SUSTAINABLE MANAGEMENT IN THE DELIVERY SECTOR

Abstract

The world has witnessed unprecedented population growth, reaching 8 billion by 2023. Factors such as technological advancements, medical breakthroughs, and improved living conditions have fueled this surge. With heightened life expectancies and rapid population increments, efficient resource management is essential. Our ecosystems, which evolved over billions of years, have been significantly impacted by the mere 200 generations of modern civilization, particularly since the Industrial Revolution. As we navigate the fourth Industrial Revolution, marked by the Internet of Things (IoT) and smart technologies, there is a palpable need for sustainable business models. Notably, transportation, a major environmental offender, contributes 16.2% to global greenhouse emissions, with road transport alone accounting for 11.9%. This paper focuses on innovative sustainable strategies in the delivery sector, targeting a holistic approach grounded in the three pillars of sustainability: People, Planet, and Profit. Following the in-depth research interviews undertaken with top-management executives in the traditional delivery businesses, therefore the current paper attempts to assess the good practices in sustainable management, following the 5 management principles: planning, organizing, directing, staff and controlling, in the context of the AI-driven business models and find paths for further improvement following the three pillars of sustainability: People, Planet and Profit.