Sustainability and Green Logistics – What It Is and Why It Matters

sustainable shipping

Sustainability in logistics is no longer optional. With mounting regulatory pressure and increasingly eco-conscious consumers, Multi-Carrier Shipping providers must develop greener delivery options to stay competitive and compliant.

Whether you’re looking to reduce your carbon footprint, meet new regulations or respond to customer demand, implementing green logistics strategies can transform environmental challenges into business advantages.

What is Green Logistics?

Green logistics refers to sustainable practices implemented throughout the supply chain to minimise environmental impact while maintaining operational efficiency. It encompasses carbon emissions reduction, sustainable packaging and optimised route planning.

Research from DNV shows that 24% of organisations now consider lowering their carbon footprint as their top decarbonisation priority, while 16% prioritise measuring and verifying their carbon footprint.

For retailers and delivery providers, green logistics has become a strategic necessity rather than just an ethical choice, driven by external pressures and recognition of long-term benefits.

sustainable shopping
sustainable delivery

The Regulatory Perspective Driving Change

The regulatory environment surrounding logistics sustainability is becoming increasingly stringent. In the UK, the government’s commitment to net-zero emissions by 2050 has led to cascading requirements for businesses across all sectors.

The EU’s Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism and Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive are creating new compliance requirements for cross-border trade. These regulations:

  • Mandate detailed emissions reporting
  • May impose carbon taxes on imports
  • Create potential barriers for non-compliant businesses

For retailers, these evolving regulations create both challenges and opportunities. While compliance requires investment, early adopters gain competitive advantages and avoid potential penalties.

Consumer Expectations and Brand Impact

Today’s consumers are increasingly making purchasing decisions based on sustainability credentials. According to SCS Global Services, verified carbon footprint data significantly boosts consumer awareness, driving demand for eco-friendly products.

Research from Arbor indicates that 73% of millennial consumers consider sustainability when making purchasing decisions, with delivery methods being a key consideration. Brands that offer green delivery options are seeing:

  • Higher conversion rates
  • Improved customer loyalty
  • Enhanced brand reputation
  • Increased repeat purchases

Retailers who neglect green logistics risk not only regulatory non-compliance but also significant brand damage or limitations in an increasingly environmentally conscious marketplace.

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carbon scoring

Carbon Scoring and Emissions Tracking

Carbon scoring and emissions tracking provide detailed measurements of greenhouse gas emissions across different carriers and service levels, enabling data-driven decisions that balance environmental impact with operational needs. The technology works by collecting data on fuel consumption, vehicle types and distances travelled to calculate accurate emissions figures for each delivery.

For retailers, the benefits include:

  • Ability to offer customers accurate emissions data at checkout
  • Identification of environmentally efficient delivery options
  • Compliance with emerging carbon reporting regulations
  • Data to support sustainability claims

Implementing Green Logistics in Your Supply Chain

Implementing green logistics requires a strategic approach that balances sustainability goals with operational realities. Practical steps include:

  1. Selecting carriers with strong sustainability credentials
  2. Optimising delivery routes and consolidating shipments
  3. Implementing sustainable packaging solutions
  4. Offering carbon-neutral delivery options to customers

While there may be initial costs, the long-term savings are substantial through improved efficiency, regulatory compliance and enhanced brand reputation.

sustainable delivery
sustainable delivery

Key Takeaways: Sustainability and Green Logistics

  • Sustainable shipping reduces emissions, cuts costs and boosts brand loyalty

  • Carbon scoring across carriers enables data-driven, environmentally conscious decisions

  • Regulatory compliance is becoming mandatory, with early adopters gaining a competitive edge

  • 73% of consumers consider sustainability when making purchasing decisions

How GFS Supports Sustainable Delivery

At GFS, we understand the growing importance of sustainability in the delivery ecosystem. Our approach combines technology, carrier partnerships and expertise to help retailers implement effective green logistics strategies without compromising on service quality or cost efficiency.

Our Managed Multi-Carrier Services include partners with strong sustainability credentials, allowing retailers to access greener delivery options through a single integration. GFS technology solutions provide services across different carriers, empowering you to make informed decisions that align with both business goals and environmental values.

For retailers looking to enhance their sustainability credentials, our Sustainable Shipping solutions offer:

  • Access to carriers with electric and alternative fuel vehicles

  • Optimisation tools that reduce unnecessary mileage

  • Expertise in balancing sustainability with other delivery priorities

  • Integration across multiple delivery options as a one-stop-shop service

sustainable shipping

Ready to make your delivery operations more sustainable? Contact GFS today to discover how our managed multi-carrier services and technology can help you build a greener, more efficient delivery strategy that satisfies regulatory requirements, business objectives and customer expectations.