Title: Environmental impacts of cold chain distribution operations: a novel portable refrigerated unit

Authors: Ivan Ferretti; Laura Mazzoldi; Simone Zanoni

Addresses: Department of Mechanical and Industrial Engineering, University of Brescia, via Branze, 38–25123 Brescia, Italy ' Department of Mechanical and Industrial Engineering, University of Brescia, via Branze, 38–25123 Brescia, Italy ' Department of Mechanical and Industrial Engineering, University of Brescia, via Branze, 38–25123 Brescia, Italy

Abstract: This paper presents a model for the evaluation of the environmental impacts associated with the management of cold supply chain, considering transport and storage activities. A novel portable refrigerated unit (PRU) for the management of goods along the cold chain is presented, and its performances, in terms of emissions at different distribution stages, are compared to those of traditional cold chain equipment. A mathematical model based on costs and environmental impacts has been developed. Moreover, a case study is presented so as to show the usefulness of the model proposed. Numerical analyses are provided in order to demonstrate the efficiency of the new equipment, compared to the traditional refrigeration technology involved in distribution chains. Environmental benefits and efficiency of the new equipment are considered, as well as energy consumption reduction. The proposed system may help companies to pursue more sustainable practices in their cold chain activities.

Keywords: cold chain; refrigerated equipment; environmental impact.

DOI: 10.1504/IJLSM.2018.094938

International Journal of Logistics Systems and Management, 2018 Vol.31 No.2, pp.267 - 297

Received: 11 Nov 2016
Accepted: 27 Apr 2017
Published online: 27 Sep 2018 *

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