Greenhouse gas emissions in EU and Logistics

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Greenhouse gas emissions in EU and Logistics

22/01/2023 Gaziantep University, Türkiye 

   Since the Industrial Revolution, human activities have released large amounts of carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases (Methane, Nitrous oxide and etc.) into the atmosphere, which has changed the earth’s climate. The largest source of greenhouse gas emissions from human activities in the EU is from burning fossil fuels for electricity and transportation. Total greenhouse gas emissions in the EU amounted to 3,708 million tonnes CO2 equivalent in 2020. According to the Figure 1, the transportation sector (23.2%) generates one of the largest shares of greenhouse gas emissions in the EU.

 

Figure 1. Distribution of CO2 emissions in the EU in 2020 (Source: European Environment Agency)

   Since transportation is a sub-branch of logistics, it is necessary to start with logistics for greenhouse gas improvements caused by transportation. In accordance with this purpose, the European Commission adopted a set of proposals and strategies (The European Green Deal) to make the EU's climate, energy, transport and taxation policies fit for reducing net greenhouse gas emissions by at least 55% by 2030, compared to 1990 levels. The EU’s goal of being the first climate-neutral continent by 2050 requires ambitious changes in transport. A clear path is needed to achieve a 90% reduction in transport-related greenhouse gas emissions by 2050. According to the literature, there are several ways to ensure reduction in carbon emissions for logistics sector. Some of them are presented below:

  • Selecting and working with green suppliers,
  • Using eco-friendly transportation options,
  • Having the right data at fingertips,
  • Utilization truck/storage spaces more efficiently,
  • Reuse, repair, and recycle in logistics processes,
  • Using cleaner and greener energy sources,
  • Optimize the transport flow,
  • Qualified, trained and educated labor force in this field.

   For this reason, Slog4.0 project partners have always been highly aware of and committed to caring for the environment, social and economic impacts of transportation and logistics. Let's make logistics sustainable together.

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