Medical transport firms are adjusting business practises due to climate change

Many drugs are delivered not by the makers but by independent operators. They are responsible for cold chains and reaching supply chain end-points. To be sustainable, stakeholders and consumers are urging the industry to adopt sustainable practices. This pressure is evident in the calls for decreased environmental impact at every stage of the drug production process, from sourcing raw materials and manufacturing to waste disposal. Investors are placing greater importance on companies with substantial environmental, social, and governance (ESG) practices, while consumers prefer medications dedicated to sustainability.

• Kuehne+Nagel is committed to using big data and digital tools to optimise transport routes and modes for sustainability. By the end of 2030, the company aims to reduce CO2 emissions by 33% of its footprint. Its Johannesburg airside facility offers a comprehensive cold chain solution, ensuring proper temperature control for various pharmaceutical products. 

• CEVA Logistics' CO2 footprint in 2023 was 6.0 Mt CO2e, a reduction of 200,000 tons compared to 2022. This progress aligns with their goal of reaching net-zero emissions by 2050. To achieve this, CEVA's Pharma and Bio-Pharma sustainability approach prioritises using low-carbon electricity and investing in electric and low-emission trucks and vans. 

• To ensure the safe and timely flow of temperature-sensitive pharmaceuticals and medical supplies, DHL leverages supply chain risk analytics alongside their cold-chain tracking app, DHL LifeTrack. DHL also implements advanced temperature management solutions that can minimise refrigeration needs in some cases, contributing to their overall goal of achieving net-zero emissions by 2050 through the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi).