As companies start to examine the environmental footprint of their supply chains, attention has often focused on transport and logistics. But while the movement of products across the globe is one of the most visible signs of the contribution of supply chains to climate change, many organisations are starting to look for efficiencies throughout their operations, taking decisions on sustainability back as far as the design stage.

Of course, with rising fuel costs, the argument for addressing transport issues is a compelling one. And there is plenty of room to iron out inefficiencies in long-distance cargo haulage.