Data-Driven Cold Chains: Enhancing Efficiency, Reducing Waste, and Meeting Sustainability Goals

Send me a message In this episode of the *Sustainable Supply Chain* podcast, I sit down with Karl McDermott, Chief SaaS Officer at DeltaTrak, to dive deep into the complex world of cold chain logistics and explore how data is transforming this critical industry. With 35 years under their belt, DeltaTrak has moved from paper-based temperature monitoring to real-time data, unlocking insights that are reshaping how fresh and frozen goods travel across the globe.  Karl unpacks the evolution of temperature tracking tech – from USB loggers to advanced real-time monitoring. These innovations enable better control over temperature-sensitive products, reduce waste, and improve food quality. We also discuss the impact of climate change on the cold chain and how rising global temperatures place added pressure on logistics. An intriguing point Karl brings up is the industry’s shift from traditional temperature standards (like -18°C) to more energy-efficient options, as well as the integration of real-time data to predict shelf life, calculate carbon emissions, and enable new insurance and financing models. Plus, with regulations like FISMA 204 in the US and sustainability demands in the EU, there’s no doubt compliance is driving change, but DeltaTrak is turning that compliance into competitive advantage. If you"re interested in the intersection of technology, sustainability, and supply chain management, this episode is packed with insights. Join us as we unpack the future of cold chain with a seasoned industry leader. Elevate your brand with the ‘Sustainable Supply Chain’ podcast, the voice of supply chain sustainability. Last year, this podcast's episodes were downloaded over 113,000 times by senior supply chain executives around the world. Become a sponsor. Lead the conversation. Contact me for sponsorship opportunities and turn downloads into dialogues. Act today. Influence the future. Rumi.ai All-in-one meeting tool with real-time transcription & searchable Meeting Memory™ Support the show Podcast supporters I"d like to sincerely thank this podcast"s generous supporters: Lorcan Sheehan Olivier Brusle Alicia Farag Kieran Ognev And remember you too can Support the Podcast - it is really easy and hugely important as it will enable me to continue to create more excellent episodes like this one. Podcast Sponsorship Opportunities: If you/your organisation is interested in sponsoring this podcast - I have several options available. Let"s talk! Finally If you have any comments/suggestions or questions for the podcast - feel free to just send me a direct message on LinkedIn, or send me a text message using this link. If you liked this show, please don"t forget to rate and/or review it. It makes a big difference to help new people discover it. Thanks for listening.