Efficiency analysis of the innovation-driven sustainable logistics industry

The logistics industry is at the heart of socio-economic development. Disruption in the logistics and supply chain industry grounded many sectors to a halt at the height of COVID-19 with economic and environmental implications. This study examines the efficiency and interconnections among innovation, energy, infrastructure, and logistics performance as the logistics industry strives to attain a green supply chain while maintaining economic growth and environmental sustainability. To capture these relationships, a network data envelopment analysis model is designed for efficiency analysis. 36 % of the evaluated countries had below-average efficiency. Results also indicate innovation and energy sustainability as drivers of efficiency and sustainability in the logistics industry. This implies the need for innovation in logistics energy infrastructure by decarbonizing the logistics industry. Regional and national partnerships in the technological development of green energy to power the logistics industry are recommended. • Efficiency measurement of medium to high logistics performance index countries. • Network data envelopment analysis is used for efficiency analysis. • Innovation boosts the overall efficiency of the logistics industry. • Renewable energy innovation is imperative for a sustainable logistics industry.