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Co-funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author or authors only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or the Foundation for the Development of the Education System. Neither the European Union nor the entity providing the grant can be held responsible for them.

Driving Change: Real SME Stories Behind Greener Supply Chains

At Innovating 4 Earth, we believe meaningful innovation starts small. Across Europe, logistics SMEs are proving that sustainability is not just for large corporations. Through practical changes, collaboration and creativity, smaller firms are finding effective ways to make supply chains greener.

Real change from real companies

LEMAN (Nordics/Europe)

LEMAN reports steady annual emissions reductions and now sources over 70% of its operational energy from renewables. It also shares transparent logistics KPIs with customers, showing how clean energy and open data can drive joint progress.

FERCAM (Italy/Europe)

FERCAM is phasing in low-emission vehicles on predictable routes and upgrading depots to improve energy efficiency. Through its Echo Labs initiative, it is testing circular logistics models such as shared facilities and modular equipment to cut waste and lower costs.

SOGEMA (Italy)

By standardising pallets, right-sizing packaging and consolidating routes, SOGEMA has improved load factors, reduced damages and lowered fuel use ,all without major investment.

SDK Logistics (Denmark)

SDK coordinates shipments across customers and uses off-peak delivery windows to shorten routes and reduce congestion. A simple telematics rollout helps maintain these gains through better visibility and planning.

Florim Ceramiche (Italy)

Known for sustainable manufacturing, Florim has extended its approach to logistics by combining on-site solar generation with automation and improved loading processes. The result is cleaner, more predictable operations and reduced daytime electricity demand.

How SMEs can follow their lead

You do not need a large budget or a specialist team to make an impact. Start with a few focused steps:

  • Fleet and transport: add idling alerts, coach eco-driving and identify where smaller or electric vehicles fit best.


  • Warehousing: switch to LEDs with sensors, improve insulation and airflow, and install rooftop solar where viable.


  • Packaging and loading: right-size cartons, standardise pallets and trial reusable transit packaging.


  • Data and reporting: track energy, kilometres and emissions with clear, consistent methods.


Within months, these measures can reduce costs, cut emissions and improve operational visibility.

Build knowledge, then scale

The Innovating 4 Earth Starter Kit and Good Practice Compendium offer free, practical tools — from fleet management to energy-aware data practices — to help SMEs turn small steps into lasting change. By learning from others and applying proven methods, SMEs can strengthen both performance and sustainability.

Sustainability does not require sweeping investment. Across Europe, small actions are adding up and when shared, they drive sector-wide progress. Innovating 4 Earth celebrates these successes and invites more SMEs to join the move towards cleaner, smarter operations. Explore the resources on innovating4earth.eu

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