Page 35 - ITLN November - December 2024

warehousing solutions now integrate and performance across India’s
Internet of Things (IoT) sensors and varied climate,” says Nadamani of
artificial intelligence to optimise space Ecom Express.
utilisation, reduce waste, and minimise The path ahead is clear –
environmental impact. Companies are sustainability in supply chains is not only
implementing rainwater harvesting an environmental necessity but also a
systems, green building materials, and key competitive advantage. Government
natural ventilation techniques to create initiatives, such as the Production
eco-friendly logistics spaces. Intelligent Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme for
climate control systems use predictive electric vehicles and renewable energy,
algorithms to manage temperature and are driving the transition forward.
humidity, reducing energy consumption Additionally, the digital transformation
while maintaining optimal storage in Indian logistics is playing a crucial
conditions for various goods. Waste role in advancing sustainability efforts.
management has also become a Advanced route optimisation algorithms
critical focus, with modern warehouses are enabling companies to cut fuel
implementing comprehensive recycling consumption by up to 20%, while IoT
programmes, converting organic waste sensors and real-time tracking systems
into compost, and developing closed- are minimising waste through improved
loop systems that minimise the overall inventory management.
Ecom Express's electric 3-wheeler environmental footprint.
shipment delivery vehicle Economic benefits of going green
Challenges and future outlook The business case for sustainable
(FMCG), manufacturing, engineering, Despite progress, challenges remain. supply chains is becoming
procurement, and construction The high initial cost of sustainable increasingly clear. According to
(EPC), and pharmaceuticals, are technologies, the fragmented nature Wipro, companies can reduce costs
progressively adopting integrated of the Indian logistics sector, and by 20-30% by transitioning to a
packaging solutions. infrastructure gaps continue to sustainable supply chain. Additionally,
The integration of technology into pose challenges. “One of the key sustainable practices are opening
packaging is a major game-changer. challenges we face at Ecom Express doors to international markets
Smart packaging solutions, like QR is the infrastructure limitations, where environmental credentials
codes and NFC technology, enable especially regarding the availability are prerequisites for business
brands to connect with consumers, and accessibility of recyclable partnerships. The potential for
offer product information, and materials for packaging. While we creating new revenue streams through
enhance the overall customer have made significant strides with innovative sustainable solutions,
experience, it mentions. green packaging, switching to eco- coupled with government incentives
friendly alternatives for plastic seals, and tax benefits for green investments,
Warehouse sustainability canvas bags, and flyers, the initial makes sustainability a strategic
Modern warehousing in India is cost of sourcing these materials can economic opportunity. Sustainable
undergoing its green revolution. Solar be high. Similarly, integrating electric supply chains can create opportunities
panels now power multiple fulfilment and CNG vehicles into our fleet for new partnerships.
centres across the country. Advanced involves managing maintenance The Indian government's National
Logistics Policy, launched in 2022, has
created frameworks for public-private
partnerships in developing green
logistics infrastructure.
The journey toward sustainable
supply chains in India is gathering
momentum, driven by a combination
of environmental necessity, economic
opportunity, and technological
innovation. For India's logistics
sector, the path forward is clear –
sustainability is not just about being
green, it's about being future-ready.
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