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Green Logistics: Sustainable Strategies for Global Trade

global trade IMO green shipping

Green Logistics: Sustainable Strategies for Global Trade

As global trade continues to grow, so does its environmental impact. From carbon emissions to waste generation, logistics operations play a significant role in contributing to climate change and resource depletion. In response to these challenges, the concept of green logistics has emerged as a crucial strategy to make the transportation and distribution of goods more sustainable. Green logistics involves reducing the environmental footprint of logistics activities while maintaining efficiency and competitiveness in global trade.

Read also: Sustainable Shipping: Innovations Driving Greener Global Trade

Understanding Green Logistics

Green logistics refers to the use of eco-friendly practices across the supply chain to minimize environmental harm. This includes everything from sourcing raw materials responsibly to using energy-efficient vehicles, optimizing packaging, and managing waste. The goal is to reduce carbon emissions, lower fuel consumption, and minimize waste without compromising the speed and reliability that global trade demands.

By integrating sustainability into logistics operations, companies not only help protect the planet but also improve their brand image, meet regulatory requirements, and often reduce long-term costs.

Transportation: The Core Focus

One of the most significant contributors to greenhouse gas emissions in logistics is transportation. Cargo ships, airplanes, trucks, and trains all use fossil fuels, with trucks and ships accounting for a large portion of emissions in international trade. To address this, green logistics strategies focus on adopting cleaner transportation methods.

Electric and hybrid delivery trucks, rail transport for long-distance shipments, and the use of alternative fuels like biodiesel or liquefied natural gas are becoming more common. Additionally, optimizing delivery routes using software tools helps reduce fuel usage and emissions by avoiding unnecessary travel.

Some companies are also exploring the use of drones and autonomous electric vehicles for last-mile delivery in urban areas, which could further reduce emissions and traffic congestion.

Greener Warehousing and Packaging

Sustainability efforts are not limited to transport. Warehouses and distribution centers are also key areas where green logistics strategies are being applied. Many modern warehouses now use solar power, LED lighting, and energy-efficient HVAC systems to reduce their environmental impact. Automated systems are also used to improve energy efficiency in inventory management and order processing.

Packaging is another area under review. Overpackaging, the use of non-recyclable materials, and excessive use of plastic contribute significantly to environmental damage. Businesses are increasingly shifting to recyclable or biodegradable packaging materials, designing products and packages to use fewer materials, and encouraging consumers to recycle or reuse packaging whenever possible.

Digital Technologies Supporting Sustainability

Technology is playing a vital role in advancing green logistics. Tools like Artificial Intelligence (AI), the Internet of Things (IoT), and blockchain are being used to make logistics operations more transparent, efficient, and sustainable.

For example, AI-powered software can help optimize supply chains, reduce fuel consumption, and improve warehouse energy use. IoT sensors can monitor temperature, humidity, and fuel usage in real-time, allowing companies to identify inefficiencies and correct them immediately. Blockchain technology is used to ensure transparency in sourcing and traceability of products, ensuring that sustainability claims are backed by data.

Digital solutions not only reduce environmental impact but also enhance decision-making, save costs, and improve overall supply chain performance.

Collaboration and Policy Support

Implementing green logistics at scale requires collaboration across the entire supply chain. Manufacturers, suppliers, logistics providers, and retailers need to work together to establish environmentally responsible practices. Governments and international bodies also play a key role by introducing policies and incentives that support sustainable logistics.

For instance, regulations that set limits on emissions, offer tax breaks for eco-friendly vehicles, or promote the development of green infrastructure encourage businesses to invest in sustainable logistics. Collaboration between countries is also important, especially in global trade, to ensure consistent environmental standards.

Future Ahead

Green logistics is no longer a niche strategy, it is becoming essential for businesses that aim to operate responsibly and remain competitive in a changing global landscape. As consumer awareness about environmental issues grows, there is increasing pressure on companies to adopt sustainable practices across all areas of their operations.

While transitioning to green logistics may involve initial investment, the long-term benefits both environmental and economic are substantial. From reducing carbon emissions to improving operational efficiency, the strategies being adopted today are helping pave the way for a more sustainable future in global trade.

Conclusion

Green logistics represents a shift toward more responsible and environmentally conscious supply chain practices. By rethinking transportation, warehousing, packaging, and technology use, companies can significantly reduce their ecological impact. As global trade continues to expand, adopting sustainable logistics strategies will be key to ensuring that growth does not come at the expense of the planet.

global trade sustainable logistics green shipping

Sustainable Shipping Innovations: Driving Green Logistics Worldwide

As global trade has increased exponentially in recent years, the shipping industry faces challenges over environmental impact. To overcome these challenges, the shipping industry is going through a green transformation, leading to the adoption of green logistics worldwide. Green logistics refers to the implementation of sustainable practices throughout the supply chain to minimize environmental impact. This includes optimizing routes, using electric vehicles, and reducing waste in warehousing and packaging. Moreover, by reducing emissions and improving resource management, green logistics helps businesses become more sustainable and competitive. In this article, we discuss five major ways to implement green logistics and reduce emissions, leading to sustainable shipping. 

Read alo: Port of Long Beach Launches $57M Green Tech Push to Cut Emissions

1. Automotive AI

Automotive AI is the implementation of AI technologies to improve safety, maximize efficiency, and enhance customer experience. AI algorithms analyze traffic patterns, road conditions, and other factors to determine the most efficient routes, minimizing fuel consumption and emissions. AI-powered systems optimize vehicle loading, reduce idling time, and improve driving habits, further enhancing fuel efficiency and reducing emissions. Moreover, AI-powered route planning tools reduce travel time and fuel consumption, leading to significant cost savings. AI optimizes inventory management, predicts demand accurately, and minimizes waste, leading to cost savings and resource efficiency. Additionally, Consegic Business Intelligence analyzes that the automotive AI market size is estimated to reach over USD 27.04 Billion by 2032 from a value of USD 4.73 Billion in 2024 and is projected to grow by USD 5.98 Billion in 2025, growing at a CAGR of 27.9% from 2025 to 2032.

2. Electrification of Vehicles

Electrifying vehicles and integrating them into logistics operations offer numerous advantages, including reduced emissions, lower operating costs, and improved public health. Electric vehicles produce zero tailpipe emissions, directly contributing to lower carbon footprints in logistics operations. By reducing emissions, EVs help clean up urban air, especially in densely populated areas, and promote public health. Moreover, EVs are significantly quieter than traditional vehicles, reducing noise pollution in urban environments. EVs require less maintenance due to fewer moving parts, and electricity is relatively cheaper than fossil fuels. This shift also provides businesses with a competitive edge and enhances their brand reputation. 

3. Digitalization and Real-Time Emissions Monitoring

Digitalization enables businesses to manage their fleets more efficiently, optimize resource allocation, and reduce waste. Real-time tracking of vehicles and goods allows better monitoring of performance, route optimization, and reduced downtime. Moreover, optimized routes can reduce fuel consumption by up to 20%, significantly lowering emissions and costs. Additionally, real-time data and insights enable businesses to make informed decisions about logistics operations, leading to greater efficiency and cost savings. Real-time tracking and transparency provide customers with greater control and visibility into their orders, enhancing their satisfaction. Thus, digital transformation leads to sustainable logistics by optimizing supply chains, minimizing environmental impact, and meeting the growing demands of environmentally conscious consumers. 

4. Green Ports and Supply Chain Collaboration

Green ports prioritize reducing emissions from port operations, including the use of cleaner fuels, implementing energy-efficient technologies, and optimizing cargo handling processes. Green ports focus on reducing waste generation through initiatives like recycling, composting, and promoting sustainable waste management practices. Green ports implement measures to prevent and mitigate pollution of water bodies, including stormwater management and wastewater treatment.

Additionally, supply chain collaboration involves working together with partners to achieve common goals, including sustainability and cost reduction. Collaboration facilitates the sharing of information and insights, enabling better planning, forecasting, and decision-making. By working together, supply chain partners identify and manage potential risks, such as supply chain disruptions or environmental incidents. This leads to route optimization, lowered costs, and reduced waste. 

5. Warehouse Optimization 

Optimizing storage space, utilizing vertical space, and implementing efficient racking systems can maximize warehouse capacity. Implementing waste reduction and recycling programs can minimize disposal costs and contribute to a circular economy. Using energy-efficient lighting, equipment, and building design can reduce energy consumption and utility bills. Implementing automation technologies, such as robotic systems, can improve efficiency, reduce labor costs, and enhance accuracy. Efficient inventory management systems can reduce storage costs, minimize waste, and improve order fulfillment. Thus, optimized warehousing creates a more sustainable supply chain from sourcing to delivery. 

Conclusion

By addressing sustainability at every stage of the supply chain, from port operations to transportation and warehousing, companies can achieve a more comprehensive and effective green strategy. Collaboration and green practices lead to significant cost savings and operational efficiencies across the entire supply chain. Demonstrating a commitment to sustainability can improve a company’s reputation and attract customers and investors who value environmental responsibility. Companies that embrace green practices and collaborate with their supply chain partners are better positioned to compete in the evolving global market.

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.

goodshipping

GoodShipping Expands Green Initiatives to Revolutionize Road Transportation Decarbonization

GoodShipping, the renowned carbon insetting leader, is delighted to unveil its latest venture into the realm of decarbonization services for road transportation. This move follows their groundbreaking success in pioneering carbon insetting for marine transport since 2017, showcasing their commitment to enhancing emission reduction solutions for both customers and the environment. It’s a vital step, considering that truck freight currently contributes to a staggering 16% of global transport emissions, and projections suggest this could surge to 25% by 2030 if immediate action is not taken.

Recognizing the pressing need to address this challenge, GoodShipping has expanded its solutions to encompass the road transportation sector, with the aim of reducing scope 3 emissions from transport.

Decarbonizing Supply Chains

In line with their highly successful approach in marine transportation, GoodShipping is orchestrating a seamless transition from fossil fuels to sustainable biofuels for road transport. This approach aligns with the concept that all carbon emissions contribute to the same atmosphere. Thus, any carrier utilizing biofuel signifies a reduction in fossil fuel emissions in the atmosphere. GoodShipping collaborates closely with an independent third-party verification partner to rigorously review procedures and calculation methods, ensuring the accurate allocation of carbon reductions to clients.

Through GoodShipping’s insetting services, cargo owners can now make their supply chains more environmentally friendly, even if they don’t own the means of transport used for shipping their goods. In return, cargo owners receive CO2e credits, bringing them closer to their sustainability objectives while showcasing their commitment to mitigating scope 3 emissions and promoting the adoption of biofuels.

A Successful Pilot Implementation

As part of their unwavering commitment to continuous improvement, GoodShipping initiated a pilot program to test and optimize their road insetting service. During this pilot, the road insetting service was trialed by a variety of international clients, including JAS Worldwide, Raben, Scan Global Logistics, and Hellmann Worldwide Logistics. Following successful evaluations, GoodShipping is now offering its road insetting services to all businesses seeking sustainable land-based freight transportation solutions.

Andrea Goeman, SVP Sustainability at JAS, expressed their enthusiasm for the expanded collaboration: “We are thrilled to collaborate with GoodShipping not only on sustainable marine biofuel but also on biofuel for road transport. This expansion of their insetting solutions aligns with our commitment to environmental sustainability and allows us to further create value for our customers.”

Jens Wollesen, COO of Hellmann Worldwide Logistics, emphasized their strategic focus on sustainability and the reduction of CO2 emissions, highlighting how the partnership with GoodShipping enables their customers to reduce Scope 3 emissions from land transport as part of their global seafreight supply chains.

Martin Andersen, Global Head of Sustainability & ESG at Scan Global Logistics, underlined the industry’s collective responsibility for environmental action and praised the collaboration with GoodShipping for extending their commitment to environmental sustainability.

Robbert Wehrmeijer, Managing Director of FincoEnergies Carbon Management, responsible for the GoodShipping brand, stressed the significance of expanding insetting solutions to road transportation to combat climate change effectively.

For companies eager to reduce emissions from road transportation, taking the first step toward sustainable freight transportation is encouraged by reaching out to GoodShipping. This expansion marks a significant milestone in the ongoing battle against climate change and represents a promising future for environmentally conscious road transportation.

Green Logistics: Strategies for Sustainable Shipping via Eco-Friendly Ports

Nowadays, environmental awareness rightfully takes center stage. It’s imperative, considering that Earth is our only home. Consequently, industries worldwide are actively finding ways to be more sustainable and to minimize their carbon emissions.

The logistics sector, often referred to as the lifeblood of global trade and commerce, is no outlier when it comes to sustainability. This article delves into the world of green logistics and the innovative strategies that enable eco-friendly ports to facilitate sustainable shipping.

What is Green Logistics? 

Green logistics, alternatively known as eco-logistics or sustainable logistics, adopts a comprehensive approach to efficiently manage the flow of goods while minimizing environmental impact. 

This involves a wide range of strategies, technologies, and practices geared toward diminishing greenhouse gas emissions, energy usage, and environmental harm associated with the transportation and logistics sectors.

The Importance of Sustainable Shipping

Sustainable shipping is far from a trend; it’s an absolute necessity. Below, we outline the most compelling reasons why:

  • Environmental Preservation: Sustainable shipping is a crucial tool in the fight against greenhouse gas emissions, air pollution, and water contamination, ultimately preserving our planet’s delicate ecosystems.
  • Regulatory Compliance: Adhering to sustainable shipping practices ensures compliance with increasingly stringent environmental regulations, avoiding fines and penalties.
  • Cost Savings: Energy-efficient and eco-friendly shipping methods often lead to lower operational costs, contributing to long-term savings for businesses.
  • Consumer Preference: Eco-conscious consumers favor products and companies that prioritize sustainability, leading to enhanced brand reputation and customer loyalty.
  • Global Reputation: Participating in sustainable shipping elevates a company’s international reputation, making it more attractive to partners and customers worldwide.
  • Resource Efficiency: Sustainable shipping encourages responsible resource management, such as reduced fuel consumption and minimized waste generation.
  • Climate Change Mitigation: By reducing emissions, sustainable shipping contributes to mitigating the effects of climate change, a global concern.
  • Innovation and Competitiveness: Embracing sustainable practices sparks innovation and enhances competitiveness in the logistics sector, positioning companies for future success.
  • Long-Term Viability: Sustainable shipping strategies play a crucial role in ensuring the industry’s long-term viability by mitigating its impact on the environment and society.

Eco-Friendly Ports: A Key Element

Eco-friendly ports are central to the world of green logistics. These ports are equipped with cutting-edge infrastructure crafted to minimize the ecological footprint of shipping operations.

Sustainable shipping partners in port management harness renewable energy sources and employ efficient waste management practices, further enhancing the eco-friendliness of these vital transportation hubs.

Strategies for Sustainable Shipping via Eco-Friendly Ports

Here are the strategic approaches for achieving sustainable shipping through eco-friendly ports: 

1. Optimization of Shipping Routes

Optimizing shipping routes is a fundamental strategy for reducing emissions and fuel consumption. Advanced logistics software and real-time data analysis allow companies to choose the most efficient and eco-friendly paths for their shipments.

2. Energy-Efficient Shipping Vessels

Investing in energy-efficient shipping vessels can significantly decrease fuel consumption. These vessels are designed with advanced propulsion systems, aerodynamics, and energy recovery technologies to minimize their carbon footprint.

3. Renewable Energy Sources at Ports

Eco-friendly ports rely on renewable energy sources like solar and wind power to fulfill their energy requirements. This not only cuts costs but also guarantees a consistent and sustainable energy supply.

4. Green Packaging Solutions

Reducing the environmental impact of shipping involves reconsidering packaging materials. Sustainable packaging options, such as biodegradable materials, can lessen the carbon footprint associated with product transport.

5. Sustainable Supply Chain Management

Sustainable supply chain management involves reducing waste, optimizing inventory, and collaborating with partners to create a more sustainable and efficient logistics network.

Challenges and Solutions

Transitioning to green logistics may seem daunting, but with the right approach, it becomes more manageable. Here’s a breakdown of the challenges and some potential solutions:

Challenges

  • Initial Investment: Upgrading to eco-friendly practices involves costs for technology, equipment, and certifications.
  • Operational Changes: Adapting to sustainable logistics may require adjustments in the supply chain, employee training, and transportation routes.
  • Resistance to Change: Employees and stakeholders may be hesitant about shifting to eco-conscious methods.

Solutions

  • Investment Payoff: Recognize that the upfront investment pays off with long-term savings and environmental benefits.
  • Efficiency Gains: Sustainable logistics often lead to cost reductions through fuel-efficient practices and optimized routes.
  • Reputation and Loyalty: Embracing eco-friendly initiatives can boost your company’s reputation and attract loyal customers.
  • Collaboration: Partner with organizations that share your commitment to sustainability.
  • Government Support: Explore potential government incentives and subsidies for green initiatives.
  • Technological Advances: Leverage evolving technology to streamline the transition to sustainable logistics.

In essence, by addressing these challenges with these solutions in mind, businesses can navigate the path to greener logistics more smoothly and reap the benefits of reduced costs, an enhanced reputation, and a brighter environmental future.

Conclusion

Sustainable shipping through eco-friendly ports doesn’t just sound good in theory; they are being implemented right now in the logistics industry. With the strategies discussed in this article, companies can reduce their environmental impact and thrive in a market that values sustainability. 

Remember, choosing eco-friendly logistics is a smart step towards a greener and more successful future! 

trucking insurance

How Can We Make Trucking More Sustainable?

Transportation accounts for around one-fifth of global carbon emissions, with road freight being one of the largest contributors.

As a result — and as sustainability becomes more important to businesses, investors and consumers — trucking companies are looking for ways to make their work greener. New strategies and technology are helping the industry improve its sustainability and reduce its carbon footprint.

Utilizing these strategies could help make a trucking industry that’s more sustainable and just as capable of moving goods around the country. Here are some tactics that are helping companies to go green.

New Technology Paves the Way for Green Trucking

A handful of innovations may help the trucking industry tackle its most significant sources of carbon — primarily, emissions generated by trucks burning fossil fuels.

The most significant new technology will likely be the electric vehicles (EVs) and alternative fuel vehicles (AFVs) arriving on the market. These trucks are powered by nondiesel energy sources — like hydrogen, biodiesel, renewable natural gas or pure electricity.

Depending on their particular fuel source, they can produce reduced carbon emissions compared to diesel, or none at all. This allows trucking companies to significantly reduce their largest source of greenhouse gas emissions.

Limitations of these EVs and AFVs — like a lack of national electric vehicle charging and infrastructure — made them a risky investment in the past. However, as charging stations become common and manufacturers release electric trucks with ranges comparable to diesel ones, companies are beginning to reconsider these vehicles. The growing AFV and EV market segment also means businesses have more options than ever when it comes to nondiesel trucks.

Some AFVs, like those powered by biodiesel and renewable natural gas, aren’t emissions-free but are a more sustainable option than conventional trucks. For example, biodiesel is a renewable resource produced from feedstock that absorbs carbon dioxide from the atmosphere as it grows. Burning it isn’t completely green, but making it can help to actively sequester atmospheric carbon.

Adopting either AFVs or EVs will take a major investment from the industry, and there are still risks to pivoting away from conventional fuel-powered trucks. However, these AFVs are likely the best way for a trucking business to reduce its individual carbon footprint.

Other significant innovations come from the IT world. New monitoring and driver management software provides businesses with data management and gathering tools that were never available before. Telematics and GPS technology can help companies monitor their fleets and driver behavior, allowing them to identify unsustainable driving habits and route choices.

These GPS devices could be combined with other monitoring technologies, like Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) sensors that gather truck health and performance information. They are already being used in the intermodal transportation industry to improve business efficiency.

This technology could make tracking driver behavior and vehicle health much easier.

Best Practices Could Reduce the Trucking Industry’s Carbon Footprint

Businesses may not need to adopt entirely new technology to improve their carbon footprint. Instead, new business services, models and best practices may help the trucking industry cut back on carbon emissions while using existing trucks.

Full truckloads (FTLs) are a strategy that aims to minimize empty miles and underutilized truck storage space. This allows businesses to make trucking a much more sustainable shipping approach.

In some cases, trucking companies may be able to maximize their FTL count by outsourcing logistics operations to the right partner. Business-to-business freight shipping company FlockFreight has launched a new service that combines multiple less-than-truckloads (LTLs) to maximize goods shipped while reducing carbon emissions.

In 2017, empty miles accounted for around 17% of all greenhouse gas emissions from the trucking industry. Cutting down on these miles while maximizing full truckloads could help improve the industry’s productivity and minimize carbon emissions at the same time. All it takes is partnering with a sustainable logistics company.

The Right Maintenance Approach Can Minimize Carbon Emissions

Even simple changes to a business’s maintenance strategy can significantly reduce carbon emissions. For example, tire rolling resistance is considered to be one of the main factors impacting a vehicle’s fuel efficiency, along with the engine and aerodynamics.

A company’s choice of tire and maintenance practices that keep tires inflated can help significantly reduce the amount of fuel a vehicle needs. Lower consumption can reduce operational costs and carbon emissions.

Other effective maintenance practices can also help minimize fuel consumption and risks like downtime. Oil changes and other repairs that keep engines as efficient as possible can improve fuel economy and keep carbon emissions low.

Businesses are also beginning to invest in new telematics strategies that provide them with additional maintenance data. Remote monitoring solutions with IoT devices give companies a real-time snapshot of their entire truck fleet’s health.

Virtual dashboards can collect and display data like fleet-wide tire pressure, maintenance needs and fuel consumption, allowing managers to pinpoint potential problems.

Over time, these monitoring solutions can also lay the foundation for predictive maintenance strategies. They use a combination of real-time maintenance data from telematics systems and artificial intelligence to predict when a truck will need work. These algorithms can often significantly improve vehicle performance, increase life span and reduce the risk of unexpected downtime.

These benefits can help companies reduce operating costs while minimizing their carbon footprint.

New Technology Can Create a Sustainable Trucking Industry

The trucking industry has long struggled with carbon emissions and pollution. Trucks that burn fossil fuels, like diesel, naturally produce a large amount of greenhouse gas. This takes a huge toll on the environment. Trucking companies would be wise to adopt sustainable practices as more consumers and corporations look to green practices.

New technology and best practices can enable the sector to become more sustainable. Combined with new monitoring or maintenance platforms, AFVs and EVs may allow a business to almost eliminate its carbon footprint. Even simple changes to business processes that help maximize the number of FTLs can have a major impact on emissions. Employing these tactics paves the way for a more sustainable trucking industry.

___________________________________________________________________

Emily Newton is an industrial journalist. As Editor-in-Chief of Revolutionized, she regularly covers how technology is changing the industry.

supply chain trends

Top 7 Supply Chain Trends to Optimize in 2021

Ever since the coronavirus pandemic, there have been several trends changing in the market across the world. Supply chains have become a crucial part of businesses today as there are exciting strategies put in place that enhance a business’s performance. Due to COVID-19, supply chain practitioners face a post-pandemic recovery armed with a set of new systems and practices. Supply chain management ensures that consumer demands are met and the different components of your business run smoothly. The pandemic made it even more important for businesses to stay on top of the latest trends and development especially in supply change management.

Being up-to-date with the latest changes will ensure that you stay resilient with the ever-changing market. Supply chain management (SCM) consists of a wide range of components and activities that require attention to every single detail. SCM is all about being able to make sound business decisions and quick to source out alternatives to stay on top of business trends. Digitization of the supply chain has been crucial in the post-pandemic era. Having an excellent web hosting provider can improve your online marketing performance. If you are looking for a hosting service with the best feature, read the reviews on Hosting Foundry.

In this article, you will learn about different supply chain trends you must optimize in 2021 to improve your company’s productivity and performance.

Blockchain technology

Blockchain technology has been incredibly essential for businesses to minimize disruption of the supply chain and improve customer service. The worldwide spending on blockchain is expected to rise upt0 11 billion before 2022. Over the last few years, this trend has integrated different streams of your business such as shipping lines, carriers, logistic providers all into a single platform. It also allows businesses with logistic operations to efficiently process data by cutting out waste. The transparency offered by blockchain technology helps supply chain managers to identify issues even before they occur.

Internet of Things (IoT)

Businesses have understood how to leverage the power of IoT, extensively in warehouse automation. By implementing IoT devices, businesses can improve supply chain visibility that can provide businesses to optimize their assets and ROI. It is considered one of the most vital supply chain trends as it allows logistic companies to connect digitally and transfer data efficiently. IoT technology in warehouses and retail outlets can also improve visibility in production, inventory management, and predictive maintenance.

Elastic Logistics

Market fluctuations can make or break a business during a crisis. Having supply chains that are responsive, effective, and stable will ensure that businesses can still thrive during this tough time. This is where elastic logistic trends come into play and enhance the ability to expand or shrink according to current market demands. This technology helps companies manage and adjust potential issues with minimal disruptions. The flexibility of elastic logistics can improve your business performance and optimize it to greater heights.

Robotic Automation

Even though robotics automation is still in its infancy when it comes to supply chain operations, it has shown its effectiveness for many businesses. It can play a huge role in upgrading your process leaving little to no room for errors. Many companies have already integrated robotic automation to streamline logistics by using drones and driverless vehicles for various purposes. The technology is focused on speeding tasks through machines and empowering your human workers to focus on strategies that enhance customer experience and improve your business productivity.

E-commerce Logistics

Ever since the pandemic, e-commerce sales have skyrocketed as people have been quarantined at home. E-commerce logistics is expected to expand to €557 billion by 2025 as consumers are constantly looking for companies providing value-added services. Great e-commerce logistics will optimize your transportation and distribution hubs to specific retail partners who can provide picking, packing, shipping, and even real-time updates. Digital fulfillment is one of the important components of e-commerce logistics as it ensures consumers that their product reaches its destination.

Gamification

Gamification is one exciting supply chain trend in 2021 that boosts productivity amongst warehouse workers. Gamification offers employees to have healthy competition using digital tools that can be integrated into real warehouse processes. This technological trend can track your employee’s accuracy, speed, and progress time all contributing towards improving skills and work performance. It also enables companies to reward workers with bragging rights through their fun and interactive tasks. This trend is highly effective that can encourage employees to work smarter and harder.

Green Logistics

In the past few years, we have seen eco-friendly communities and consumers searching for environmentally conscious companies that responsibly push the supply chain. The main objective of optimizing green logistics for a company is to make the warehouse eco-friendly which reduces their carbon footprint on the earth. Due to the rise in demand, more and more companies are opting to switch their supply chain management into going green that can benefit the environment. Some of the essential factors of this trend would include consuming less energy such as gas, water, electricity, etc which can directly benefit the environment. Electric vehicles or solar-powered vehicles is another factor that companies can take into consideration. Companies that use climate-smart supply chains can benefit more through these resources which can help the company gain profit and customer loyalty through these practices.

Supply chain trends are constantly evolving as they are interconnected with the growth of the market. Any sort of disruption can cause havoc in the management which can affect workflow and productivity. Focusing on these 7 supply chain trends you can improve your overall performance at work.

sustainable logistics

DHL Announces First-Ever “Sustainable Logistics” Catwalk

Known as the J Winter Fashion Show 2020, DHL announced the upcoming fashion show spotlighting the relationship between the fashion industry and sustainable logistics solutions to take place on February 6 at DHL’s Express John F. Kennedy Gateway.  Fashion show producer and supermodel Jessica Minh Anh will be strutting the latest in innovative fashion  from Europe, Asia, Australia, and America while highlighting diversity, unity, creativity, and sustainability.

“Since shipping and logistics is such a big part of the fashion industry, I believe it is crucial to minimize environmental impacts by using green logistics solutions. What drew me to DHL is its great commitment to sustainability. From optimizing transport routes and rolling out alternative fuel vehicles, to operating energy-efficient warehouses, DHL is reducing transport-related CO2 emissions. It is important for me to partner with a company that prioritizes the health of our planet,” said Jessica Minh Anh.

IWG’s brand Spaces, Veestro, Warren Tricomi, scheimpflüg, Cream Ridgewood, Tone House, and Gotham Hotel were confirmed in the announcement as Anh’s selected partners for the show due to their prioritization of sustainable practices.

“We are very excited to join forces with Jessica Minh Anh in this historic project,” said Reiner Wolfs, Vice President and General Manager, Northeast Area, DHL Express U.S. “Her powerful message of motivating the younger generation to take action for a better future aligns perfectly with our vision for zero-emission logistics.”

Official fashion participants of the sustainable logistics fashion show will be released closer to the show’s debut.