Redefining Cold Chain Standards: A Shift Toward Sustainability and Efficiency in Food Logistics

For nearly a century, the cold chain industry has complied with a freezing standard of -18°C (or just below 0°F) when transporting and storing perishable goods around the globe. In his article, “Revolutionizing The Cold Chain: Reducing Freezing Standards To Combat Climate Change” published on Forbes, DP World COO Morten Johansen discusses a significant shift in the cold chain industry aimed at enhancing food security and addressing climate change impacts.

Historically, the industry has maintained a standard freezing temperature of minus 18°C. But Johansen's company, DP World, is advocating for a change to minus 15°C, arguing that it can significantly reduce energy use and greenhouse gas emissions without compromising food safety or quality.

The cold chain's role in global energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions is substantial, accounting for up to 5% of global energy needs and 2.5% of total greenhouse gas emissions. Johansen’s article highlights the waste problem associated with inadequate refrigeration, which leads to the loss of millions of tons of food annually, further contributing to greenhouse gases.

A 2023 study supported by DP World suggests that the proposed temperature adjustment could reduce carbon dioxide emissions by approximately 17.7 million metric tons annually—equivalent to the emissions from 3.8 million cars. This change is also projected to decrease costs in the supply chain by 5% to 12%, enhancing competitiveness in the industry.

Johansen emphasizes the need for collective effort and leadership in adopting these new standards to ensure the success of this transformation in the cold chain sector. He advocates for a systematic approach involving clear communication, rigorous testing, and collaborative stakeholder engagement to implement these changes effectively.

This initiative represents a proactive step towards more sustainable logistics practices, with potential significant impacts on environmental sustainability and food security worldwide. Read the full article here: “Revolutionizing The Cold Chain: Reducing Freezing Standards To Combat Climate Change.”