Overview
- Maximising the space reduces waste
- Faster warehouse operations reduce energy consumption
- Smart inventory and storage lead to smaller physical footprint
- Labels and organized disposal bins can promote segregation
Road to Zero Waste in Singapore
Singapore introduced the Resource Sustainability Act last year. Through this law, they aim to lessen the waste in the country. Waste increased seven times over the last 40 years in Singapore. Now, they aim to reduce it through resource-efficient strategies. Consequently, businesses need to shift to more sustainable production. Sustainable warehouse management practices help in achieving this goal.
Sustainability and Sustainable Warehouse Management
Back in 2015, the UN released its Sustainable Development Goals. Everyone suddenly knew what sustainability was. Everyone wanted to be part of a better 2030. However, sustainability is a broad topic. It’s not just making sure we don’t deplete our resources. Sustainability promotes balance. Sustainability keeps in mind the needs of future generations. Therefore, sustainable warehouse management uses a systematic approach to reduce waste. It should target the three pillars of sustainability: environment, social, and economic.
Elements for Sustainable Warehouse Management
Many elements affect the sustainability of a warehouse. In addressing some of these factors, you reduce the waste in your warehouse. Having a warehouse management system leads to a greener warehouse.
Maximising the space reduces waste
A good layout inside the warehouse reduces a lot of waste. It can save time and reduce waiting waste. At the same time, it also lessens transportation waste. Having the shelves set up in an accessible area allows for a more efficient workflow inside the warehouse. This speeds up the warehouse operations. Additionally, it reduces the over-processing or extra work that employees might do.
Faster warehouse operations reduce energy consumption
You might not think so, but having a warehouse management system reduces energy consumption. The warehouse management system speeds up the flow of operations. This, in turn, lessens the cycle time in warehousing. Shorter cycle times lead to shorter hours and less labour. Shorter hours mean less use of lights, fans, and other machines in the warehouse. Not only does this cut back costs, but it also lessens energy consumption.
Smart inventory and storage lead to a smaller physical footprint
Some predictions see warehouses getting smaller in the future. Businesses build their warehouses up, not wider. Maximising space not only lessens the waste but also lessens the need for physical land. Through sustainable warehouse management, the storage of materials becomes easier. Sometimes, storage isn’t even a problem! Sustainable warehouse management avoids problems with over-production and surplus. This is from inventory data that the system also updates!
Labels and organized disposal bins can promote segregation
A sustainable warehouse incorporates labels and disposal bins. Having the two of these promotes segregation. Through segregation, recycling becomes easier too. Labels can not only be used for products. It can also be used in the disposal zones. This way, the staff know where they can put recyclable materials in. Organized disposal bins mean they are located at convenient locations. This assures you that people segregate the wastes properly.
Companies that use warehouse management systems increased labour productivity by 0.35%. Additionally, they are doing their part in the country’s Road to Zero Waste master plan. If you want to know how your company can have sustainable warehouse management practices, contact Qbasis today!
