Freight forwarders are an integral part of the supply chain, linking various actors within the flower business, like growers, carriers, customs authorities, handling agents, and importers. For this reason, Logiztik Alliance Group highlights that the airfreight industry as a whole has an important role in promoting initiatives, such as the adoption of the electronic Air Waybill (e-AWB) and Sustainable Airfreight Fuel, that contribute to reducing the industry's carbon footprint. As part of its efforts to reduce its carbon footprint, Logiztik Alliance Group has recently completed the installation of solar panels at one of its warehouses located near Mariscal Sucre Airport in Quito, Ecuador.
Logiztik Alliance's sustainability vision
"We adopted a sustainability vision based on ESG criteria. We have three core pillars of sustainability: People first, reducing our carbon footprint in operations, and promoting sustainable transportation options. This year, we intensified our focus on implementing key sustainability projects. The benefits of these projects are not only applied to our company but to anyone in the floral industry who wants to adopt these types of initiatives. The industry would benefit from these measures as a reduction in carbon footprint and environmental responsibility helps the industry to meet customer demand, to enhance its competitiveness, and to comply with environmental regulations,"Logiztik Alliance Group states.
They explain:"Consumer behavior has shifted, especially among younger generations and those concerned about environmental issues. Therefore, businesses such as supermarkets and wholesalers are demanding more environmentally responsible processes from farms and freight forwarders. In addition, compensation or reduced carbon emissions may help the devaluation of the product or its perception due to environmental concerns which helps to increase the competitiveness of products in our region. Environmental regulations are increasing, especially in the EU. Policies such as CSDR and SAF requirements are some of the policies that are here to stay for EU companies. For European companies in the floral industry, buying products shipped responsibly helps them with the compliance and reporting of these matters."
Solar panels
This vision has among others resulted in the installation of solar panels. In February 2024, the company initiated the installation of solar panels covering 1080 square meters at one of its warehouses near Aeropuerto Mariscal Sucre in Quito, Ecuador. These panels are composed of monocrystalline technology. According to Logiztik Alliance Group, this technology is chosen for its enhanced efficiency and durability compared to other panel types: "Even under low sunlight conditions, they can generate energy, thanks to their higher energy density. With an estimated annual production of around 345,000 kWh, these panels are projected to mitigate approximately 110 tons of CO2 emissions annually. This reduction is equivalent to the emissions from manufacturing approximately 260,000 plastic water bottles."
Collaboration with SAF programs in the region
Logizik Alliance Groups adds: "We believe that sustainability is a shared responsibility, and products from an environmentally responsible industry are going to be well received in the markets where we perform." In cooperation with air freight partners, the company has been working to include more eco-friendly transportation solutions for its customers. The company states it has made efforts to pioneer SAF contribution in the region, partnering with airlines such as Air France KLM Martinair Cargo. "This year, Logiztik Alliance Colombia became the first freight forwarder in Colombia to join the Air France KLM Martinair Cargo Sustainable Aviation Fuel program. The program uses fuel from recycled oils such as cooking oil, a cleaner substitute for conventional jet fuel. It is derived from renewable feedstock, emits approximately 75% less CO₂ than fossil jet fuel during its entire life cycle, from production to combustion, and reduces other harmful emissions such as particulate matter and sulfur. Logiztik Alliance Ecuador previously became the first freight forwarder in the Americas to partner with the AFKLMP SAF Program in both cargo and passenger divisions in 2021," the company concludes.
For more information:
Logiztik Alliance Group
www.logiztikalliance.com