
Track 19 - Green Innovations in Transport and Logistics Systems: Transforming Supply Chains for Sustainable Development
Track leaders:
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Aaron Luntala Nsakanda, Sprott School of Business, Carleton University, Canada
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Marcia Mkansi, University of South Africa, South Africa
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Godfrey Muguruzi, Norwegian University of Science & Technology, Norway
The United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) and the 23rd conference of the parties (CoP23) have recognized the urgent global challenge posed by CO2 emissions. This recognition underscores the immediate need for innovative systems on a global scale to address the overexploitation of non-renewable natural resources, unsustainable consumption patterns, detrimental effects of current modes of production, and other issues that threaten the triple bottom line. The urgency of this situation cannot be overstated, and it is crucial that we act now to prevent further damage. One area of focus has been the transformation of supply chain practices that negatively impact the environment and worsen poverty and social inequalities. For example, freight transportation, including warehousing and ports, accounts for up to 11% of global greenhouse gas emissions and emits over 20% of the world's black carbon. If current practices persist, it is predicted that freight transportation will be the largest contributor to greenhouse gas emissions by 2050. Overall, supply chains generate approximately 60% of all carbon emissions globally. Therefore, addressing supply chain sustainability is essential to achieving net zero.
Green innovation, also known in the literature as environmental innovation or eco-innovation, challenges this situation and offers the opportunity to change the course of socioeconomic inequalities and environmental degradation towards sustainable transformation. Green innovation promises to safeguard the environment and, in some cases, reverse past harmful environmental trends. It has, therefore, become a focal point for research and practice in various fields. The supply chain management discipline employs digital technologies as a contemporary approach to tackle sustainability-related development and supply chain challenges. This includes innovation and technology that promotes well-being and sustainability and the development of models and data policies for economic and supply chain transformations towards sustainability. Numerous companies have effectively adopted green innovation practices in managing their supply chains. For instance, Unilever's Sustainable Living Plan sets out to reduce the environmental impact of its products by 50% by 2030, showcasing a holistic approach to sustainable supply chain management that is both effective and replicable. Similarly, IKEA's goal to become climate-positive by 2030 underscores the integration of circular economy principles and environmentally friendly procurement practices, providing a clear roadmap for other companies to follow.
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Therefore, this track will delve into green innovations, emphasizing how technologies and processes can help create sustainable and environmentally friendly supply chains. This track aims to bring together researchers, practitioners, and policymakers to discuss and explore cutting-edge innovations and strategies for enhancing the sustainability of transport and logistics systems. We encourage submissions on, but not limited to, the following topics:
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Green supply chain management: Strategies and practices for reducing the environmental impact of supply chains.
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Eco-friendly logistics solutions: Green warehousing, packaging, and distribution practices.
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Smart and connected logistics: The role of the Internet of Things (IoT), artificial intelligence (AI), and big data in optimizing logistics for sustainability.
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Policy and regulation: Impact of governmental policies and regulations on promoting green logistics.
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Urban logistics and last-mile delivery: Sustainable approaches to urban freight and last-mile delivery challenges.
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Renewable Energy in Logistics: Integration of solar, wind, and other renewable energy sources in transport and logistics operations.
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Circular Economy and Reverse Logistics: Implementing circular economy principles in logistics and supply chains.
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Collaborative logistics networks: Partnerships and collaborations for shared sustainable logistics solutions.
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Case studies and best practices: Real-world examples of successful green logistics implementations.