Sustainable logistics is becoming the "new normal"

Sustainable logistics is becoming the "new normal"
Despite the ongoing instability caused by the Corona crisis, one of the top issues for logistics decision-makers is sustainability.

But given the current obstacles, how do companies manage to become "greener"? The good news is that it's not necessary to reorganize the entire supply chain.

Companies can take small steps to create positive environmental impacts and gradually make their supply chain sustainable. In several industries, the current crisis is seen as a catalyst for innovation. New solutions are also needed in the logistics industry. It is crucial to respond quickly to current difficulties while meeting the growing demands for environmental and climate protection.

Sustainable supply chain as a competitive factor

Companies need to integrate environmental and social parameters into their target systems and include them in their decisions in order to remain competitive in the long term. As a result, many companies are discussing alternative "green" strategies. The focus is naturally on the CO2-intensive transport sector, especially on long transport routes, such as between Asia and Europe. Companies are therefore considering how they can act in a more environmentally friendly way.

A digital disposition solution ensures transparency and efficiency - also in local traffic

Today, digital strategies and solutions are indispensable for the sustainable control of complicated logistics processes and for better planning of tours and capacities. The implementation does not have to be expensive: Service providers such as Swynoo provide the necessary infrastructure as a software-as-a-service solution. Swynoo supports companies in coordinating scheduling and can be used to better utilize transport capacities and avoid empty runs, for example. This saves money on gasoline, relieves traffic and protects the environment.

CO2 balance as a starting point for greater sustainability

An inventory or analysis of the existing situation makes sense in any case. After all, calculating one's own CO2 footprint provides companies with valuable information for uncovering optimization opportunities and thus improving their carbon footprint. Companies that have already taken this step often make faster progress towards "green" logistics than their less active competitors - and at lower cost.

Step-by-step guide to long-term supply chain management

Of course, no supply chain can simply be "greened," but there are a variety of approaches to making a supply chain more sustainable in theory. The key is to discover the right levers within your own organization, establish alternatives to existing processes, and gradually transform SCM.

On the one hand, it is a matter of sustainably optimizing modes of transport as well as packaging; on the other hand, the requirements for traceability, transparency and compliance are increasing. Companies must incorporate environmental sustainability into the design and management of their logistics processes, collaborate with forward-looking partners, and look ahead to remain competitive. Green logistics and sustainability are no longer optional obligations but will become the "new normal" in the future, making them relevant to competition.