Carbon Footprint Measurement for 3PLs

Third-party logistics (3PLs) play a strategic role in the global warming fight since logistics activities are the primary sources of greenhouse gases (GHGs) emissions within a supply chain (SC). In order that 3PLs can successfully identify the logistics activities with the highest negative externalities, it is crucial to measure their environmental performance. Albeit, some challenges arise when establishing a methodology to calculate and report carbon footprint (CF) in 3PLs, given their wide range of operating activities. The present study aims to develop and validate a standard methodology for CF measurement and a respective calculation tool for 3PL providers. Besides, it also intends to support organisations to monitor and benchmark their environmental performance with 3PLs with similar profiles. The methodology covers the Portuguese 3PLs’ primary activities, road freight transport and logistics facilities operations. The study finds that 3PLs must continue to collect more and more accurate activity data, as well as collect input data from primary sources, especially concerning road freight transport. Moreover, 3PLs must strengthen external relations and transparency on data exchange, mainly when resorting to common carriers.