Sustainability In The Cold Chain Process

The cold chain process is another word for the temperature-controlled supply chain in which goods are transferred. These supply chains typically operate using complex networks that require multiple parts to ensure the process remains unbroken during the trip.

For the process to be effective, it requires a coordinated effort along multiple channels. So whether you are shipping delicious food, or life-saving medicine, expanding the sustainability of our industry is not only our goal but something we all need to do in order to reverse the climate issues our communities are facing. 

Waste

The Food and Agriculture Organization estimates roughly one-third of all food produced yearly is either lost or wasted. Additionally, about half is caused by a lack of access to basic cold-chain logistics. Refrigeration alone will not solve this issue as temperature-sensitive produce can still perish when stored properly without consumer access, which most developing countries still struggle with.

Sustainability

With proper systems in place the cold chain process allows farmers in these countries to transition from traditional crops like corn and wheat, to producing fruits and vegetables rich in vitamins. With high value crops being grown, rural areas will see an increase in available jobs as well as economic growth. A healthy and sustainable cold chain helps connect farmers, fishers, and growers with international markets without impacting the environment.

Demand

As demand for food steadily increases, the cold chain process is being used to reduce carbon emissions related to food loss. Cold storage facilities using low-GWP and energy-efficient cooling systems have been proven to operate at a higher efficiency even when located in warmer climates or rural areas. These systems, along with zero-energy storage solutions such as cooling, and improvements in building design have lessened our industry’s overall carbon footprint. 

No single technology will be the solution to this problem, however, shifting our focus to more renewable energies is an important step. 

There are numerous ways you can take action as well as help solve the sustainability issues within the cold chain process.

Change

Understanding the lifecycle of product is also key. In order to minimize your carbon footprint you must be able to identify areas where improvement is achievable. Remember, sustainability targets exist to eventually help your bottom line above all. 

Natural Energy Resources

Using natural shading, better design, and natural ventilation alongside sustainable practices increase your business’s efforts as well. 

Improvements

Finally, by improving the efficiency of your existing cooling appliances you’ll be a step closer to optimizing your cold chain process.

The Benefits of a Warehousing Service​

There are countless advantages to using a warehouse service to accompany your cold storage logistics. Not only are warehouse services a good way to reduce the wait for deliveries, but it’s also a good way to find affordable fulfillment options. This can take a lot of the groundwork off of the operations team.

It can help with this by outsourcing the types of warehousing you need. If you need a better way to manage your cold storage logistics, finding a cold storage facility that handles the product packaging and processing for you is a good way to start.

Utilizing warehouse services makes it much simpler to control stock in storage facilities and optimize logistics. This facilitates a higher level of productivity and efficiency, as well as allowing quicker turnover of goods.

It can also help with improving customer satisfaction and product accessibility. Businesses can also expect additional benefits when using U.S. cold storage options for their cold supply chain by considering;

• Cold room storage
• Energy efficient temperature range
• Better customer service
• Better inventory management processes
• Capability to keep up with in-demand products and product changes
• Assurance of regularly supplied and managed frozen foods
• Reduction in delayed orders
• Added services