More than four in five logistics professionals expect climate change to require a fundamental redesign of logistics networks, according to the first Global Sustainable Logistics Survey.
The study, published by Kühne Logistics University (KLU) and the Kuehne Climate Center, surveyed 1,085 logistics professionals across 64 countries and is intended to provide a baseline for measuring progress during the UN Decade of Sustainable Transport from 2026 to 2035.
Some 83% of respondents believe climate change will require a fundamental redesign of logistics networks, but only 45% consider current adaptation measures adequate for the foreseeable future.
Extreme heat was identified as the most urgent threat to logistics assets and operations across every transport mode and region surveyed.
Climate-proofing infrastructure, climate risk assessment and scenario planning and digital tools for monitoring climate risks were identified as the three most effective adaptation measures. However, according to the report, fewer than half of those surveyed consider current adaptation efforts adequate.
The research also found broad agreement between logistics providers and their customers over which measures can reduce emissions. However, it found that adoption is lagging for solutions requiring significant infrastructure, investment or policy support, including low-carbon fuels, fleet electrification and shifting freight to rail and waterways.
Skills represent another potential barrier, according to the survey. The research identified shortages in emissions calculation and reporting expertise in several regions (notably Latin America, Sub-Saharan Africa and parts of Asia), whereas 43% of respondents in Western Europe reported a shortage of systems-thinking skills.
Professor Johannes Meuer, lead investigator of the survey, said: “Sustainable logistics solutions exist, but too few are making it from research and pilots into everyday practice.”
The survey will be repeated during the UN Decade of Sustainable Transport to track changes in the adoption of sustainable logistics practices.
Responsible Supply Chain Conference Singapore takes place on 2 December. Find out more on the official website
Further editions are planned in Brussels in March 2027 and London in June 2027.
