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The Carbon Footprint of Pharmaceutical Logistics: Calculating Distribution Emissions

Author

Listed:
  • Brett Ashworth

    (Department of Logistics, Stellenbosch University, Private Bag X1, Matieland 7602, South Africa)

  • Martin Johannes du Plessis

    (Department of Industrial Engineering, Stellenbosch University, Private Bag X1, Matieland 7602, South Africa)

  • Leila Louise Goedhals-Gerber

    (Department of Industrial Engineering, Stellenbosch University, Private Bag X1, Matieland 7602, South Africa)

  • Joubert Van Eeden

    (Department of Industrial Engineering, Stellenbosch University, Private Bag X1, Matieland 7602, South Africa)

Abstract

Calculating greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions across the supply chain presents a significant challenge for the pharmaceutical industry in achieving environmental sustainability. This article develops a comprehensive methodology for the data collection and calculation of GHG emissions in pharmaceutical distribution, with a focus on road transport and warehousing. The methodology specifies key data requirements and sources, enhancing transparency and alignment with industry standards, such as the GLEC Framework. Real-world pharmaceutical data were collected from a global logistics company operating in Southern Africa. The methodology was applied, which yielded significantly variable results. The calculated emission intensity factors differ significantly from those in the literature. Emissions from road transport ranged from 239.57 to 6156.80 gCO 2 e/t-km, depending on the vehicle size, load factor, and empty running. Warehousing emissions results show a smaller variance, ranging from 6.07 to 8.85 kgCO 2 e/m 3 or 81.70 to 104.42 kgCO 2 e/t. The insights from this article support the logistics company and other stakeholders in understanding their emissions and data requirements for enhanced assessments to advance sustainable practices in pharmaceutical logistics.

Suggested Citation

  • Brett Ashworth & Martin Johannes du Plessis & Leila Louise Goedhals-Gerber & Joubert Van Eeden, 2025. "The Carbon Footprint of Pharmaceutical Logistics: Calculating Distribution Emissions," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 17(2), pages 1-27, January.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jsusta:v:17:y:2025:i:2:p:760-:d:1570547
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Zahiri, Behzad & Zhuang, Jun & Mohammadi, Mehrdad, 2017. "Toward an integrated sustainable-resilient supply chain: A pharmaceutical case study," Transportation Research Part E: Logistics and Transportation Review, Elsevier, vol. 103(C), pages 109-142.
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