Track: Sustainable in SCM / Green Supply Chain

Abstract

Multiple industries across the globe have a major role to play in decarbonizing their operations to achieve
the Net Zero goal by 2050. One of the major contributors to environmental degradation is the logistics
service industry. This research mainly focuses on one of the large players within this industry,
namely the shippers, by investigating their involvement and activities that impact the environment. There is a vast literature on green logistics as well as guidance from the regulatory bodies to adopt greener logistics practices but high investments and challenges in identifying and assessing the cost and benefits emerged as major barriers. The research proposes a conceptual framework based on the literature review and researchers’ understanding of the industry. The proposed Green Logistics framework adapts the DMAIC approach of Lean Six-Sigma in its broad spectrum. The framework is further verified through a Delphi approach, where experts from academia and industry were engaged to critically review and provide feedback for its further improvement. The framework has been modified/updated in light of the Delphi study’s results. The framework is expected to assist shipping companies to reduce their emissions and achieve the decarbonization goal.

Keywords
Logistics, Shippers, Net Zero Carbon, DMAIC, and Supply Chain.