Climate change, the overexploitation and depletion of natural resources, waste generation, pollution, and the loss of biodiversity are issues usually studied from an ecological standpoint. However, economists have also begun to analyze these problems, seeking viable and sustainable solutions.
Green Logistics: An Economic Approach
Through so-called green logistics —which involves the use of environmentally friendly processes in supply chains— some research has focused on providing solutions to reduce the environmental impact generated by the transportation and movement of goods. Most companies seek to optimize their operations at the lowest possible cost, but some links in the production chain (manufacturing, packaging, transportation, warehousing, and distribution) have caused serious environmental problems.
The Impact of Transportation and Green Logistics
Transportation is the area with the greatest environmental impact. For this reason, green logistics works to reduce dependence on fossil energy and, consequently, to mitigate greenhouse gas emissions. It also focuses on implementing actions such as recycling, proper waste disposal, and the optimization of resources in every process.
Dr. David Bonilla Vargas, of the Institute of Economic Research at UNAM, explains that green logistics seeks to incorporate improvements that yield environmental benefits throughout the entire production chain. This concept began to be used in the 1990s in the United States, initially adopted by corporations and automotive companies seeking to comply with environmental legislation and save on the management of their supply chains.
Challenges and Proposals for Mexico
In Mexico, there is no legislation that incentivizes the use of green logistics among companies. Nevertheless, Dr. Bonilla Vargas suggests that companies could apply green logistics criteria through the use of smaller, more efficient transportation and the strategic location of distribution centers near consumption hubs. It would also be beneficial to transport as many goods as possible per trip and to properly maintain vehicles in order to reduce pollutant emissions.
Limitations and the Future of Green Logistics
Currently, large companies are the ones with the greatest capacity to adopt green logistics, thanks to their resources and the need to remain competitive globally. In contrast, small businesses face significant challenges due to high production costs and a lack of technological resources. The State should provide more support to these companies so that they can innovate technologically and adopt green logistics practices.
REFERENCES:
Cordova, D. G., Flores, E. N., García, R. R., & Salvador, J. C. R. (n.d.). Logística verde, el aporte de los economistas frente a la crisis ambiental. Ciencia UNAM. Retrieved July 24, 2024, from https://ciencia.unam.mx/leer/1451/logistica-verde-el-aporte-de-los-economistas-frente-a-la-crisis-ambiental
