrastructure across the continent. The website estimates that it could well become a multi-trillion industry of the future.

Conclusion 

While the initial financial outlay may be daunting for some station owners, the hydrogen market demonstrates enough growth to merit the investment.

global trade vehicle

GHG Emissions Control Drives the Hydrogen-based Vehicle Market

Introduction

Natural resources and fuel reservoirs are depleting rapidly. With this effect in the background, the demand for sustainable alternatives is expected to grow. In the context of adhering to such alternatives, many organizations are finding key solutions that can not only fulfill the energy requirement but also satisfy strict environmental standards.

Read also: The Growing Green Hydrogen Market: A Sustainable Energy Revolution

Such innovations have led to a better scope for various sectors and allied realms, which augment the global landscape. Companies operating in such ecosystems innovate in order to meet different guidelines and maintain profitability.

As an alternative to traditional fuel systems, the automobile industry is shifting toward sustainable fuel sources. This trend is augmenting the competitive space as key players in the sector differentiate products based on such demand trends.

The hydrogen-based vehicles market is a prime example, which is influenced due to different trends. Let us delve deep into the assessment of the ecosystem, and various drivers proliferating the growth and opportunities for key players in the sector.

The global hydrogen-based vehicle market size was recorded at USD 1.5 billion in 2023. With the whopping development ratio nearing a CAGR of 30.8% during the forecast period, the era promises the industry to reach a valuation mark of USD 30.8 billion by 2034.

With the accelerated depletion of natural resources, alternative fuel sources are required to be found. To cater to the demand for fuel a resource must be used, that not only fulfills the energy demand but also nurtures the environment. As a result, several alternative fuel resources have emerged, which gain traction based on the application of such fuels.

Alternative Fuel Resources: The Necessity Changed into a Driver

Leading automobile manufacturers are keen on the optimization of vehicles. The process can be achieved with numerous methods. Many manufacturers focus on the optimization of engines such that the vehicle provides better consumer comfort.

Despite the improvement in vehicular design, the necessity to find alternative fuel resources is rising. Due to the rapid depletion of crude oil and petroleum, the probability of future generations facing a shortage of oil reserves is higher.

The shift from conventional fuel resources to modern resources that can arrest rapid depletion and help manufacturers adhere to sustainability is observed. As a result, this shift in consumer trends is encouraging manufacturers to choose alternative fuel sources.

Along with maintaining environmental integrity, energy requirements must be comfortably met. All such parameters can be achieved with the adoption of such a fuel source that can meet such criteria. Hydrogen is an important fuel source that can fulfill all simultaneous demands, and therefore, the element is expected to gain more traction in the future.

The reactivity of the element is high, and thus, can be used to trigger multiple reactions, creating more energy in fewer resources. As hydrogen fuel does not create any environmental hazard, the element is expected to gain attention in the automobile industry.

Greenhouse Gases Reduction to Drive the Demand for Hydrogen-based Vehicles

After the combustion in the combustion chamber of an automobile, hydrogen does not produce any harmful emissions that can harm the environment. This key property of the element drives the popularity of Hydrogen in several realms.

The aim to reduce carbon footprints is encouraging several industries to curb carbon emissions. To cater to this demand, many firms have chosen alternatives that are sustainable and cost-effective.

In the case of the automobile sector, such parameters can be achieved with the help of controlling effluents and materials which are the key by-products of the process of combustion.

Aiming to reduce carbon footprints in the industry, a suitable alternative can be used, which can be a perfect replacement for hydrocarbons. The fuel must be capable of generating enough calorific value as that of hydrocarbons but at the same time, the fuel must not emit gases like carbon dioxide, sulfur gas, etc.

Hydrogen is a perfectly suiting alternative that can fulfil such criteria, and thus, the element is expected to gain traction in the industry. The elimination of such harmful effluents can help the automobile industry meet sustainability norms and guidelines designed by different governments.

Technological Growth: Research and Development Fuels the Realm of Hydrogen-base Vehicles

The rising technological infrastructure is aiding leading manufacturers to invest more in research and development projects. Leading players in the automobile market emphasize controlling the volatility of hydrogen.

Due to the extreme volatility of hydrogen, the threat to passengers and drivers is greater. More efforts must be taken to control this volatility in order to gain maximum benefits from the element.

With the growing government investments in the industry, research institutes are gaining momentum. The augmentation of hydrogen-based engines is likely to gain popularity after removing all anomalies.

The reduction of errors and shortcomings of existing engines can be possible with the help of continuous research and product development. The increasing support for such activities in the automobile industry is likely to drive the sector.

The Automobile Industry: A Driving Force influencing Hydrogen-based Vehicle Sales

Along with all the above mentioned factors, the growing population is driving the demand for efficient transport. Due to this spiking demand, the demand for the automobile industry is expected to rise in the next decade.

With constant evolutions and modifications in the existing vehicle models, many automobile manufacturers are emphasizing the augmentation of vehicles. The proliferation of the industry is expected to create prospects for key players.

The rising disposable income levels are increasing the affordability of premium products in the automotive industry. This is expected to surge the demand for high-end hydrogen-based vehicles, elevating the demand for the industry.

Conclusion

Owing to the growing environmental awareness, the demand for innovative yet sustainable solutions is expected to rise. Consumers have become more aware of environmental hazards that can be posed by using traditional solutions to a particular issue.

Pertaining to the automobile industry, the demand for sustainable fuel sources is expected to surge. To cater to stringent environmental guidelines, key players are shifting toward innovative solutions, hydrogen fuel being one of them.

With the growing technology, research processes are likely to proliferate. This surge in research and development is likely to lead to innovation, augmenting the subject industry. The growing investments in the sector are a coupling force that drives the augmentation of hydrogen-based vehicles.

Government initiatives to uphold the automobile sector along with reducing the carbon footprint are creating better prospects for the competitive space. With the emergence of hydrogen-based vehicles, the lucrativeness of the industry is high, creating prospects for new entrants.

The proliferation of the automobile industry is projected to support the growth of the market under consideration. Such supporting factors have been driving the progress of the ecosystem.

global trade port of long beach

Port of Long Beach Secures $300 Million for Major Green Infrastructure Projects

The Port of Long Beach has been awarded $283 million from the federal government to support the development of ‘America’s Green Gateway,’ a project designed to enhance cargo capacity via rail, expedite deliveries nationwide, alleviate congestion, and mitigate local environmental impacts.

Read also: St. Louis Based Tech Firm Partners With Port Of Long Beach to Create a Supply Chain Information Highway

This significant funding, provided through the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Mega Grant Program, will be directed towards the port’s Pier B On-Dock Rail Support Facility. Valued at $1.567 billion, this facility is the cornerstone of the port’s on-dock rail improvement initiative. By facilitating the direct movement of containers to and from marine terminals by train, the on-dock rail system aims to reduce truck traffic, thus offering a cleaner and more efficient cargo transport solution. Once operational, the new facility will eliminate the need for cargo trucks, instead using smaller train segments that will be assembled into full-sized trains at the facility.

Given the critical role of the Pier B On-Dock Rail Support Facility in the national supply chain, the Port of Long Beach continues to seek additional funding partners. In July 2023, the California State Transportation Agency (CalSTA) announced a $158 million grant from the Port and Freight Infrastructure Program to support the Pier B project, reinforcing its importance to the state’s cargo movement strategy. Previously, the federal government had allocated nearly $105 million to the project. To date, the port has secured over $640 million in grant funding for Pier B.

Construction of the new facility is set to begin next year. The project will expand the existing Pier B rail yard from 82 acres to 171 acres and will increase the port’s on-dock rail cargo capacity from 1.5 million TEU to 4.7 million TEU annually. Additionally, the yard will include a depot capable of fueling and servicing up to 30 locomotives simultaneously and a full-service staging area for assembling and disassembling trains up to 10,000 feet long. The overall project will be executed in phases, each designed to enhance cargo flow, with completion anticipated by 2032.

“Reliable and efficient transportation of goods is crucial for keeping our economy thriving while protecting the air we breathe,” stated U.S. Senator Alex Padilla. “The Port of Long Beach is a leading international hub for cargo transport, and this project will reduce truck emissions while promoting economic growth and efficiency. Thanks to the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, we are strengthening our supply chain, creating jobs, and improving air quality in near-port communities across the region.”

Mario Cordero, Chief Executive Officer of the Port of Long Beach, highlighted the transformative impact of the funding, saying, “This facility will enhance the efficiency of cargo movement to homes and businesses across America and from U.S. producers to international markets, delivering systemwide benefits to the supply chain. We are grateful to the U.S. Department of Transportation, Senator Alex Padilla, and Congressman Robert Garcia for recognizing the significance of this project and making a substantial investment in sustainable, efficient cargo transport.”

Earlier this year, the Port of Long Beach took significant steps towards a sustainable future by upgrading its rail infrastructure and improving air quality, laying the groundwork for this landmark project.

global trade ship

Innovative Strategy Reduces Cargo Ship Emissions by 17.3%

A groundbreaking approach known as the “Blue Visby Solution” has demonstrated significant reductions in cargo ship emissions during its first trials, achieving a 17.3% decrease without any modifications to the ships themselves. This innovative method focuses on smarter speed and timing management to eliminate inefficiencies.

Read also: Changes in Agrifood Production Can Cut Greenhouse Emissions by a Third

Shipping, while efficient for bulk goods transport, accounts for about 3% of global man-made carbon emissions and is challenging to decarbonize. Traditional solutions like hydrogen, green ammonia, and sail-wings are being explored, but the Blue Visby Solution offers a simpler alternative by changing operational practices.

Typically, cargo ships follow a “sail fast, then wait” (SFTW) approach, racing from port to port and often waiting idly, burning fuel until it’s time to dock. The Blue Visby Solution proposes slowing ships down to arrive just in time, reducing hydrodynamic drag and consequently cutting fuel consumption and emissions.

A study of 3,651 Panamax vessels showed a potential median emission reduction of 23.2%. Another broader study by NAPA involving 150,000 voyages from 13,000 ships in 2019 suggested a 16% reduction by slowing down by an average of just one knot.

Recent trials with two bulk carriers, M/V Gerdt Oldendorff and M/V Begonia, confirmed these projections, recording CO2 reductions of 28.2% and 12.9% respectively. The overall average reduction was 17.3%.

Despite the promising results, shifting from the deeply entrenched SFTW practice presents a significant challenge. The Blue Visby Consortium has addressed this by developing a benefit-sharing mechanism, incentivizing all stakeholders, including ship owners, charterers, and ports, to participate.

Beyond emissions and fuel savings, the solution offers additional benefits such as reduced hull fouling, improved air quality at ports, and lower underwater noise pollution.

As decarbonization technologies evolve, the Blue Visby Solution’s efficiency gains will complement these advancements, making it a crucial element in maritime decarbonization strategies. With continued trials and anticipated commercial deployment, this method holds promise for a more sustainable future in global shipping.

reusable packaging

How to Make Reusable Packaging Scalable for Better Sustainability

Manufacturers, supply chain workers and the packaging industry must collaborate to make reusable packaging scalable for a greener planet. Single-use containers should have never become the norm, as the byproducts litter landfills, oceans and communities. Reusable packaging at scale is possible with commitment, overcoming financial fears, and understanding its long-term benefits and eco-conscious impact. 

These imperative suggestions will guide every sector to ethical packaging to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

Recognize Price Is Not the Issue

Many manufacturers refuse to transition to more ethical packing materials because of costs. Industries have created a narrative that reusable packaging is more expensive, but this is not true, even with a rise in overall demand and consumerism. Single-use packaging makers know they can upcharge their products because of heightened demand, making prices competitive. 

Manufacturers have never challenged their mental associations with single-use options and cost-effectiveness because single-use has historically trended cheaper. Now is the time to reevaluate. The cost of materials has risen 23% in two years. Compounding that with the energy and labor costs of making it usable for clients marks it up even more to a staggering 80% spike. 

By 2024, reusable alternatives will be cheaper than single-use when considering the big picture.

Outside of internal costs are recycling and disposal charges called eco-taxes. Concepts like carbon taxes and extended producer responsibility add millions more to budgets to account for wanton waste disposal. Manufacturers and packing companies avoid these fees with reusable packaging at scale.

Abate Hygienic Concerns

Public concerns over the cleanliness of reusable packaging are a primary deterrent to consumer buy-in. Around 38% of customers say reusable products need to be cleaner. These feelings are leftover from events like the COVID-19 pandemic, which prevented reusable packaging in places where it had become ubiquitous, like coffee shops. 

Companies must tackle this issue, not consumers. It is a scaling concern because the more confident customers become about the safety and cleanliness of products, the faster supply chains rewrite assumptions about sustainable packaging. Eliminating fear increases profits, making eco-conscious options even more inexpensive. These are a few routes manufacturers can take to ease concerns:

  • Offering sanitation stations in bulk stores for consumers and staff
  • Publishing footage on in-house cleaning processes throughout the supply chain
  • Posting educational resources for customers on how to detect unclean or defective reusable packaging and how to clean their own 

Lobby for Legislation

Regulations unfold at the speed of sound when corporations make their voices heard. If all manufacturers gathered together to tell their national governments how much of a priority reusable packaging was, meaningful collaborations and conversations would manifest in trying to make that happen. It would become a forced priority instead of a voluntary one. 

Reusable packaging does not scale well right now due to a failure in commitment. Many companies run trials or tests for research purposes to see how well circular packaging performs. Enterprises see the data, obtain the press for embracing environmental, social and governance goals, and continue business as usual. Higher customer engagement must motivate continued efforts instead of representing a temporary boon in publicity. Trials should continue. Supply chains must see it as the first step to commercial adoption.

Further testing allows corporations to hone in on the key performance indicators that match their ESG and corporate social responsibility objectives. Businesses must make testing reusable packaging an even higher priority if results are not as expected or wanted from a single trial run. Companies should experiment until they find the hidden value potential behind a reusable packaging model.

Optimize Reusable Packaging for Shipping

Many reusable packages are heading to pallets, into trucks and across nations to customers. Transporting it and what is inside might be the most expensive part of the process. It does not have to be if companies optimize the containers for efficient shipping, making it easier to scale in even the most considerable quantities.

For example, creating a bottle with a square base allows more to fit in a box or truck while minimizing the negative space circular versions would create.

Reinforcing packaging during transport is another way to save costs. Workforces will mark less inventory as waste if fewer units are damaged from shipping vibrations and collisions and collisions in transit. Reusable packaging creates sustainable reinforcement solutions that solidify financial foundations while improving the product’s scalability.

Create Refills Without a Need for Packaging

Developing infrastructure to return materials is the ideal setup for most supply chains. Corporations could have local kiosks, drop-off points, pickup services or other solutions to reclaim materials consumers purchased. Supply chains and manufacturers would then clean, recycle and repurpose the same packaging materials for new products. It requires choosing infinitely recyclable materials like glass or using more creative alternatives. 

For example, compostable packing peanuts can stay with customers for their piles or go back to providers to nourish the lands they use for sustainable lumber for paper and wood-related packaging products.

A take-back system is ideal, but plenty of reusable packaging models exist. Cleaning company Blueland and supplement business Mushroom Design sell glass containers for their products only once. Customers purchase refills and concentrates with less or no packaging to place back into the glass containers. People may buy refills online or supply chains can partner with grocery stores or other local programs to create waystations for topping off products without unnecessary shipping costs and packaging.

These structures make reusable packaging at scale simpler. It reduces packaging costs because more products do not have it. Additionally, providing refill points for consumers is infinitely scalable, reducing the obstacle of convenience customers associate with reusable packaging.

Reusable Packaging at Scale Is a Reality Now

These are the best ways for manufacturers to make a difference in sustainable packaging. Modern research shows how cost-effective it is to consider the planet first and profits second. In the next few years, sustainable packaging will be an avenue for scaled growth and more resilient bottom lines. The transition garners brand loyalty and the likelihood of locking customers in for the long term. 

The only action manufacturers must take is to be transparent about their reusable packaging decisions and advocate for standardization to make it a global norm.

system

WELTEC BIOPOWER Unveils WB Control: The Next Generation Biogas Plant Management System

WELTEC BIOPOWER, a leading provider of biogas plant solutions, has introduced an innovative user interface for its biogas plant control systems, marking a significant upgrade in functionality and usability. The new system, WB Control, offers enhanced process optimization capabilities alongside an intuitive user interface designed for clarity and efficiency.

Under the unified name WB Control, the system combines the functionalities of previous control systems, LoMos and CeMos, catering to both small and complex industrial biogas plants. This web-based software provides operators with rapid access to critical system parameters and a customizable dashboard for real-time monitoring. Multiple users can access WB Control simultaneously, ensuring seamless collaboration.

Wolfgang Bokern, Head of Technology at WELTEC BIOPOWER, underscores the focus on meeting the evolving needs of plant operators and investors for comprehensive and transparent monitoring, especially for continuous process optimization.

The biogas plant control system from WELTEC BIOPOWER is receiving a general update: This includes new functionalities for process optimization as well as a user interface that provides a quick and comprehensive overview of the entire plant thanks to a symbolism designed according to the latest findings and clarity in the display.

WB Control facilitates the creation of customized diagrams and reports, offering daily, monthly, or annual overviews of key metrics for energy planning and peak load avoidance. New features like FellowFeed and GuidoFill streamline the feeding process, enhancing operational efficiency. Furthermore, the system’s alarm management ensures prompt notification of system malfunctions, enabling quick response and remote troubleshooting by WELTEC BIOPOWER’s service team.

Key advantages of WB Control include simplified feeding processes, clear visualization of system processes, efficient navigation, extensive business evaluation options, exportable reports for compliance purposes, and intuitive user interface with tooltips. Additionally, the system is compatible with other systems and can be accessed via web browsers on mobile devices, offering flexibility and convenience to users.

WB Control represents a significant advancement in biogas plant management, empowering operators with enhanced monitoring and control capabilities to optimize plant performance and ensure regulatory compliance.