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Pioneering Sustainability: Using RTLS to measure Scope 3 Emissions in the industrial, manufacturing, and logistics

Source: Scope 3 Standard, page 5.


In the pursuit of sustainable practices, businesses in the industrial, manufacturing, and logistics sectors are increasingly turning to advanced technologies to measure and mitigate their environmental impact. Scope 3 emissions, encompassing indirect impacts across the value chain, present a unique challenge that requires innovative solutions.

This article delves into how the adoption of advanced real-time location systems (RTLS 4.0), can revolutionise the measurement and monitoring of Scope 3 emissions in these industries.


RTLS to measure Scope 3 Emissions

RTLS 4.0 uses cutting-edge technologies such as Industrial IoT, Low-Energy Bluetooth (BLE), Ultrawide Band (UWB), and advanced sensors to provide real-time insights into the location, movement of, and conditions experienced by assets and products. This level of visibility not only enhances operational efficiency but also plays a pivotal role in understanding and optimising the environmental impact of business activities.

Real-Time Visibility and Route Optimisation

RTLS capabilities offer real-time visibility into the movement of assets and goods across the supply chain. This information empowers businesses to optimise transportation routes, reducing fuel consumption and minimising carbon emissions associated with logistics operations.

Energy Monitoring and Optimisation

By also incorporating current measurement technologies, RTLS 4.0 enables businesses to monitor energy consumption patterns within various operations. This includes real-time tracking of machinery energy usage in manufacturing, allowing for informed decisions to optimize production processes and minimise energy-related emissions.


Integration for Comprehensive Scope 3 Emissions Management:

The integration of RTLS 4.0 capabilities provides a comprehensive solution for measuring and monitoring Scope 3 emissions across industrial, manufacturing, and logistics sectors:

Dynamic Supply Chain Insights

RTLS 4.0 offers real-time insights into the movement of goods, facilitating the identification of energy-intensive nodes in the supply chain. This data, combined with current measurement insights, enables businesses to prioritise sustainability efforts effectively.

Optimised Transportation Strategies

The dynamic tracking of vehicles and assets through RTLS 4.0 enhances logistics efficiency. By combining this with current measurement data, businesses can make informed decisions on energy-efficient transportation modes, contributing to reduced Scope 3 emissions associated with transportation.

Energy-Efficient Manufacturing Processes

RTLS 4.0 integration with current measurement technologies allows for real-time monitoring of energy-intensive machinery and processes in manufacturing. This empowers businesses to adjust operations dynamically, reducing energy consumption and minimizing associated emissions.

Collaborative Sustainability Initiatives:

The transparency provided by RTLS’ capabilities fosters collaboration among stakeholders in the value chain. Businesses can share real-time data on energy consumption and transportation emissions, encouraging a collective effort towards sustainable practices.


Benefits and Challenges:

Adopting RTLS 4.0 capabilities for Scope 3 emissions monitoring brings several advantages, including:

  • Operational Cost Savings: Optimisation of transportation routes and energy-efficient manufacturing processes leads to cost savings through improved operational efficiency.

  • Data-Driven Decision-Making: Real-time insights empower businesses to make informed decisions, allowing for dynamic adjustments based on current conditions and sustainability goals.

  • Enhanced Stakeholder Engagement: Demonstrating a commitment to sustainability through comprehensive Scope 3 emissions monitoring enhances a company’s reputation and fosters positive relationships with environmentally conscious stakeholders.

However, challenges such as the initial investment in RTLS 4.0 capabilities and the need for standardised metrics and reporting frameworks should be considered to ensure accurate and comparable data across industries.


Conclusion

As businesses strive for sustainability in the industrial, manufacturing, and logistics sectors, RTLS 4.0 emerges as a key ally in tackling the complexities of Scope 3 emissions. By harnessing the capabilities of real-time location systems and current measurement technologies, companies can not only measure but also actively reduce their environmental impact. RTLS 4.0 integration represents a significant leap towards a sustainable future, where businesses play a pivotal role in shaping an eco-friendly economy.


What next?

Pathfindr offers cutting-edge solutions tailored to industrial, manufacturing, and logistics businesses, providing real-time visibility, optimising transportation routes, and dynamically adjusting energy-intensive processes. With a proven track record, speaking with Pathfindr opens doors to data-driven decisions, fostering a partnership that understands industry intricacies and drives tangible environmental and operational benefits.

This conversation is a step toward a greener, more efficient, and responsible business journey with a pioneer in sustainable practices.

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