Sustainability in warehousing is a big topic and can mean a lot of different things to different warehousing providers. In general terms, sustainability in warehousing means having a warehouse that is extremely efficient in its energy usage, that makes an effort to maintain strategies lowering its impact on the environment, and that practices the three Rs, reduce, reuse, and recycle.
Energy Efficiency
Energy efficiency may mean an efficient layout of the warehouse so that movement of products is minimized. It could also mean automation that speeds up the location and movement of products.
Some warehouses are careful with their use of electricity and water and/or supplement their energy with low-impact things like solar energy. Also, the location of the warehouse with easy access to transportation can lower energy usage.
Strategies
Strategies that lower impact on the environment could include packing materials that are greener. There may be incentives for employees to carpool or bike to work or use public transportation. There could be hardware that decreases water usage and minimizing how lights are used. The specific strategies will vary depending on the warehouse, but the concept of sustainability is a mindset of the managers.
Reduce, Reuse, and Recycle
Everyone knows what the three Rs are. There should be established practices for recycling cans and bottles. Perhaps the warehouse tries to use as little paper as possible or even goes paperless. Reducing the time that lights are burning or even using more efficient lighting can fall under this category. In addition, the regulation of ambient temperature where possible can reduce energy use.
Every warehouse will approach the sustainability concept differently, but in today’s world being kind to the environment is valuable to everyone. Ask your warehouse what they do to increase sustainability.
If you need any help with shipping, logistics, cross-docking, and/or warehousing of your products in southern British Columbia, give us a call in Vancouver at (604) 439-8938.
For over 30 years, 18 Wheels Logistics has strived to be the most customer-centric trucking, warehousing, and logistics company around. Based in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada, 18 Wheels relies on experience and integrity to make customers happy and remain on the cutting edge of shipping and logistics management.
If you have any questions about this article or you would like to talk to us about your shipping needs, please call us at (604) 439-8938.