Decarbonisation of warehouse processes by logistics service providers

Purpose: The purpose of the research was to analyse the methods of decarbonising warehouse processes in the activities of logistics service providers and to identify the main barriers on the way to achieving the assumptions of the concept of green warehouse. Design/methodology/approach: The article consists of two parts: literature research and empirical research using an interview questionnaire among 3PL providers. The literature research included bibliometric analysis using the Scopus database and VOSviewer software focusing on TSL industry and sustainability. The literature review outlined the main assumptions of the green warehouse concept. In empirical part of the research an interview questionnaire was employed. This approach enabled the identification of the main decarbonisation methods and the barriers associated with their implementation in warehouses. Findings: The article outlines initiatives undertaken by 3PL providers to decarbonize warehouse processes. The measures identified primarily focus on implementing energy- efficient solutions. The research allowed to establish the barriers associated with these methods. Those barriers were categorized into three main areas: organizational, technical, and financial. Research limitations/implications: A main limitation encountered during the research was the small number of enterprises that agreed to participate. This limitation was primarily due to the extended duration of the interviews. Future research could potentially be expanded to include a broader range of 3PL service providers. Practical implications: The research findings exemplify practical actions for logistics service providers to implement the green warehouse concept. The decarbonization methods presented offer inspiration for other companies in the TSL sector. It should be emphasized that the surveyed entities were interested in further cooperation in identifying new areas where decarbonization tools could be implemented. Originality/value: The article presents an analysis of the decarbonisation methods used in warehouse operations by 3PL providers and main barriers concerning achievement of green warehouse assumptions. Keywords: logistics service provider, sustainable development, green warehouse. Category of the paper: research paper.