Sustainable freight transport purchasing

Paper in proceeding, 2012

This paper addresses in what way the freight transport purchasing process can influence environmental impact of freight transport. Activities in the transport purchasing process are connected to the logistical variables modal split, handling factor, average length of haul, lading factor, empty running, fuel efficiency and carbon intensity of fuel, known to be related to CO2 emissions. Specification of requirements, in particular time demands, is shown as important for the environmental impact. Multiple case studies of freight transport purchasing processes are analysed with regards to influence on the logistical variables. Relating activities in freight transport purchasing processes to logistical variables influencing the environmental impact is of importance to be able to adapt the purchasing process to accommodate environmental considerations and reduce CO2 emissions. The model developed in this paper can be used for increasing awareness among both purchasing and general managers on how purchasing freight transport can be connected to environmental impact.