Solutions for Cleaner and Greener Supply Chains

Firms that are implementing sustainable logistics methods are in a better position to meet customer demand for environmentally responsible products and services, increase customer loyalty, save costs, and enhance brand recognition.

S Gurdeep Singh, Chairman & Founder, Jujhar Group.

A country's substantial and structured logistics suggests an efficient forward and reverse flow of products and services, which eventually leads to rapid economic growth. The National Logistics Policy (NLP) intends to reduce India's logistics costs from 13-14% of its GDP to 8-9% by 2030. Farming, assets, and e-commerce are key income contributors to the logistics business.

The high cost of logistics is a major impediment to commerce and competition, as well as a considerable economic burden. Besides the high expenses, the logistics industry has a substantial adverse environmental impact. To solve these issues, the logistics industry must implement strategies that minimize costs and reduce its negative environmental effect, while increasing efficiency and competitiveness.

Climate change will have a huge impact on financial assets and inflation as a result of supply stocks induced by food and energy shortages, resulting in price volatility. In India, the logistics business is valued at INR 11 lakh crore and is predicted to expand fairly. Its objective is to reduce carbon emission in the supply chain processes. Collaboration across all stakeholders and considering the measures below can make this vision a reality.

EV for reduced emission and cost saving: Use of electric vehicles (EVs), battery -and green hydrogen-powered trucks will promote sustainable logistics due to their cost-effectiveness, reduced emissions, and improved efficiency. However, limited charging infrastructure and high initial purchase costs are impeding EV adoption in India. Overcoming these challenges would necessitate investment from both the public and commercial sectors in the establishment of a vast network of EV charging stations.


Sustainable warehouse practices: Logistical operations such as warehouses and distribution facilities have a substantial adverse environmental impact. These facilities need a lot of energy for lighting, heating, and cooling, and they also produce a lot of trash from packing materials and other operations.

Last mile shipping: Last-mile shipping is the final link in the logistics chain, and frequently necessitates the employment of fossil-fuel-powered trucks. Using alternate modes of transportation such as electric bikes or walking deliveries can help decrease carbon emissions.

Sustainable measures: These include urging suppliers to use environmentally friendly packaging and to optimize delivery routes.

The logistics industry in India is expected to experience substantial growth in the coming years. Supply chain sustainability will be driven by innovation during this period. Adopting a holistic approach that includes various aspects of the supply chain, such as implementing green technologies, reducing waste and emissions, encouraging use of alternative fuels and modes of transportation, and implementing circular economy practices, will make logistics more sustainable. Companies need to proactively embrace initiatives that create a more environmentally sustainable, robust, and a resilient supply chain landscape.