Issue - July/August 2023
IAM-YP: THINK GLOBALLY, ACT LOCALLY
Promoting Sustainability at Every Level
By Navneet Agarwal, Director, Agarwal Packers and Movers Ltd.
In an era where environmental consciousness is paramount, the logistics industry has long faced scrutiny for its carbon emissions and detrimental impact on our planet. However, there are trailblazers emerging who recognize the importance of sustainability and are taking meaningful steps to reduce their carbon footprint. One such example is Agarwal Packers and Movers Ltd. (APML), a company that understands the need for change and has implemented innovative practices to create a greener future.
Double Decker & Trucking Cube Concept: Revolutionizing Efficiency and Conservation
APML has revolutionized the logistics landscape with its Double Decker Vehicle concept. By ingeniously designing vehicles with two layers of decks, APML maximizes the utilization of space. This innovative approach allows heavy and light-weighted cartons to be stacked separately, optimizing cargo capacity and significantly reducing fuel consumption. Through the efficient use of unoccupied space in each vehicle, APML has become a front-runner in minimizing carbon footprints while ensuring the smooth transportation of goods.
APML has taken a significant stride by introducing the innovative concept of trucking cubes. Trucking cubes are ISO containers available in various sizes, ranging from 4ft to 20ft, designed to transport goods securely from manufacturers to end consumers. This novel solution guarantees the preservation of product quality throughout the transportation process, ensuring that consumers receive their goods in pristine condition.
In India, an annual loss of Rs. 420000 million occurs on account of transshipment, while transporting the goods from one place to another. Until now it was considered unavoidable, but APML has redefined the word “unavoidable” by introducing Trucking Cube for Zero Transshipment.
Electric Vehicles: Driving Toward a Cleaner Tomorrow
APML has embarked on an exciting journey toward sustainability by embracing electric vehicles (EVs) and alternative fuels. While the initial investment in this technology may be higher, the long-term benefits are undeniable.
APML’s dedication to sustainability extends beyond its environmental initiatives. As the company continues to grow and evolve, its focus on Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) remains strong. With aspirations of being an ideal platform that gives back to the community, APML sets an example for other businesses. By integrating sustainable practices into our core values, APML showcases the power of responsible decision-making and fosters a sense of trust among its stakeholders.
Technologies that Promote Sustainability in Our Industry
At Agarwal Packers and Movers Ltd., we understand the importance of sustainability and have taken meaningful steps towards it.
1. Fuel
Bio diesel
EV
CNG
Experimenting with hybrid trucks
2. Operations
Zero weight loss
Zero volume loss
Route optimization
Network Optimization
Improving carrying capacity
Driver Training
Proactive maintenance : Tires, engines, etc.
3. Packing
Reducing packing material while improving techniques
Reusing packing material
Recycling of materials
Buying materials from customers
Going to OEM to make packing from recycled paper
4. Sustainable Practices
Save electricity
Reduce water consumption
Holding meetings virtually whenever possible
Making offices as paperless as possible
Carpooling
Using electric carts to move people within the warehouse
Flexible and hybrid working at offices to reduce travel
5. Infrastructure practices for sustainability
Installation of solar panels
Rain water harvesting at hubs
Growing trees in each warehouse
Green warehouse design
Temperature controlling using natural methods
Lighting of warehouse using natural lighting designs
Using sensors for office automation
5-star AC and energy efficient electrical appliances
In the pursuit of creating a more sustainable world, APML has embraced a collaborative approach that involves working closely with stakeholders committed to addressing global challenges. This concerted effort ensures that their collaborations yield impactful solutions that tackle systemic issues and drive positive change.
At the heart of APML’s commitment to sustainability lies our belief in the power of training and development. Recognizing the significant environmental footprint associated with our value chain, we conduct comprehensive training sessions for our employees. These sessions aim to enhance their understanding and knowledge of sustainable practices, from raw material extraction and transformation to distribution and end-of-life treatment.
APML goes beyond mere rhetoric when it comes to sustainability. We actively empower our employees to contribute their ideas and turn them into practical solutions. By fostering a culture that encourages innovation and problem-solving, APML leverages the collective intelligence of its workforce. This investment in employee-driven sustainability initiatives reinforces the company’s commitment to protect the planet and actively participate in shaping a better future.
One of the notable areas where APML exhibits its dedication to sustainability is through its focus on circular logistics. Embracing an optimistic approach, APML places emphasis on recycling and reusing packing materials. By adopting circular logistics practices, APML not only contributes to waste reduction but also realizes cost savings and improves environmental sustainability.
Our team’s collaborative efforts and commitment to sustainability demonstrate our role as a responsible corporate citizen. By engaging with stakeholders, investing in employee-driven solutions, and promoting circular logistics practices, APML sets a positive example for the industry and paves the way for a more sustainable future.
In an era where businesses are increasingly recognizing the importance of social responsibility and environmental stewardship, APML stands out as an example of corporate commitment to sustainable growth and making a positive impact on society. Guided by our belief that businesses can thrive only when the society and environment prosper, APML has undertaken a range of transformative initiatives, leveraging in-house skills and corporate social responsibility grants to create a sustainable and inclusive path to economic growth and prosperity.
One outstanding initiative that exemplifies APML’s dedication to both social welfare and sustainability is the “Nidra Daan Kendra” (Sleep Donation Center). This pioneering initiative is aimed at improving the lives of truck drivers, a vital but often neglected segment of society. Recognizing the dangers posed by sleep deprivation and fatigue among truck drivers, APML has taken a proactive approach to address this issue head-on.
The “Nidra Daan Kendra” initiative provides a lifeline to truck drivers by ensuring they have access to adequate sleep in a secure environment. The centers offer complimentary necessities such as civic amenities, salon services, and medical facilities, along with a designated free parking zone under vigilant security surveillance. This comprehensive support system not only enhances the well-being of truck drivers but also contributes to road safety by reducing the number of accidents caused by driver fatigue.
The impact of APML’s efforts through the “Nidra Daan Kendra” initiative has been remarkable. As of now, approximately 550,000 nights of restful sleep have been provided to truck drivers, resulting in a significant reduction of 1,010 road accidents that would have otherwise claimed lives due to driver restlessness. APML’s commitment to saving lives and improving the overall well-being of truck drivers is a testament to our unwavering dedication to sustainable and responsible business practices.
By integrating sustainability principles into our core operations and investing in initiatives that address societal challenges, APML sets an example for businesses across industries. We understand that true prosperity is achieved not at the expense of the environment or society but through an interconnected approach that prioritizes the well-being of all stakeholders.
APML has been part of the logistics and transportation industry for decades; working behind the scenes of a fast-moving and creative industry requires an agile and intelligent approach to delivering global logistics solutions, and we are a leading green logistics provider. We conduct customer-directed campaigns that are helping the consumer in understanding the value of products and their environmental impacts by taking the unpacked supplies back and paying them the amount against recycling the same.
It is a win-win situation for both the customers and APML as with this approach, we are expressing our strong sense of responsibility towards environmental sustainability.
At APML, we put corporate social responsibility (CSR) at the heart of our identity. CSR efforts should focus on these key areas:
Fostering an environment where our employees thrive
Putting people first
Workplace ethics
Environmental stewardship in the relocation industry
As a company operating in this industry, remember that you also have the power and responsibility to promote social and environmental policies that accelerate positive change in the world and set an example that facilitates a better tomorrow.