Enhancing Waste Management in Cold Supply Chains via Digital Transformation

The urgency of addressing the climate emergency has underscored the need for immediate action to mitigate its catastrophic effects, with cold chains identified as significant contributors to greenhouse gas emissions and environmental degradation. This paper explores the potential of digitalization to enhance sustainability within cold chains by leveraging technologies such as IoT, AI, and blockchain. Through a comprehensive investigation, the study aims to identify opportunities for optimizing processes, reducing waste, and minimizing environmental impact throughout the cold chain network. The research addresses urgent sustainability challenges, investigates the influence of digitalization on waste management, and provides practical insights aligned with global sustainability goals. Drawing on theoretical frameworks and empirical evidence, the study develops a framework integrating Industry 4.0 principles with Sustainable Corporate Theory to address waste efficiency in cold supply chains. The framework offers practical strategies for operationalizing waste efficiency and promoting sustainability within cold chain management. Implications of the findings include enhanced efficiency, improved product quality, sustainability compliance, and cost savings. However, the study acknowledges limitations and highlights avenues for future research, including technological challenges, behavioural factors, environmental impact assessment, and long-term sustainability considerations. Overall, this paper contributes to advancing our understanding of digital transformation in cold chain logistics and underscores the importance of addressing sustainability challenges in supply chain management.