Greener than thou

The logistics sector is one of the EU’s big success stories. With the integration and liberalisation of European markets, significant demand has been generated for trade both within the EU and with other countries. Currently, the sector accounts for more than 14 pct of the EU’s gross domestic product. The more established major logistics markets of western Europe (Germany, France the Netherlands) are now being joined by the newer members of the EU – with Poland chief amongst them. But as is the case with any major expansion of industry, economic development is followed by increasing concern about its broader impact on society and the environment. The embrace by national governments and the European Commission of the concept of sustainable development has led to a number of white papers, discussion documents and initiatives targeted at raising consciousness about the issue and implementing measures to promote greater sustainability. Logistics has been no exception to t