117
Good Practice
Environment
Global Compact International Yearbook 2013
world in 2050, it takes a far-reaching
look into the future of trade, business,
and society.
More than 40 well-known experts, includ-
ing Klaus Töpfer – the former German
environment minister and former direc-
tor of the UN Environment Programme–
helped develop the futuristic scenarios.
The study describes five far-reaching,
occasionally radical, versions of life in
2050,
and it is complemented by a series
of multifaceted essays contemplating
various aspects of the future (see the box
for more on these).
Of course, in reality, the future will not
conform to any one scenario, but may
contain elements from all these hypoth-
eses. In this regard, the most impor-
tant common themes to emerge from
among the scenarios are the broadly
transformed role of logistics, along with
a more prominent role of urban areas
and the importance of sustainability
topics. In particular, the threat posed by
climate change stands out, calling for a
responsible approach to the environment
as a crucial consideration for shaping
the future.
Taking responsibility for tomorrow
In the words of Deutsche Post DHL CEO
Frank Appel, “All of us must realize that
it is our responsibility today to set the
direction for tomorrow and the day after
tomorrow.”
Logistics have always moved the world
and are doing so today in a much more
resource-efficient and sustainable man-
ner. Logistics companies are taking re-
sponsibility for their actions, while also
helping their business customers operate
in a more environmentally responsible
manner. By taking a proactive role in
seeking better alternatives and sparking a
dialogue onmore environmentally sound
business practices, Deutsche Post DHL is
upholding the spirit and Principles of
the UN Global Compact to help deliver
a better world for tomorrow.
About Deutsche Post DHL
Deutsche Post DHL is the world’s leading mail and logistics services group.
Some 475,000 employees in more than 220 countries and territories form
a global network focused on service, quality, and sustainability. In 2012,
Deutsche Post DHL revenues exceeded €55 billion. The Group operates a
fleet of more than 80,000 vehicles – some 1,500 of which are powered by
alternative methods – and around 250 dedicated aircraft.
Delivering responsibility
Deutsche Post DHL is committed to making a
positive contribution to society and the environ-
ment. More about its corporate responsibility
program:
www.dp-dhl.com/en/responsibility.html
Scenario 3
describes a world where individual-
ization and personalized consumption are
pervasive, driven by 3-D printing, leading to a
rise in regional trade streams, with only raw
materials and data still flowing globally.
Scenario 4
describes a less rosy world beset by
economic hardship, excessive nationalism, and
protectionism, leading to international conflicts
over resource deposits.
And, in
Scenario 5
,
accelerated climate change
results in repeated supply failures and the
need to create resilient, regionalized supply
structures. The resilient world in 2050 relies on
a logistics sector that ensures supply-security
as a top priority, with backup infrastructure to
guarantee reliable transport in unstable times.