samedi 17 janvier 2015

Key Elements In Developing A Sustainable Cold Chain

By Cindy H. Cassidy


When products such as vaccines and perishable food items are being shipped it is essential that they be sufficiently refrigerated in transport, this method of storage and delivery is referred to as a "cold chain". One challenge industries are faced with is being able to carry out this process in such a way that it is less destructive to the environment. The right choices in packaging, minimization of wastes, and disposal all make a difference in establishing a sustainable cold chain.

The key is to identify packaging types which both protect the integrity of the products they contain, and also don't place a high degree of stress on the environment in their manufacture, transport, or disposal. "Green" packaging options can be biodegradable, made from sustainable materials, or reusable. If the amount of packaging is also less, this means further saving of resources and reduced transportation needs.

The best way for packaging companies to get a clear picture of how their shipping methods measure up in terms of the carbon footprint they produce is to hire the services of an organization which specializes in this area. These experts will do a comprehensive analysis of the packaging life-cycle used and point out any improvements needed.

Eliminating waste is one useful tactic for increasing the sustainability of the cold chain shipment system. Minimizing the amount of packaging materials not only means that fewer raw materials are required, but also that it can optimize every delivery allowing more to be shipped in one load.

The concept of reusable packaging also lends itself to eco-friendly shipping practices. Packages that can be readily cleaned and returned to the supplier after delivery may initially cost more to develop but in the long run it will end up saving money and resources. Materials used must rank high in durability if they are to be used repeatedly.

The implementation of recycling can also contribute considerably to the green factor where shipping is concerned. When recovered materials are used to manufacture packaging this eliminates the extra energy needed to ship and process new material, cutting down on greenhouse gas production and space that would have been take up in landfills.

Sometimes landfill disposal is inevitable, in which case it is necessary to select only those packaging types which do less harm to the soil and groundwater. One type of material which fits this criteria is expanded polystyrene, it doesn't break down to produce methane or other harmful substances and it aerates the soil, encouraging plant growth.




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