Now more than ever, businesses from all over the world – not just in the UK – are seeking ways to reduce their carbon footprint and operate more sustainably.
While there are various things you can do, like using natural light instead of relying on artificial lighting and implementing recycling policies, one such trend revolutionising the logistics and supply chain industries is green warehousing.
A green warehouse aims to minimise environmental impact by implementing strategies that reduce energy consumption, waste generation, and operating costs while promoting environmental responsibility.
But the question is, how can this trend shape logistics and supply chains for years to come?
Read on to find out!
1. Sustainable logistics
To remain competitive and responsible, companies must adopt and expand their sustainable practices.
From storing and managing inventory to picking, packing, and shipping goods, green warehouses make it easier for businesses to integrate green logistics and optimise their warehouse operations.
Thanks to advances in technology (including Artificial Intelligence), green warehouse facilities are likely to remain at the forefront of the logistics industry’s efforts to reduce environmental impact for a long time.
2. Renewable energy sources
Warehouses are notorious energy consumers – especially those that require controlled temperatures and ambient conditions.
However, instead of relying on traditional energy sources, green warehouses use renewable energy sources, such as wind turbines and rooftop solar panels, to power all systems and charge electric vehicles and forklift trucks.
LED lights and energy-efficient heating systems can also help to reduce energy consumption, resulting in lower utility bills. Plus, they contribute to a healthier and safer work environment for employees and demonstrate commitment to environmental sustainability.
3. Recycling resources
Most green warehouses adopt the 3R (reduce, reuse, and recycle) approach to manage their waste.
Instead of using traditional packaging materials like single-use plastic, they opt for reusable alternatives and biodegradable materials that are cheaper to produce and better for the environment.
By doing so, less waste is sent to the landfill, which cuts disposal costs and benefits the environment by reducing greenhouse gas emissions and pollution.
4. Smarter transportation
Green warehousing goes way beyond storage – it’s about optimising delivery routes and using low-emission transportation to lower fuel consumption and costs.
Carefully planning routes with the latest technology will save money on fuel and time on the open road, as will bulk deliveries.
Investing in fuel-efficient vehicles and incorporating EV charging stations are not just a nod to green logistics, but a significant step towards eco-friendly supply chain operations. They can help to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and drivers can charge their vehicles up before long journeys, using the energy generated from the solar panels on the roof of the green warehouse.
Stay ahead of the curve with John K. Philips
John K. Philips is one of the longest-standing transportation companies in the North West region of England, offering over 50 years of experience.
Our carbon-neutral headquarters in Warrington are ideally located between Junction 8 and Junction 9 of the M62. Here, we offer integrated green logistics solutions, which means our team can help with everything from storage and distribution management to packing and transportation.
We provide a barcoding service to ensure every item that enters our warehouse is traceable, and we use the latest technology for real-time tracking, optimised route planning, and efficient inventory management.
With solar panels covering 80% of our 135,000 sq. ft green warehouse, 20 charging stations, and more investment in electric vehicles planned, we do everything we can to reduce our environmental footprint at John K. Philips.
To learn more about our green warehouse and sustainable warehouse services, we’d love to hear from you.
Why not give us a call on 01744 751 000? Or, if you prefer, send over your details with an online contact form and we’ll get back to you as soon as possible.