Back to basics: what is logistics?
For many Dutch people, it seems so obvious: every day you can buy products from all over the world in the supermarket around the corner. And that new laptop you pick out at a web shop will be delivered to your home for free the next day. But it is not that 'ordinary' at all. Behind it is the hidden strength of the Netherlands: the transport and logistics sector. Logistics ensure that everything gets from its source to its final destination - whether it comes from far away, just nearby, or travels from here to faraway countries. We organise, transport and store everything from raw materials to ship engines, from medicines to fresh produce. And we do so smarter, more sustainably and better every day, together with all our colleagues throughout the chain.
Logistics as a solution to sustainability
Logistics is often not seen as attractive. People still think of noisy diesel trucks and big block boxes along the motorway. But we, the young generation of logistics professionals, actually see opportunities. Opportunities to renew the sector, accelerate sustainability and show that logistics is not the problem, but the solution. We are thinking of AI applications to optimise route planning, perfectly tailored boxes to transport less air, and distribution centres that can become the energy hubs of the future.
We can make much better use of flat roofs by fitting them with solar panels combined with a green roof for better insulation and drainage, and by using batteries to store power and share it with neighbours. And why couldn't a building have a social function? For example, a public gym where employees and local residents can exercise together.
Not every square metre of roof needs to be full of solar panels; enough panels to cover part of your daily consumption is already a huge step forward. And let's be honest: why fill scarce land with solar panels when we could better use that space for something we really need - like new housing? Then we'll get something out of it too.
Sustainable business
Sustainability has long since ceased to be an afterthought. The 2030 and 2050 climate targets are fast approaching. The question is not whether logistics should become more sustainable, but how quickly and effectively we can do so. This transition starts with entrepreneurship. We should not wait for politicians, because there is no time to watch slow decision-making, changing policies and a government that sometimes looks more to the short term than to the future. We must be willing to take risks and take steps.
We are aware that investing in sustainability does not always deliver an immediate financial benefit, but believe it will become a Unique Selling Point in the long run. Companies committed to sustainability now are already setting themselves apart for customers who value environmentally conscious partners. Here, it is important to look beyond just the footprint on home soil. Increasingly, transparency is being demanded about the entire chain: from where the products you sell come from and how they are transported. In the future, this demand will only grow stronger. Those who anticipate now will soon reap the benefits.
In this transition, we young people see an opportunity. We do not let what is not yet settled hold us back. We take the lead in project groups and build change from the bottom up. But we find it equally important to do this together with those who have built the company. They know better than anyone what is best for the organisation and have often been through several transitions.
War on talent
Our generation looks at work differently from previous generations. Of course salary, career opportunities and a nice working environment are important, but when it comes down to it, the impact a company makes is at least as important. We want to work for organisations that look beyond profit. For companies that take responsibility for the world we live in.
This also means that companies that lag behind are at risk. Not only in terms of laws and regulations, but also in 'war on talent'. Young people are increasingly consciously choosing where to work, and a strong sustainability policy can make the difference between attracting new talent or being left behind in the market.
Show how sustainable you are
The choices companies make today determine who will want to work for them tomorrow. Transparency, visibility and determination are essential. Whether through social media or by organising an open day: we need to show that we are driving change. Because the future of logistics is green. And we, the young generation, are making a difference.
