Sustainability Life Cycle Analysis of a Logistics Company : A case study of Itella Oy
Vironen, Danielle (2014)
Metropolia Ammattikorkeakoulu
2014
All rights reserved
Julkaisun pysyvä osoite on
https://urn.fi/URN:NBN:fi:amk-2014052710403
https://urn.fi/URN:NBN:fi:amk-2014052710403
Tiivistelmä
It is now globally recognized that there is a critical need for human society to be ecologically sustainable. The decline in natural resources, pollution, and climate change are only a few factors of concern regarding the future. Sustainability has been defined as one in which “environmental, economic, and social policies and innovations enable society to use resources efficiently--enhancing human well-being in an inclusive manner, while maintaining the natural systems that sustain us” (European Environment Agency, 2013).
Logistics is defined as the management, transportation, storage and handling of products and goods from source point through production to the final point of disposal. This service is essential for society and economic growth, so much so that there is expectation of excellent logistics services, especially in developed countries. Logistics also provides a source of employment and revenue.
Despite its many benefits, logistics also contributes to the degradation of the natural systems around us. For example, the transportation sector is responsible for almost a third of carbon dioxide emissions globally, which has a critical impact on climate change. Therefore, it is important that logistics companies try to curb these environmental impacts. Many to date, such as DHL, UPS and FedEx, have done so through such means as the use of alternative fuels, increasing energy efficiency and contributing to “climate projects”. It is beneficial to review the progress made in the logistics sector in order to know where improvements regarding sustainability can be achieved.
As a case study, Itella Oy was assessed with a sustainable life cycle analysis developed by The Natural Step. Itella is state-owned and Finland’s largest logistics company, as well as the nation’s postal courier. The analysis showed that there has been much progress regarding sustainable development within the organization, although some aspects, such as the use of plastics within the processing stage remain unsustainable.
Logistics is defined as the management, transportation, storage and handling of products and goods from source point through production to the final point of disposal. This service is essential for society and economic growth, so much so that there is expectation of excellent logistics services, especially in developed countries. Logistics also provides a source of employment and revenue.
Despite its many benefits, logistics also contributes to the degradation of the natural systems around us. For example, the transportation sector is responsible for almost a third of carbon dioxide emissions globally, which has a critical impact on climate change. Therefore, it is important that logistics companies try to curb these environmental impacts. Many to date, such as DHL, UPS and FedEx, have done so through such means as the use of alternative fuels, increasing energy efficiency and contributing to “climate projects”. It is beneficial to review the progress made in the logistics sector in order to know where improvements regarding sustainability can be achieved.
As a case study, Itella Oy was assessed with a sustainable life cycle analysis developed by The Natural Step. Itella is state-owned and Finland’s largest logistics company, as well as the nation’s postal courier. The analysis showed that there has been much progress regarding sustainable development within the organization, although some aspects, such as the use of plastics within the processing stage remain unsustainable.