Anna Schuldt,
Business Analyst by Hermes International
Green supply chain management as a corporate goal
Logistics managers are increasingly declaring ecologically responsible action to be a strategic corporate goal. In view of the growing sustainability market and the increasing CO2 taxation, a reduced pollutant balance is also economically decisive. With the German Supply Chain Act coming into effect in 2023, the focus is shifting to the supply chain. This is illustrated by the 15th Hermes Barometer on Green Supply Chain Management according to which 22 percent of the 200 companies surveyed have already taken measures to improve their ecological footprint. 69 percent of active companies thereby rely on carbon offsetting – 14 percent more than in spring 2020. But which offsetting measures deliver the desired added value? What should those responsible look out for in order to achieve their own environmental goals? The answer is provided by Anna Schuldt, business analyst and sustainability expert at Hermes International, a division of Hermes Germany.
How can companies offset their carbon emissions in the supply chain?
First of all, it should be noted that carbon offset is ideally the last step in decarbonizing the supply chain. The three-phase model that Hermes International has developed for more sustainability in the supply chain first provides for the phases “transparency” and “control”. The main goal is to actually achieve a reduction or avoidance of emissions. Where we are currently unable to avoid or reduce, offsetting offers the opportunity to increase efforts while we continue to drive towards our main goal. Nevertheless, for smaller companies or those inexperienced with sustainability strategies, starting with offsetting is certainly a step in the right direction. It often pays to start with a competent partner and focus initially on a specific part of the supply chain – for example, the long route where most emissions are generated.