The need for sustainable strategies in logistics has never been more evident. From low-emission transport solutions to innovative packaging concepts, there are numerous approaches when it comes to switching to green logistics and minimizing the environmental and social impact of supply chains. But what challenges does this transition entail and how can your company witness progress that is measurable and future-proof? In our Q&A, Tobias Ruscheweyh, Head of Branch at SupplyX, answers these and related questions.
How do sustainable logistics measures contribute to corporate social responsibility?
Tobias Ruscheweyh: Sustainable logistics measures contribute to corporate social responsibility in several ways, as they combine ecological and social aspects. On the one hand, they promote fair working conditions along the entire supply chain by taking into account the selection of partners and service providers who adhere to high standards – for example in terms of labor rights, safety and social responsibility. Secondly, by using sustainable transportation solutions, companies can conserve resources and reduce CO2 emissions. This benefits the environment as well as the people who suffer from the negative effects of climate change.
When companies invest in green logistics, their actions also send clear signals to the public that they are actively taking responsibility for the impact of their own business activities. This can not only strengthen brand reputation, but it can also win the trust of customers, partners and investors. Sustainable measures such as low-emission transportation, waste avoidance and support for local logistics initiatives contribute to a more environmentally friendly economy.
Tobias Ruscheweyh, Head of Branch at SupplyX
Companies can thus take pioneering roles in corporate social responsibility (CSR). A clear framework for these efforts are Science-Based Targets (SBT), which set scientifically defined goals for the reduction of greenhouse gases. Those who align themselves with such targets not only make a measurable contribution to climate protection, but also demonstrate a genuine commitment to a sustainable future. Transparent measures and clear actions stand testimony to the fact that companies are not only concerned about achieving targets, but about a genuine responsibility towards society and the environment.
- Find out more about this topic in our recent article “Big 5 of sustainability – strategies for responsible supply chains“
Can you name the specific challenges that arise when implementing green logistics in the pharmaceutical industry?
Tobias Ruscheweyh: Implementing green logistics in the pharmaceutical industry is particularly challenging, as the sector is subject to very strict regulatory requirements. An uninterrupted cold chain is essential in this context, and many medicines and vaccines may only be stored and transported within certain temperature ranges. Sustainable solutions such as low-emission refrigerated transportation are often caught between costs, technology availability and regulatory requirements.
- Please navigate here to find out more about the transportation of pharmaceutical goods
Packaging can also be quite a challenge, as pharmaceutical products often require special packaging that is not always easy to recycle. Innovative approaches such as biodegradable materials or reusable containers are required, as they ensure product safety and reduce environmental impact at the same time. Further, there is the fragmented global supply chain that can pose a significant challenge to companies. After all, the coordination of different partners, who may have different sustainability standards, requires a high level of transparency and effective digital solutions that measure emissions and optimize processes.
How can fashion and textile companies reduce their environmental impact through green logistics?
Tobias Ruscheweyh: Certainly, green logistics offers the opportunity to significantly reduce the ecological footprint in the fashion and textile industry, too. One approach is the optimization of transport routes. Planning efficient transport routes, using low-emission means of transportation such as electric vehicles or rail transport for onward carriage and the classic shift from air freight to sea freight have a positive effect on the carbon footprint. Bundling and consolidating shipments further reduces the environmental impact. Fashion companies can also make their warehousing and distribution processes more sustainable, for example by using energy-efficient logistics centers that run on renewable energy.
Last but not least, partnerships also play an important role in this context. Sustainable logistics service providers that rely on route optimization or consolidated deliveries help to reduce energy consumption and emissions in the supply chain. Ultimately, green logistics not only offers ecological benefits, but also promotes the image and attractiveness of brands that are consciously committed to sustainability.
How can progress in the implementation of sustainable logistics processes be measured and documented?
Tobias Ruscheweyh: It is not only important but also highly motivating for companies to understand the extent to which their sustainability efforts are paying off and then to communicate these credibly. A key step on this journey is to record and analyze relevant key performance indicators (KPIs), such as CO2 emissions, energy consumption, recycling rates or the use of renewable resources. For example, companies can monitor the efficiency of their transportation using key figures such as the capacity utilization of the means of transport, the number of kilometers driven per transported tonne or the CO2 emissions per transport unit. Progress can be made by improving route planning, using more environmentally friendly vehicles and integrating intermodal transport solutions. By using digital platforms, this data can be automatically collected and analyzed in order to identify trends and weak points.
In addition to the science-based targets already mentioned, companies can also rely on internationally recognized standards and certifications: For example, ISO 14001 (environmental management) or the Global Logistics Emissions Council (GLEC) Framework provide clear guidelines and benchmarks. The results can be published in sustainability reports, which fulfill legal requirements and make progress transparent to stakeholders.
What kind of obstacles may arise and how can SupplyX support the transition to green logistics?
Tobias Ruscheweyh: On the road to greater sustainability, companies are often confronted with a number of obstacles. These may include high investment costs for green technologies, a lack of transparency in complex supply chains and the challenge of reconciling their ecological and ethical efforts with economic requirements. In order to work with partners along the supply chain, many companies need to change their processes – a step that is often associated with uncertainty and resistance. In addition, there are still no uniform standards in many sectors, which makes it difficult to compare and implement sustainable processes.
SupplyX can make a significant contribution as a strategic partner. With our digital solutions, we create complete transparency in the supply chain and enable companies to measure their environmental performance in real time. Our platforms automate sustainable logistics processes – from route optimization to low-emission transport options. By using advanced data analytics and innovative technologies such as AI, we help companies make informed decisions and minimize their environmental footprint in a targeted manner. At the same time, we offer the flexibility needed to adapt sustainability initiatives to the specific requirements of different industries. Our aim is to establish sustainability not just as a goal, but as an integral part of the logistics strategy.
Mr. Ruscheweyh, thank you very much for the interview.
Further Q&As on the topic of logistics and supply chain management
- What advantages does the China – Europe rail link offer for the transportation of goods?
- How does Supply Chain Visibility contribute to the optimization of logistics processes?
- How does the Booking Control Tower help to secure transportation?
- Loading and packaging – what to do with oversized consignments?
- How can companies benefit from Order Transparency?
You ask – we answer!
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