Cold Link Africa October 2024 | Page 9

INCORPORATING COLD CHAIN
EVENTS AND EXHIBITIONS NEWS
Image by © Cold Link Africa
The attendees at the conference .
Image by freepik
Achieving net-zero carbon emissions in the cold chain requires a holistic approach .
measurement capabilities , effective management and control of emissions are impossible . Real-time monitoring and control systems are essential for identifying inefficiencies and implementing corrective measures promptly . This ensures that improvements in carbon emissions management are measurable and impactful across the entire cold chain . “ Temperature management is paramount in preserving product quality and minimising energy waste . Maintaining temperatures within optimal ranges ( typically 2 to 8 degrees Celsius for pharmaceuticals ) avoids unnecessary energy consumption and associated emissions . Real-time monitoring allows for precise adjustment and optimisation of cooling processes .
“ Efficient route management is equally critical . Planning optimal routes minimises fuel consumption and emissions during transport . Unexpected deviations can lead to inefficiencies and additional emissions , underscoring the importance of meticulous route planning and monitoring .
“ Reliable power management is essential . Continuous operation of monitoring and refrigeration technologies is vital to prevent disruptions that could compromise temperature control and increase energy consumption ,” says Zollner .
“ Achieving net-zero carbon emissions in the cold chain requires a holistic approach . It involves deploying efficient technologies , optimizing processes , and implementing robust monitoring and control systems . By addressing these key areas , we can significantly reduce the environmental impact of cold chain operations while ensuring product quality and safety .
“ So , what does this integration of realtime data sources show us ? Essentially , it highlights the need to consolidate realtime measurements across various data points within the cold chain . Temperature monitoring alone is insufficient . We must integrate GPS data from routes , vehicle data including load , tire pressure , and speed , and even logistics data such as transit durations and any deviations from optimal parameters . These deviations can lead to inefficiencies and increased carbon emissions .
“ The complexity arises from the necessity to merge temperature monitoring with these diverse data sources . We can no longer rely on multiple disparate platforms . Instead , all data should converge onto a unified platform to provide actionable insights ,” says Zollner .
“ Real-time monitoring is pivotal because it allows for proactive adjustments . Unlike offline or delayed data collection methods , real-time data empowers us to make immediate corrections along the cold chain . This capability is crucial given the numerous external factors influencing cold chain operations , such as fluctuating external temperatures , unforeseen road closures , logistical deviations , and other unpredictable events .
“ Furthermore , integration across different technologies and data sources into a single analytical and visualisation platform is essential . This integrated approach enables us to gain comprehensive insights and comparisons across the entire lifecycle of products from production to consumption within the cold chain .
“ In conclusion , the effective management of net carbon emissions in the cold chain hinges on real-time data integration and monitoring . By leveraging integrated data platforms and real-time analytics , stakeholders can optimize operations , mitigate inefficiencies , and ultimately reduce the environmental impact of cold chain logistics ,” says Zollner . CLA

COLD LINK AFRICA • October 2024 www . coldlinkafrica . co . za 9