___________________________________________________________________________________________________ Sustainability
underutilization due to inadequate or inconsistent training . This lack of training can be extraordinarily challenging to provide for a workforce whose turnover rates are among the top industries and continuing to rise , hovering at about 85 percent for part-time hourly store employees . Unable to keep pace with staff turnover , coupled with the pace of technology updates and releases , retailers are not optimizing their investment in technology meant to automate various points within the supply chain .
For example , we see increasing interest in and potential applications for robotics in distribution and inventory management , but these devices are still reliant upon human operators whose training is often one and done . Programmatic , ongoing training is key to ensuring staff are equipped to leverage technology to its full potential and benefit .
Strength in numbers
Indirect , or Scope 3 emissions , include those generated across the value chain by suppliers who contribute to the production and transportation of products . These emissions account for 90 percent of retailers ’ greenhouse gas emissions according to the National Retail Federation yet are difficult to track due to lack of data .
While the SEC has not yet included Scope 3 reporting as part of its climate disclosure rules , California recently became the first state to pass legislation requiring companies to report Scope 3 emissions . Being able to quantify the impact of partners and suppliers up and down the supply chain not only prepares retailers to meet growing regulatory requirements around reporting carbon emissions , but provides insight into how prevention , monitoring and training can further support a sustainable supply chain .
Clearly , many opportunities exist to advance sustainability and improve operational efficiency throughout the retail supply chain . From ensuring optimal implementation through design and planning at the outset , to minimizing the need for human intervention throughout the product lifecycle via remote resolution , to taking a programmatic approach to ongoing training for heightened adoption , retailers can minimize their environmental impact while maximizing their success . ■
For a list of the sources used in this article , please contact the editor .
Jim Kirby www . ricoh-usa . com / en
Jim Kirby is Vice President Service Advantage at Ricoh North America . Ricoh is a leading provider of integrated digital services and print and imaging solutions designed to support digital transformation of workplaces , workspaces and optimize business performance . Headquartered in Tokyo , Ricoh ’ s global operation reaches customers in approximately 200 countries and regions , supported by cultivated knowledge , technologies , and organizational capabilities nurtured over its 85-year history .
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