In a significant step towards improving cold chain logistics in Nigeria, a pilot program under the IFC TechEmerge Sustainable Cooling Innovation program initiative is introducing Phase Change Material (PCM) technology to boost efficiency and sustainability in temperature-controlled transportation. Through partnerships with SPAR, a supermarket division of the Artee Group, and local delivery partner IMI, this project aims to preserve perishable goods more effectively in Nigeria’s complex logistics environment.
About the Pilot
The pilot involves a fleet of four trucks equipped with PCM technology, designed to maintain optimal temperature ranges to ensure product quality during transportation. The fleet includes two 14-ft trucks for chilled goods and two 18-ft dual-chamber trucks capable of sustaining both chilled and frozen temperatures. These trucks use thermoTab active systems with PCM, which takes 6-8 hours to charge at the warehouse and maintains the desired temperature for up to 12 hours, making them suitable for short and long-haul deliveries.
Temperature-controlled logistics (TCL) is crucial for ensuring perishable items are delivered in top quality, yet inefficiencies in TCL systems contribute to substantial food waste globally—estimated at $1.2 trillion annually—and challenge the sustainability of food supply chains. Integrating PCM technology into the fleet is expected to significantly enhance operational efficiency, reducing food waste while promoting environmental sustainability.
Benefits of PCM Technology
- Reduced Carbon Footprint: PCM technology optimizes fuel usage, helping to reduce greenhouse gas emissions in alignment with global climate goals.
- Operational Cost Savings: By maintaining stable temperatures and lowering diesel usage, PCM technology helps reduce logistical costs—a critical advantage in regions like Nigeria, where efficient logistics can support both food security and economic resilience.
- Enhanced Efficiency and Flexibility: The dual-chamber trucks support both chilled and frozen applications, offering greater flexibility in transporting a variety of perishable goods without compromising their integrity.
A Step Towards Sustainable Logistics
This initiative, led by the IFC TechEmerge Sustainable Cooling Innovation program, showcases the potential of advanced PCM technology in creating a more resilient and sustainable cold chain in Nigeria. As consumer demand for fresh, quality-controlled food products continues to grow, such innovations are likely to play a key role in the future of temperature-controlled logistics, ensuring that food reaches consumers safely, efficiently, and with minimal environmental impact.
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Naresh Khanna – 10 February 2025
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