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Reducing Environmental Impact in Logistics: Are Companies Doing Enough?

Read time: 5 Minutes

In the dynamic realm of modern business, the spotlight on reducing environmental impact has never been more intense. In this article, Jason Lafata, Director of Value Realization and Senior Account Manager at ORTEC, shares insights into the innovative strategies adopted by industry leaders in the quest for sustainable and cost-efficient logistics.

By Jason Lafata, Director of Value Realization and Senior Account Manager at ORTEC.

Date26 Jan 2024
Reducing Environmental Impact in Logistics: Are Companies Doing Enough? | ORTEC

Unveiling Environmental Synergy

A project at a major player in manufacturing exemplifies ORTEC’s commitment to elevating automation and optimizing logistics processes. By refining automatic route plans through advanced routing software, the objective was clear: align with business requirements, fine-tune algorithms, and curtail costs in last-mile distribution. The outcome surpassed expectations, achieving a remarkable annual reduction of approximately 56,000 kilograms of CO2 emissions and a substantial 70,000-kilometer cutback per year for a single distribution center.

What adds to the significance is that these improvements were implemented across over 300 distribution centers, potentially leading to an annual reduction of almost 17 kilotons of CO2 emissions.

Graph KM costs vs CO2 emissions | ORTEC

Jason Lafata, Director of Value Realization and Senior Account Manager at ORTEC.

"In logistics, companies often approach us with a focus on reducing costs or improving customer service. Interestingly, as we work through these objectives, we discover that there's an indirect yet significant reduction in environmental impact."

Redefining Efficiency in Trucking

In another compelling success story, a major manufacturing company aimed to trim overall costs by enhancing the planning process and load utilization of their trucks. Utilizing ORTEC's advanced load optimizer, they conducted truck load simulations for one of their 800+ shipping lanes over a two-month period. The optimization process achieved remarkable results, allowing the same product volume to be loaded into 11 fewer trucks while adhering to loading constraints, axle restrictions, and weight limitations. Beyond the 10% reduction in the number of trucks shipped, this equated to an annual savings of around 13,000 kilograms of CO2 emissions for that specific shipping lane, potentially reaching over 10 kilotons for all lanes.

Pallet and Load Building | ORTEC

Jason Lafata, Director of Value Realization and Senior Account Manager at ORTEC.

"It's encouraging to see companies taking steps in the right direction. However, there's untapped potential in reevaluating the efficiency of pallets, loading, and routing processes. Embracing such innovations not only contributes to environmental responsibility but also positively impacts the bottom line."

The Intersection of Savings and Sustainability

These examples underscore the intersection of cost reduction and environmental impact, a realm where ORTEC thrives. While companies are increasingly investing in sustainable measures such as innovative packaging and electric vehicles, the often-overlooked efficiency of pallets, loading, and routing processes holds immense potential.

In this journey towards a greener and more efficient future, ORTEC emerges as a guiding force, steering companies towards operational excellence intertwined with environmental stewardship. As we traverse this transformative path, the message is clear – innovative solutions are essential for a sustainable and efficient tomorrow.

Stay tuned for more insights and deep dives into the evolving landscape of sustainability and business innovation. Join us on the path towards a greener and more efficient future.

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About Jason Lafata

As the Director of Value Realization and Senior Account Manager at ORTEC, Jason Lafata brings over 19 years of dedicated expertise in leveraging mathematics to unlock value in the logistics domain. With a keen focus on helping companies achieve operational excellence, Jason's strategic approach revolves around reducing costs, improving customer service, employee satisfaction, and enhancing overall efficiency. His role involves spearheading projects that not only contribute to the financial success of organizations but also generate positive environmental impact through innovative solutions. Jason's commitment to bridging the gap between cost efficiency and sustainability positions him as a key influencer in the intersection of logistics, technology, and environmental responsibility.

Jason Lafata | ORTEC

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Explore innovative strategies in logistics, focusing on sustainability and cost efficiency. Jason Lafata, Director of Value Realization at ORTEC, will get in touch to share more success stories and opportunities for logistics leaders and sustainability officers in manufacturing and beyond.