E-Logistics and the Natural Environment

This chapter examines the environmental implications of e-commerce from the perspective of the movement of materials and information through the supply chain. It focuses on the two main dimensions of the closed-loop supply chain—forward and reverse e-logistics functions—and provides an overview of logistics and the various technologies that enable the electronic logistics function. The chapter discusses e-logistics elements and their implications for environmental issues, ranging from substitution of delivery mechanisms, variations in packaging, to new methods of managing materials throughout the logistics function. It also provides a definition of reverse logistics and various practices associated with the implementation and management of the reverse e-logistics function with respect to the natural environment. The chapter also focuses on the role of industry, government and academia, all of which are heavily involved in the evolution and development of several areas. The environmental impacts of e-logistics and reverse e-logistics have major implications for stakeholders such as business, government and academic institutions.