Sustainability is trendy. Green changes in the supply chain or sustainability and environmental improvement initiatives are now helping to make the supply chain more eco-friendly.  Born as a result of increasing global concern over imminent climate change, the shipping industry is now taking its role more seriously. Green changes in the supply chain have become necessary if not critical as is evidenced by the Paris Agreement, which Kenya is a part of.

 

The Paris Agreement was signed by a record 175 countries with each pledging to make every effort to cut down global greenhouse emissions. Shippers and freight forwarders have followed suit and taken steps to address some of the environmental issues and negative practices that are caused by and are affecting the industry. Case in point, On Friday 13th, 2018, the International Maritime Organization’s Marine Environment Protection Committee (MEPC) agreed for the first time to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from global shipping during the 72nd session held at the company headquarters.

The landmark deal was signed at a meeting held at the United Nations International Maritime Organization (IMO) in London. The participants agreed to adopt the first in a long line of strategies to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from ships.

Green opportunities in the logistics industry are now abundant and freight forwarding companies such as Sidoman are embracing sustainable and green changes in the supply chain not only to protect the environment but also as a way to save money. It is imperative to remember that sustainability is not just vital for the sake of the environment; every penny that is saved as a result of instituting and enforcing green changes in the supply chain results in profitability.

Freight forwarders are now implementing green changes and adopting eco-friendly policies that govern how they conduct business. From working to reduce the consumption of energy, as well as carbon emissions to using eco-friendly packaging and adopting enhanced warehouse management systems, green changes in the supply chain are abound.

Green changes in the supply chain that make shipping Eco-friendly

Reduced mileage and traveling distances

To mitigate the green issues that surround the supply chain in the logistics industry, every effort is being taken to reduce traveling distances of cargo. Manufacturers are now more accepting of sourcing their materials from local suppliers instead of sourcing them abroad.

For instance, rather than get your materials from China which will result in a longer distance traveled, consider getting what you need locally if you can. Consumers are also being encouraged to hire local freight forwarding services as opposed to international ones so that the miles that are spent on delivery can be reduced.

Use of Eco-friendly packaging

Freight forwarders and businesses in the shipping have started using packaging materials that are greener and friendlier to the environment. Because shippers and their customers are now relying on recycled on reusable materials, the instances of waste are reduced considerably which consequently helps to make the logistics industry Eco-friendlier.

The use of enhanced warehouse management software

Today’s warehouse management software is more advanced than ever thanks to improved and continued technological advancements in the freight sector. Updated warehouse management software helps to give warehouse stock managers insight into what is needed where and when, which in turn helps to improve efficiency. Additionally, when efficiency is improved, it also helps to manage the use of company resources and assets, thereby reducing overall company waste.

Enhanced driver performance

Long distance truck drivers are subjected to traveling extremely long distances which can force them to be away from home for weeks or days on end. Shipping and freight companies must do everything to ensure that the safety and welfare of drivers is maintained at all times. This will help to reduce unhealthy lifestyles that can be debilitating for the driver’s health as well as his or her capacity to drive carefully. When fewer accidents occur on the road, waste can be alleviated.

Improved fleet performance

In addition, freight services are also working to improve fleet performance by using GPS fleet tracking solutions. These solutions come in handy when freight forwarders need to gather information about the driver’s habits with the aim of improving efficient fuel consumption, as well as regular vehicle maintenance.

Choosing FCL over LCL

Both shippers and their customers can reduce the amount of container transporting cargo at any one time by opting to use FCLs (Full Container Loads) in place of LCLs (Less Than Container Loads. By using FCLs, the carbon footprint will have been reduced and the supply chain will become more efficient as a result.

Conclusion

There is still a long way to go but the green changes being made in the supply chain are a great place for the shipping and logistics sector to get started. If you’re looking to send your cargo abroad, Sidoman utilizes efficient freight services through road, sea or air. If you would like to know how to get started, why don’t you get in touch with us today? The sideman team is always on standby waiting to answer your questions or help you in any way. Call us today!