Q&A: Locus Robotics on Circular Economy in Logistics

Peter Ashe is the Vice President of Operations at Locus Robotics, bringing more than 30 years of expertise in robotics and automation to the role.

A results-driven leader with both an MBA and a BS in Engineering, Peter is known for his dynamic, hands-on approach to tackling challenges and driving efficiency.

His deep experience spans tactical improvement programmes and large-scale strategic initiatives alike. With a global perspective developed through extensive work across Europe, Asia and the US, he excels in collaborating with diverse teams in manufacturing, service and sales.

Here, Peter discusses best practices for adapting a circular economy to the automation of the logistics sector. 

What is a circular economy and why is it important for the logistics industry?

The logistics industry faces the growing challenge of becoming more sustainable and adopting the concept of a circular economy in all its processes. Automation can be the solution. A circular economy is a concept that not only tackles climate change and biodiversity loss but also promotes an economic system that avoids the progressive consumption of finite resources.

To achieve a sustainable transformation, companies must change their business and management models to meet the increasing sustainability expectations of consumers, investors, regulators and the public. This is possible through the adoption of green logistics, a set of sustainable measures and policies aimed at reducing the unwanted impact of warehouses.

Currently, the adaptation of these alternative policies in infrastructures and logistics systems is not only necessary but also welcomed by society and consumers.

A recent Nielsen survey showed that 81% of consumers find it important for companies to implement programmes that improve the environment. And, while consumers care about recyclable packaging, clean labels and eco-friendly ingredients, businesses can use a circular economy to improve sustainability targets across their supply chain, especially in their warehouses.

How does Locus Robotics contribute to sustainability in warehouse operations?

Locus Robotics, a leading global supplier of innovative, high-reliability warehouse automation solutions – including autonomous mobile robots (AMRs) – prioritises sustainability in its operations.

For example, Locus uses a Robots-as-a-Service (RaaS) business model that aligns with a circular economy model and is an alternative to the current linear model of “take, make, waste”. This model involves leasing, reusing, repairing, refurbishing and recycling materials and products as long as possible.

The goal is to keep materials in circulation and minimise waste. Another important aspect of Locus Robotics is its regional manufacturing and global field service operations. These capabilities enable reduced freight transportation, which is a major contributor to air pollution. 

For example, Locus has dedicated manufacturing operations in both the US and Europe that specialise in repairing, upgrading and refurbishing returned bots so they can be reused in that region. They also have a global field service team of experts that perform preventive maintenance and repairs on-site at customers’ warehouses, eliminating the need to transport products back to the factory.

According to the Natural Resources Defense Council, transportation accounts for the largest share of pollution in the US, making efforts such as this one valuable in eliminating processes that pollute the environment.

What role does digitalisation play in achieving sustainable logistics?

Organisations must also focus on digitalisation to achieve more sustainable logistics.

This requires the implementation of technologies for the optimisation of routes and the elimination of empty miles that favour the reduction of the carbon footprint. With this, warehouses achieve an efficient use of space, minimising the need for new construction or extensions, conserving resources and reducing the environmental impact of construction activities.

In addition, automation can reduce the carbon footprint of warehouse operations by minimising the need for excessive lighting, heating and cooling in certain areas. Each of these approaches integrates automation, digitalisation and strategic collaboration to promote more sustainable logistics practices.

Reducing carbon emissions and improving energy efficiency are common goals in seeking a positive environmental impact through technological innovations and sustainable strategies, but aligning with a circular economy makes reaching these goals more attainable.

Why is adopting a circular economy and automation necessary for the logistics industry as we look to the year ahead?

The adoption of a circular economy in the logistics sector and automation is necessary in 2024 to face current environmental challenges.

Sharing, maintaining, reusing, refurbishing and recycling are practices that, if effectively integrated along with the implementation of technology like autonomous mobile robots or strategies that favour reuse such as RaaS, can transform logistics into a more sustainable industry.

These practices, when implemented correctly, can also maximise productivity and lower costs for businesses, making them a sustainable option all around.

Receive the next edition of Scope 3 Magazine by signing up for its newsletter. 

As part of this portfolio, make sure you check out Procurement Magazine and also sign up to our global conference series - Procurement & Supply Chain LIVE.

Scope 3 Magazine is a BizClik brand.