Logistics sector must deliver green economy

In 2018, global energy demand rose by nearly 3 per cent, which is the fastest growth rate since 2010. Additionally, sea levels have risen by three inches from 1990 to 2017. Climate change is increasingly becoming a reality. Given this outlook, logistics providers in the region and globally are renewing their focus on environmental, social and governance principles. It is no longer a luxury confined to large firms, but rather, a licence to operate in the logistics industry. In fact, according to Cerasis, approximately 64.2 per cent of supply chain entities report implementing sustainable solutions within the last two years.

ESG principles are important for logistics firms as their operations tend to span across several markets and can therefore have a wider impact. Embedding these principles in business operations inevitably leads to sustainable markets and better outcomes for societies. Dubai and the other emirates are leading the way and have introduced several environmentally-friendly strategies and initiatives as they transform towards a green economy. For example, Dubai has begun to green its fleet of government vehicles by purchasing over 4,000 electric and hybrid cars to replace gas and diesel vehicles. In 2016, the Dubai Water and Electricity Authority (DEWA) established the $27 billion Dubai Green Fund to stimulate investment in clean energy and other green projects by providing seed financing, a de-risking facility, and facilitating crowdfunding.

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Sustainability is a fast-growing area of interest for private businesses in Dubai as well. In July, the Dubai Financial Market (DFM) launched the Sustainability Strategic Plan 2025 — a blueprint to promote ESG issues among its listed companies, with the intention of becoming the region’s leading sustainable financial market.

This follows reports and trends that point to the fact that companies with strong ESG values perform better financially, avoid bankruptcy risks and generate “alpha”.

Given this backdrop, I firmly believe that logistics operators in the Middle East need to re-direct their focus on conducting business in a responsible manner. As a significant sector of the regional economy, it is up to our industry to examine the areas in which we can have an impact and therefore lead the way in protecting the environment, reducing pollution, and serving the community all the while ensuring good corporate governance.

The logistics industry is constantly challenged to control and reduce carbon emissions while transporting products, be it by road, sea or air. Regulations also enable and ensure that businesses consider the impact of their operations on the environment. Some of the initiatives companies could implement to reduce their carbon footprint will be to reduce their dependence on fossil fuel generated electricity through waste water treatment, using EURO IV technology, using biodiesel, integrating hybrid vehicles into the fleet, using green buildings and leveraging solar energy.

Another aspect that needs attention in the logistics industry is the safety of drivers and sailors. Preserving the health and safety of logistics staff is of paramount importance when establishing an ESG framework, as it leads to good corporate governance. There are various devices that can auto-detect fatigue and distraction thereby preventing accidents on the road for truck drivers. Logistics companies have an obligation to recognise and promote the need for environmental stability and acknowledge the social impact of our business in the communities in which we operate. Additionally, it is important to be transparent with stakeholders in order to earn their trust and operate in a responsible manner.

■ Eugene Mayne is founder and CEO of Tristar Group