30-06-2012, 06:16 PM
E-Logistics and the Natural Environment
[attachment=26394]
Introduction
Billions will be spent on Internet Based Logistics Systems.
If growth is to be maintained (as we now know) efficient logistics systems have to be in place.
Investments in e-logistics will also be great, question is: What are the environmental implications?
Forward E-Logistics and the Natural Environment
Procurement
Email, EDI and XML linkages aiding procurement
Savings: Ideally reduce all paper driven transactions (.25% drop in net greenhouse gas production (Romm, 2000).
Costs: (general issue with all technology)
energy costs because of technology (Mills 2000, 2001).
Electronic Hardware - a growing waste stream, millions of computers, CRTs, etc. into landfills.
Reverse E-Logistics and the Natural Environment
Challenges of E-logistics
E-commerce has higher return rates.
Culture of focus on sales not returns service
Volumes of returns are unknown
Lack of retailing experience
Variety of sources of returns – manufacturers deliver directly
Some responses
Return Stores subcontracted
Third-party Reverse Logistics providers (but need to rethink business in internet situation, e.g. smaller orders, pickups).
[attachment=26394]
Introduction
Billions will be spent on Internet Based Logistics Systems.
If growth is to be maintained (as we now know) efficient logistics systems have to be in place.
Investments in e-logistics will also be great, question is: What are the environmental implications?
Forward E-Logistics and the Natural Environment
Procurement
Email, EDI and XML linkages aiding procurement
Savings: Ideally reduce all paper driven transactions (.25% drop in net greenhouse gas production (Romm, 2000).
Costs: (general issue with all technology)
energy costs because of technology (Mills 2000, 2001).
Electronic Hardware - a growing waste stream, millions of computers, CRTs, etc. into landfills.
Reverse E-Logistics and the Natural Environment
Challenges of E-logistics
E-commerce has higher return rates.
Culture of focus on sales not returns service
Volumes of returns are unknown
Lack of retailing experience
Variety of sources of returns – manufacturers deliver directly
Some responses
Return Stores subcontracted
Third-party Reverse Logistics providers (but need to rethink business in internet situation, e.g. smaller orders, pickups).