CEVA is urging the logistics industry to work collectively together to develop global standards for providing sustainable logistic services.
    Speaking at the 27th German Logistics Congress in Berlin, CEVA chief executive John Pattullo highlighted the logistics sector was accountable for over five per cent of all greenhouse gas emissions and called for collaborative industry action.
    "In recent years many countries have issued environmental legislation targeting businesses. However, following Copenhagen, we still have no global agreement or clear global targets. Since consistent state regulations are not to be expected anytime soon, all those involved within logistics need to work collectively to develop globally accepted regulations," said Mr Pattullo.
    He noted that a "complex network of regulations" is currently an obstacle for logistics companies in establishing a sustainable supply chain. Voluntary agreements to reduce emissions he said are only active in some regions of the world and the logistics industry would therefore benefit from the development of "consistent global guidelines."
    "Sustainable logistics is not necessarily a management top priority, and in today's economy, many customers are unwilling to pay a premium for green transport. Despite these obstacles the logistics industry must support change towards sustainable services," said Mr Pattullo.
    A founding member of the Alliance for European Logistics (AEL), CEVA said it is currently working with other global players and policy makers to develop consistent regulations for the transport and logistics sector. The initiative is financing research and transport related efforts to effectively and efficiently reduce carbon dioxide emissions. 
    "In the recent past we were able to considerably improve the achievements of our customers through 'green' procurement and innovative solutions along the entire supply chain. CEVA will further increase the measurement of CO2 consumption at the base level. Ultimately, we are committed to working together with our customers and peers to agree to a consistent and business case based approach."

Source: shipping online