Supply Chain Frontiers issue #47
The Zaragoza Logistics Center (ZLC) in Zaragoza, Spain, is working with consulting company INCLAM S.A., headquartered in Madrid, Spain, to develop a software solution called CO₂ Logistic, for calculating the carbon footprint of logistics facilities and related activities.
Enterprises in the logistics space – including ports, cargo terminals, freight carriers, and logistics parks – are likely to be the first adopters of the new tool. The developers also anticipate demand from manufacturers, since the software can be applied at the product level to calculate carbon emission levels, where companies have the necessary data.
“We are helping INCLAM to clarify the processes and terminology used in logistics and to build this information into the solution,” said Susana Val, Assistant Research Professor, Transport Research Group Manager, ZLC.
The fact that CO₂ Logistic is being designed specifically for logistics applications distinguishes it from other solutions that evaluate carbon footprints, explained Val. It can be used to calculate the emissions levels at a distribution center, for example, taking into consideration specialized activities such as loading/unloading and stacking operations.
In addition, the tool’s design follows the requirements of ISO 14069, a new ISO standard for quantifying and reporting greenhouse gas emissions according to the directions that are now being written. The standard’s introduction has been delayed, but is expected to be released at the end of this year. In addition, the tool is aligned with the requirements of ISO 14064 and GHG protocol at the organizational level, and the PAC 2050 standard at the product level.
A pilot project to test CO₂ Logistic is under way with Spanish freight carrier Carreras. The transportation company is based in the PLAZA logistics park near Zaragoza, and wants to generate a precise figure for its greenhouse gas emissions as part of a carbon footprint reduction program.
The development work on the new IT tool is scheduled for completion by mid-December 2012.
For more information on CO₂ Logistic, contact Dr. Susana Val.