Dimithri Perera

GREENING SRI LANKA’S WAY

Exploring innovative practices and challenges in eco-friendly logistics

Sri Lanka’s potential as a sustainable logistics hub
It has made progress – but it has some way to go.

Challenges
Implementing eco-friendly logistics practices involves embracing newer technologies that provide environmental solutions and working with stakeholders who prioritise sustainability.

Latest trends in renewable energy in logistics
Solar, wind, biofuel, hydro and geothermal energy.

Their applications
Making sustainable aviation fuel (SAF), electric vehicles (EVs) and energy efficient buildings.

Trends
Circular economic activities, and smart grid and energy management systems.

Sustainable supply chain optimisation
Sustaining a fine balance between environmental, social and economic objectives – due to the lack of end-to-end visibility, compliance and data management – is most important.

How logistics companies reduce their carbon footprint
Through decarbonisation, burning less and clean, and by removing existing CO2 emissions to reach carbon neutrality.

This can be achieved by…
Focussing on a comprehensive accounting of Scope 1, 2 and 3 product emissions.

How supply chain optimisation contributes to sustainability
Optimising supply chains boosts productivity, reduces waste and energy consumption, and minimises resource use, leading to environmental benefits and cost savings. 

Benefits of renewable energy in logistics
Apart from positive contributions to the environment, renewable energy offers economic benefits and helps regulatory compliance.

Renewable energy-corporate respect nexus
Renewable energy helps companies enhance their corporate reputation and meet market demand.

Sustainable packaging
By using sustainable packaging that is recyclable and biodegradable, made from materials that are renewable and compostable, logistics companies can meet environmental standards.

Impact of last mile delivery on environmental sustainability
If last mile delivery is inefficient, there can be negative impacts from delivery routes that are not optimised.

Mitigating inefficient deliveries
Inefficient deliveries generate high carbon emissions; to this end, sustainable methods such as using EVs, bicycle deliveries, collection points and auto­mated lockers reduce negative impacts.

Strategies to boost fuel efficiency
Until full electrification, biofuels from energy crops and industrial waste can reduce CO2 emissions and promote cleaner combustion.

Challenges of implementing green practices
High costs, limited green technology and complex logistics adjustments hinder the widespread adoption of green logistics.

Role of technology and automation in sustainability
AI optimises delivery routes, thereby reducing fuel use and emissions. Meanwhile, warehouse automation minimises energy use and material waste.

Contribution of reverse logistics to sustainability
Reverse logistics plays an essential role in both e-commerce and the circular economy, showcasing how circular practices can become the rule and not the exception.

Importance of this practice
At a time when businesses are setting ambitious sustainability targets, reverse logistics facilitates circularity, promoting sustainability goals.

Benefits of sustainable materials
Sustainable materials reduce environmental impacts, enhance brand reputation and lower long-term costs, attracting eco-conscious consumers.

Reporting on environmental impacts
Carbon reporting quantifies greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions – including Scopes 1, 2 and 3 – helping companies understand their carbon footprint.

Promoting sustainable logistics
Setting standards and guidelines for environmental practices, incentivising green technologies through subsidies and tax breaks, and enforcing compliance with environmental laws.

Stakeholder collaboration in improving sustainability
Improved stakeholder relationships can elevate sustainable logistics. Shared goals, joint training and open communication enhance collaboration in sustainability.

How stakeholders can push for improvements
By repeatedly demanding that the logistics sector offers the most comprehensive portfolio of green solutions that can minimise carbon emissions without compromising supply chains.

Vision for Sri Lanka’s logistics sector
Logistics companies should use eco-friendly technologies, implement sustainable practices, and collaborate with government, industry and academia.

Mantra for success
Integrity – I cannot stress enough its importance in building a reputation for success.

– Compiled by Dona Senara