With the help of this bachelor thesis, the development from logistics to green logistics is presented. Furthermore, the differences in the objectives are shown. Based on the work, it is illustrated whether the entrepreneurs are aware of the current environmental situation. Furthermore, measures are addressed that can be implemented in the companies. These measures are intended to increase transport efficiency in the long term and provide guidance on how to make logistics more environmentally friendly.
Globalization and the increasing number of transports have a negative impact on the environment. The environmental impact results primarily from the CO2 emissions caused in the process. However, the results also show that companies are willing to make their supply chain "greener" and take action accordingly.
In the literature, some reasons are given why the implementation of green logistics is inevitable. As a conclusion, it can be seen that green logistics will play an important role in the future, as companies themselves want to act more sustainably.
Table of Contents
1 INTRODUCTION
1.1 Problem statement
1.2 Objective
1.3 Approach / Methodology
2 FUNDAMENTALS OF GREEN LOGISTICS
2.1 Definition of logistics
2.2 Definition of green logistics
2.3 Importance of green logistics in companies
3 CHANGE ASPECTS FOR COMPANIES THROUGH GREEN LOGISTICS
3.1 Strategic and operational measures
3.1.1 Truck transport
3.1.2 Rail transport
3.1.3 Combined transport
3.1.4 Ship freight
3.1.5 airfreight
3.1.6 Software improvements
3.1.7 Delivery concepts
3.2 Technological measures
3.2.1 Truck transport
3.2.2 navigation
3.2.3 Environmentally friendly buildings
3.3 Supply Chain: Product Carbon Footprint
3.3.1 Benefits of the Product Carbon Footprint
3.3.2 Limits of the Product Carbon Footprint
3.4 Application of green logistics in companies
3.4.1 Hermes
3.4.2 DB Schenker
4 ROLE OF THE GOVERNMENT IN GREEN LOGISTICS
4.1 Government catalogue of measures
4.2 Existing programs in the U.S. and U.K.
5 OBSTACLES AND BENEFITS OF GREEN LOGISTICS
5.1 The obstacles to the implementation of green logistics
5.1.1 Cost
5.1.2 Time factor
5.1.3 Reliability factor
5.1.4 Stocks
5.1.5 Other distribution channels
5.2 The benefits of the successful implementation of green logistics
5.2.1 Economic or ecological benefits for the company
5.2.2 Image improvement of the company
6 CONCLUSION
Objectives and Key Themes
This thesis examines the evolution of logistics towards green logistics, investigating how companies are adapting to environmental challenges. The research aims to identify strategic, operational, and technological measures that improve transportation efficiency and sustainability, while evaluating the obstacles and potential benefits of implementing a greener supply chain.
- Evolution of traditional logistics to sustainable green logistics
- Strategic and operational measures for transport optimization
- Technological innovations in shipping and building management
- The role of the Product Carbon Footprint (PCF) in supply chains
- Economic and ecological drivers for corporate adoption
Excerpt from the Book
3.1.2 Rail transport
Rail transport is a good alternative for road transport and contributes greatly to the reduction of CO2 Emissions at (Sadowski 2010, 19).
It is also clear that companies are interested in switching to rail transport, but only very few have a rail connection to the rail network. There is interest in this, but there is also a need for action. An expansion of the rail network can be very cost-intensive (Wittenbrink 2011, 161).
Therefore, the freight forwarders see the criticisms in this means of transport that there is a low flexibility and one is dependent on an existing rail network. In addition, the costs are comparatively high when transporting small quantities (Wittenbrink 2011, 162f).
Rail transport is therefore the only means of transport without a clear quality feature. Road transport is considered to be very flexible and cost-effective. The ship freight has an enormous cost advantage over the other means of transport and the air freight is considered extremely fast. Nevertheless, there is a tendency towards the use of rail freight and also towards combined transport by truck, because the companies want to transport more consciously (Pfohl 2010, 157).
Summary of Chapters
1 INTRODUCTION: Outlines the problem statement regarding environmental impact in logistics and defines the scope and methodology of the research.
2 FUNDAMENTALS OF GREEN LOGISTICS: Defines key terms like logistics and green logistics, and establishes why sustainability has become a critical priority for modern companies.
3 CHANGE ASPECTS FOR COMPANIES THROUGH GREEN LOGISTICS: Discusses various strategic, operational, and technological measures, including transport modes, software solutions, and the implementation of the Product Carbon Footprint.
4 ROLE OF THE GOVERNMENT IN GREEN LOGISTICS: Examines how public policy, including taxation and incentive programs in the US and UK, influences corporate adoption of green practices.
5 OBSTACLES AND BENEFITS OF GREEN LOGISTICS: Analyzes the challenges such as costs and reliability versus the advantages like image improvement and long-term economic gains.
6 CONCLUSION: Synthesizes findings, emphasizing that green logistics is a necessary long-term trend for industry survival and competitiveness.
Keywords
Green Logistics, Sustainability, Supply Chain, CO2 Emissions, Carbon Footprint, Transport Optimization, Strategic Measures, Environmental Protection, Corporate Image, Logistics Technology, Combined Transport, Economic Benefits, Ecological Goals, Regulatory Framework, Climate Change
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary focus of this thesis?
The work explores the transition from traditional logistics to green logistics, focusing on how companies can minimize their environmental footprint while maintaining operational efficiency.
What are the central thematic fields?
The core themes include transport mode selection, technological improvements, the use of Carbon Footprints for measurement, and the socio-economic drivers behind sustainable supply chain management.
What is the main objective of the research?
The goal is to determine the strategic and operational measures available for green logistics, as well as the obstacles companies face and the benefits they can expect from implementation.
Which scientific method is used?
The thesis is based on a comprehensive literature study, drawing from books, academic articles, and official publications from logistics companies.
What does the main part of the thesis cover?
The main body details specific transport measures (truck, rail, ship, air), technological innovations, the role of government regulations, and case studies of companies like Hermes and DB Schenker.
Which keywords characterize this work?
Key terms include Green Logistics, Supply Chain, Carbon Footprint, CO2 reduction, and sustainable strategic management.
What are the limits of the Product Carbon Footprint mentioned?
The text notes that calculation standards vary internationally, and it is not always suitable or useful for every product, necessitating careful consideration before implementation.
Why are Hermes and DB Schenker mentioned?
They serve as real-world examples of how large logistics providers are actively integrating green strategies, such as fleet modernization and route planning, to achieve sustainability targets.
What role does the government play?
Governments act as facilitators through taxation, regulations, and financial incentives, encouraging companies to shift towards environmentally friendly transport infrastructures.
- Citation du texte
- Tabea Massak (Auteur), 2014, Green Logistics. Strategies, measures and the emerging benefits for companies in the context of green logistics, Munich, GRIN Verlag, https://www.grin.com/document/1170850
