The recent heatwave has once again brought the impact of climate change to the forefront of conversations throughout UK industries. And with scientists predicting that similar heatwaves could now occur every three years, strategies to tackle climate change have very much been put into action.
For the freight industry, sustainability has been a key focus for many years now due to the nature of our work and the impact it has on the environment. But we mustn’t focus solely on our business (although this is highly important); instead our efforts should span the entire supply chain to make the biggest difference to our carbon footprint.
What are the benefits of a sustainable supply chain?
Reduce environmental impact
Whilst a relatively obvious benefit, the most significant benefit of a sustainable supply chain is in reducing the impact your operations has on the environment. Heavy Goods Vehicles (HGVs) accounted for 18% of road transport emissions in 2019; however, more and more freight providers are looking at ways in which they can diversify their fleet to make it more environmentally friendly, including electric vehicles, investment in new technologies and driving practices.
A positive business reputation
More and more, prospective clients are looking at a business’ efforts in corporate social responsibility. Actively pursuing improvements to the supply chain and its impact on the environment will go a very long way in building a great reputation for your business. Furthermore, by ignoring the environmental impact of your business’ operations, you run the risk of damaging your company’s reputation.
Reduced costs
There is a common misconception that it will be hugely expensive to incorporate the necessary changes to reduce your business’ environmental impact, however much of the time these changes also improve efficiencies and reduce waste, leading to significant savings longer term.
Improving supply chain sustainability
There are numerous ways to achieve sustainability on a business level and throughout the wider supply chain. Here are just some of the ways that the freight industry is improving sustainability:
Identify issues
First and foremost, businesses are taking an in-depth look at their supply chain and identifying where the issues lie with regards to sustainability.
Reduce fuel consumption
A crucial component but also one that will ensure cost savings is reducing fuel consumption of freight vehicles. Many are adopting Safe and Fuel Efficient Driving (SAFED) instruction to reduce emissions as well as investing in vehicles themselves to improve aerodynamics.
Communicate with suppliers
Making environmental impact a big part of conversation with your suppliers can make that crucial difference. Could you work together? Offer guidance? Share contacts? The possibilities are endless.
Want to learn more about how Grace Overseas is improving supply chain sustainability? Contact us today on
