The Importance of Sustainable Supply Chains

Regardless of the sector you operate in, supply chains are a key component when it comes to implementing sustainable, eco-conscious practices.

As things stand, 60% of all carbon emissions globally are generated by supply chains. Pretty impressive, right? This is why more and more organisations are trying to change their ways to stop unnecessary pollution and environmentally unfriendly operations.

Introducing sustainable practices in your supply chain extends beyond just using recycled materials. Instead, it means creating a process that minimises your business’s environmental impact, looks after the wellbeing of your team, and allows you to go about your day-to-day activities with transparency.

But in what way do supply chain and sustainability go hand in hand? And how can you foster a sustainable supply chain management process? 

Why Sustainability is Important in Supply Chains 

There are many reasons why sustainability holds such a crucial role in today’s supply chains.

One of the most noticeable benefits is that it helps reduce your company’s carbon footprint, meaning you are playing an active part in safeguarding the wellbeing of your surroundings. With governments across the globe pushing to reach net zero by a set year, implementing sustainable practices within your business can help everyone row in the right direction.

That said, it is not exclusively about going green. A supply chain designed around being more eco-conscious can create more sustainable partnership opportunities. 

Environmental responsibility is a fundamental focal point in modern industries. If you practice eco-awareness in every aspect of your business, you are more likely to form better relationships with stakeholders and customers. This can improve your reputation while further legitimising your brand and organisation in the eyes of partners and customers. 

Supply chains and sustainability work well together when it comes to finances, too. Optimising your processes can help minimise waste, which in turn can save you precious money. 

Also, by investing in sustainable techniques and resources, you can actively enhance the efficiency of your building, equipment, and even vehicles, boosting your productivity levels and cutting costs month-on-month.

Shipping Containers Role in Sustainability

Shipping containers form the cornerstone of international trade with 80% of all international shipping volume volume transported by sea freight. 

Sea freight – and its accompanying shipping containers – are considered a more energy efficient mode of transportation due to the vessel’s abilities to transport goods at large volume. It also compares favourably with road and air freight in terms of lower average emissions. 

Hiring a shipping container is also a sustainable option with containers likely used multiple times over the course of their lifetime. This removes any disposal costs while the initial financial outlay is often less.   

How to Implement a Sustainable Supply Chain 

Introducing a sustainable supply chain from scratch may seem a bit daunting at first. But the reality is that creating an eco-friendlier process isn’t that difficult. 

It only takes a few simple steps to rejig your practices and align them to your eco-conscious targets. Here are a few tips on how to implement a sustainable supply chain for your business: 

Identify your objectives 

Start by pinpointing potential sustainable goals for your supply chain. Jot down your ideas, review the most feasible, and create a plan for achieving them. 

Create a sustainability policy 

Set up a policy that outlines your business’s stance on sustainability while also including things you expect your suppliers and customers to abide by. This could be anything from appropriate waste disposal to sensible energy use and transportation.  

Evaluate your current processes 

Take a look at your supply chain processes. Are they as sustainable as can be? What can be improved? This little exercise can give you a better idea of where and how to intervene.

Start making amends 

Once you have established a plan and know what you want to change (and how), it is time to take action and make your processes more eco-conscious. This could be anything from partnering with different suppliers who share your values to changing transportation options or tweaking current production practices.

Ways to Improve Sustainability 

As mentioned, kickstarting a more sustainable supply chain isn’t as scary as it sounds. There are simple steps you can take to move you in the right direction without much trouble.

What does this look like in practical terms? Let’s look at some ways to improve your sustainability efforts in the supply chain that can be put into place (almost) from day one.

• Reduce waste – Using recycled materials or reusing containers, pallets, and other items can be a great way to minimise waste. You may also want to partner with responsible recycling facilities to ensure proper waste disposal.
• Strive for energy efficiency – From investing in renewable energy sources to implementing energy-saving tech for your equipment, there are several ways you can enhance your business’s energy efficiency. Even simple practices such as turning off lights and unused machinery can contribute to your sustainable efforts.
• Optimise logistics and transportation – Plan efficient delivery routes to minimise distances and prevent excessive fuel consumption. You may also want to combine small shipments into a larger one to save on unnecessary multiple trips.
• Educate your workers – Training your employees is also an effective step to drive your goals forward. When conscious of the importance of sustainable practices at every level of the supply chain, workers can give you a precious hand when it comes to hitting those eco-friendly targets.  
• Invest in sustainable storage space – Need room for your products and items? Investing in sustainable storage space, such as shipping containers, can work wonders for your efforts. Shipping containers are made from steel, meaning they are durable, reliable, and have a long lifespan. This also means you won’t have to waste resources on constructing specific rooms or buildings to keep your items safe and organised.

If you want to learn more about the role of shipping containers in making your business – and its supply chain – more sustainable, feel free to get in touch. At Cleveland Containers, we are always on hand to answer any questions!