| Written by Constance Stickler
"Sustainability in cold chains is no longer a choice but a necessity, driven by environmental concerns and customer expectations for greener logistics solutions."
Joel Reyes, Head of Professional Services Americas
Freezing food is one of the great innovations of the modern industrial age. On the one hand, it has significantly expanded the storage economy that has been practised by humans for thousands of years. On the other hand, food culture was profoundly transformed. For example, fruits that were once seasonal, such as strawberries, are now available frozen in the supermarket all year round, waiting to be made into a delicious smoothie with other colourful berries.
The first supermarket to offer frozen foods was in Springfield, Massachusetts. There, on March 6, 1930, astonished customers were offered rock-hard frozen spinach and icy fish. Our own consultants are available to answer questions about the new product category.
But this revolution also has its price: the way the cold chain is operated conventionally it produces far too many greenhouse gases. These arise from cooling, which uses a lot of energy, and from transport. It's a vicious circle - we have to refrigerate our food, but the way we do it weakens the ecosystem on which we depend.
Today's levels of environmental pollution no longer tolerate our inflationary use of the term sustainability. New technologies and methods for transporting and storing temperature-sensitive products must be developed and used.
Sustainable Cold Chain: The Environmental Iceberg
The traditional cold chain has a lot of implications that go unnoticed by many. We usually only see the crisp, colourful fruit selection in the fruit department without thinking about where and how exactly the products got to us.
These products often come from very far away and have an energy-intensive journey. Both storage and transport at a constant temperature consume enormous amounts of energy. Huge amounts of greenhouse gases are produced when energy is generated for storage, and the diesel engines of the transport equipment blow them directly into the air.
In this way, we are fuelling climate change and endangering the survival of many living creatures on this planet. By the way, our own too.
The Main Environmental Impacts of the Cold Chain
Greenhouse Gases
The refrigerants used in storage and transportation, such as hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) and chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs), are often the very pervasive greenhouse gases that drive global warming. If these escape through leaks or are disposed of improperly, this increases the greenhouse effect and endangers the ozone layer. And that is when we are at least well on the way to closing the ozone hole.
Most of the vehicles used for transport, such as trucks and container ships, as well as the vehicles used for transhipment, still run on diesel.
Air Pollution
Most equipment and means of transportation, such as trucks, ships and planes, still run on fossil fuels. When they are burned, fine dust, as well as nitrogen oxide and sulfur dioxide, are produced. Not only is the air polluted, but these substances also have serious effects on human health.
Power Consumption
As already mentioned, the energy consumption of cold chains is enormous. And this has harmful effects when it comes from non-renewable sources such as coal or natural gas (learn more about reefer container power supply).
Waste Generation
Temperature-sensitive products often require special packaging. Their excessive use and unsustainable packaging generate waste and pollute the environment. They include plastics, foams and other disposable materials.
Deforestation and Land Use Change
Quite a few of the insulating materials come from unsustainably managed forests.
Water Pollution
The danger here comes primarily from the chemicals required for cooling. If these are not disposed of properly, they endanger life in seas, lakes and rivers.
Raw Material Depletion
Energy consumption needs to be mentioned again, this time in connection with the production of refrigerators, vehicles and other devices - and from the perspective of resource scarcity.
Real change is indicated. Industry players are required to look for sustainable alternatives that balance the equation between freshness and environmental responsibility.
Sustainable Cold Chain: Technologies Shape the Future
Sustainable cold chains are not just a romantic vision but a tangible reality. This reality is characterised by new technologies, such as the emergence of cooling using renewable energy sources. This means the energy for delivering the strawberries mentioned above could soon come directly from the sun, wind and water. Not only does this reduce the carbon footprint, but it also creates decentralised solutions that are particularly beneficial in remote areas with limited access to traditional energy sources.
Electric and hybrid vehicles are increasingly replacing their fossil fuel-dependent counterparts. This change is not only sustainable but also economically sensible. Once only used by absolute pioneers, they are becoming more and more mainstream.
As with many other commercial ventures, efficiency was almost the only factor behind the success of a cold chain. After all, what use is the best transport network if the goods do not reach the consumer on time and in perfect condition? The challenge is to create harmony between efficiency and sustainability.
This is precisely where the concept of smart logistics comes in: technology and data analysis are linked in such a way that every link in the cold chain is optimised, from real-time monitoring of temperature and humidity to predictive analyses that predict potential disruptions. Efficiency increases, and waste and resource consumption are minimised.
For some goods, the accuracy of the cooling is non-negotiable. In this case, knowing about all parameters around the clock and in real-time is even more critical. If alerted in time, you can intervene and prevent what is often costly freight from turning into a pile of worthless garbage (learn more about automated reefer monitoring).
Cultivating Change: The Role of Stakeholders in Sustainable Cold Chains
Stakeholders play a pivotal role in the quest for a sustainable cold chain. Each participant holds a piece of the puzzle, from farmers and producers to retailers and consumers. The power to effect change lies in making conscious choices that prioritise sustainability without compromising the quality and availability of our favourite products.
Farmers, who are often at the beginning of the cold chain, are increasingly relying on environmentally friendly practices such as regenerative agriculture. This focuses on soil health and biodiversity, produces healthier plants and can even sequester carbon. Farmers can become real pioneers of change by aligning their actions with sustainability and thus becoming an essential part of a more responsible and resilient cold chain.
Retailers, further along the spectrum, can have a significant influence on consumer choices: sustainable packaging, reduced food waste, and eco-friendly refrigeration practices. These are just a few ways you can make a sustainable impact. The impact of these measures extends beyond supermarket shelves and creates a consumer culture driven by sustainability.
From Field to Fork: Consumer Consciousness in the Sustainable Cold Chain
As consumers, we hold a unique power—the power of choice. Every purchase is a vote for the world we want to live in. The sustainable cold chain is not just a responsibility for businesses; it's a shared journey where consumers play a crucial role.
Let's look at a consumer's story; we'll call her Emily. We see her navigate the aisles of her local grocery store. When she's faced with a choice between conventionally grown produce and organic, sustainably sourced alternatives, Emily decides to go for organic. The label communicates her values, influencing farmers, retailers, and logistics providers.
Increasing consumer awareness of environmental impacts is a key factor in driving more sustainable options. Emily's choices have a direct impact on the planet.
Overcoming Hurdles in the Pursuit of Cold Chain Sustainability
While the vision of a sustainable cold chain is compelling, it's not without its challenges. Transitioning from traditional to sustainable practices requires substantial investments in technology, infrastructure, and education. Many businesses, especially smaller ones, may find it daunting to navigate this transformation.
But solutions are also being created for this: for example, small players can rely on Software as a Service (SaaS) and avoid costly on-site installations. Mobile devices use newly available technologies and allow extremely flexible use regardless of the location. They also enable scalability in both directions, which not only impresses small companies.
Government support and industry collaboration are essential catalysts for overcoming these hurdles. Incentives, subsidies, and regulations encouraging sustainable practices can level the playing field, making it economically viable for businesses to adopt greener technologies.
Collaboration between stakeholders—farmers, producers, retailers, and logistics providers—is equally crucial. A united front is the key to success in a world where the cold chain is a complex web of interconnected players.
The Road Ahead: A Chilled Utopia or a Melting Crisis?
As we navigate the twists and turns of the path toward a sustainable cold chain, the destination is clear—an equilibrium where freshness coexists with environmental responsibility. The road ahead is paved with challenges but also with opportunities for innovation, collaboration, and conscious choices.
Imagine a future where the chilled air in your grocery store doesn't carry the weight of environmental guilt, where the journey of your favourite strawberries from field to fork leaves a minimal carbon footprint. This utopia isn't just a dream; it's a possibility within our grasp.
Keeping the cold chain sustainable isn't just a logistical triumph; it's also proof that we can adapt, innovate, and care for the planet that sustains us as well. We should choose a rhythm in sync with the heartbeat of a healthier, more sustainable tomorrow when we dance commerce and climate.
Challenges of Retrofitting Older Cold Chain Infrastructure with Sustainable Technologies
Cold chain facilities still operate with outdated equipment and infrastructure, making the transition to sustainable technologies a complex undertaking.
The old systems were built without focusing on energy efficiency, meaning that retrofitting them often requires significant improvements to their electrical and mechanical components. Due to the way the infrastructure is designed, incorporating renewable energy sources or switching to more environmentally friendly cooling systems, such as CO2-based units, can be difficult.
Space constraints in older facilities also pose a challenge. Limited space for additional equipment or necessary structural changes can hinder the installation of energy-efficient cooling technologies and make them significantly more expensive. Building extensions or internal reconfigurations may be required, both of which entail some disruption to ongoing operations.
Switching to more environmentally friendly alternatives in cooling media, such as CO2 or ammonia-based systems, often requires staff training and refreshed safety protocols. This is the only way to effectively comply with new environmental regulations.
Due to these complexities, a careful balance must be struck between operational continuity and the achievement of environmental goals. It is crucial to determine the optimal time at which the changes, construction measures and investments should be made.
FAQs
What are the main environmental impacts of traditional cold chains?
Traditional cold chains significantly contribute to environmental issues. They emit greenhouse gases like hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) and chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs), which are detrimental to the ozone layer and exacerbate global warming. Additionally, most transportation in these chains relies on diesel, leading to air pollution and high energy consumption, often from non-renewable sources. The packaging for temperature-sensitive products also results in excessive waste, and certain insulating materials contribute to deforestation and land use change.
How are sustainable cold chains different from traditional ones?
Sustainable cold chains incorporate new technologies that reduce their environmental impact. This includes using renewable energy sources for cooling, such as solar, wind, and water power, which significantly lower the carbon footprint. Electric and hybrid vehicles are replacing diesel-powered transport, contributing to a reduction in air pollution. Sustainable cold chains also focus on efficiency through smart logistics, using technology and data analysis to optimize the entire chain, reducing waste and resource consumption.
What role do consumers play in promoting sustainable cold chains?
Consumers have a critical role in driving the shift towards sustainable cold chains. Every purchase choice can influence the market, encouraging businesses to adopt eco-friendly practices. For instance, opting for organically grown, sustainably sourced products can push farmers, retailers, and logistics providers to prioritize sustainability. Increased consumer awareness and demand for environmentally responsible products are vital in fostering a more sustainable cold chain system.
Takeaway
In summary, the article "A Sustainable Cold Chain for a Cooler Tomorrow" underscores the urgent need for a paradigm shift in how we manage our cold chains. Traditional methods, while effective in preserving food, come with a substantial environmental cost, contributing significantly to greenhouse gas emissions and other ecological concerns. The call to action is clear: we must embrace innovative technologies and sustainable practices. From renewable energy-powered cooling systems to electric and hybrid vehicles and smarter logistics, the solutions are within reach. Equally important is the role of every stakeholder, including consumers, whose choices can drive significant change towards sustainability. By reimagining and restructuring our cold chains, we can protect our planet without compromising on the quality and availability of food, ultimately achieving a harmonious balance between efficiency and environmental responsibility. This is not just a vision for the future; it's an actionable path we can start on today for a healthier, more sustainable world.
Delve deeper into one of our core topics: Refrigerated containers
Note: This article was updated on the 22nd of October 2024
Author
Conny Stickler, Marketing Manager Logistics
Constance Stickler holds a master's degree in political science, German language and history. She spent most of her professional career as a project and marketing manager in different industries. Her passion is usability, and she's captivated by the potential of today's digital tools. They seem to unlock endless possibilities, each one more intriguing than the last. Constance writes about automation, sustainability and safety in maritime logistics.
