Sustainability is a complex topic that goes beyond mere production figures—especially when considering CO₂ emissions, transport routes, working conditions, and potential chemical contamination. In this blog post, we analyze in detail the differences between production in Asia and Europe, examine the entire transport chain, and question whether a product manufactured in Asia that is shipped in large quantities by container to Europe can actually be more sustainable than a product produced in Germany and transported locally. We examine, among other things, the case of a baby carrier, without mentioning specific brand names, and compare it with a cloth fabric woven in Germany.
1. CO₂ balance in production
Production in Asia
- Economies of scale: Many Asian production facilities produce high volumes, which, when facilities are optimally utilized, can often lead to lower CO₂ emissions per unit produced. This is due to efficiency advantages and often lower energy costs.
- Energy sources: However, the energy balance in many Asian countries is still heavily influenced by fossil fuels. This can increase the carbon footprint despite efficient manufacturing technologies.
- Working conditions and social aspects: Some manufacturers boast about sustainability-related aspects such as fair working conditions. However, comparative studies show that production facilities in Europe—for example, in Germany or neighboring countries like the Czech Republic—often have stricter regulations regarding working conditions and pay. These social parameters are increasingly being incorporated into sustainability assessments.
- Be careful with sustainability claims: Companies that produce in Asia must be very careful when claiming to produce the most sustainable products. In addition to the pure production balance, it is essential to also consider the complex transport routes within the country of manufacture.
Production in Europe
- Strict environmental regulations: High standards apply in Europe regarding environmental protection and occupational health and safety. This often leads to higher direct energy consumption per unit due to the use of cutting-edge, yet energy-intensive, technologies. At the same time, the use of renewable energy in many companies ensures an overall better carbon footprint.
- Regional value creation: Production in Europe significantly reduces transport costs. Shorter transport routes mean lower transport emissions and thus a smaller ecological footprint.
- Transparency and traceability: Local production chains allow for better control and traceability of the entire supply chain. This not only facilitates compliance with high social standards but also reduces the risk of hidden emissions and environmental impacts.
2. Transport routes and their sustainability impacts
Shipping by container from Asia
- Transport by ship: The majority of transport takes place by ship, which—at full capacity—can be relatively energy-efficient. Modern container ships carry enormous volumes, so CO₂ emissions per product remain comparatively low.
- Long domestic transport in the country of manufacture: However, production facilities are often located far from the nearest export ports. This means that, in addition to shipping, long domestic transport is required, which increases the carbon footprint.
- Intermediate storage and transshipment: Maritime transport is followed by transshipment in European ports. Additional emissions arise from inner-city transport (trucks, trains, or port cranes).
- Transport distances within Europe: After import, land-based transport often takes place, which causes different levels of emissions depending on the distance.
Regional transport in Europe
- Shorter transport routes: Products manufactured in Germany or neighboring countries usually only need to be transported over shorter distances—for example, from the production site to the point of distribution. This significantly reduces overall transport emissions.
- Lower logistics costs: Regional production allows for more flexible logistics and shorter delivery times, which also contributes to the reduction of empty runs and unnecessary transport routes.
3. Chemical treatment of containers and their effects
Background of container treatment
- Fumigation for pest control: Containers transported internationally are often chemically treated to prevent the introduction of invasive species and pests. This involves the use of substances such as methyl bromide or alternative, less harmful chemicals.
- Potential residues: There is a general concern that chemical residues could migrate to products, especially in poorly ventilated containers. This is especially critical when it comes to consumer products used in direct skin contact, such as baby carriers.
Risk minimization measures
- Standardized treatment procedures: International standards and legal regulations ensure that containers are adequately ventilated after treatment before filling. This reduces the risk of chemical vapors penetrating the product packaging.
- Innovative packaging technologies: Newer packaging solutions can also prevent chemical residues from penetrating products. Sealed packaging and additional barriers provide protection that is especially important for sensitive consumer goods.
- Inspection and certification: Regular inspections and certification of container treatments are essential. This ensures that the chemicals used remain within safe limits and that the treatment does not have a negative impact on product quality.
4. Case study: Sustainability of a baby carrier in European vs. Asian production
Scenario 1: Production in Asia
- Mass production: A baby carrier manufactured in Asia that is produced in large quantities and shipped to Europe by container benefits from economies of scale. Emissions per unit can be low if the container is fully utilized.
- Complex transport routes: In addition to long shipping routes, long inland transport is often necessary in the country of production to bring the goods to the export ports. In European transshipment, the transport routes from the port to the final consumer are further increased.
- Chemical treatment: As mentioned above, container treatments pose a potential risk factor. However, by adhering to all safety standards, this risk can be minimized.
Scenario 2: Production in Germany or neighboring countries
- High social standards: Production in Germany or countries like the Czech Republic offers greater transparency regarding fair working conditions and sustainable production. This is an important aspect that goes beyond the mere carbon footprint.
- Shorter supply chains: The short regional transport distance – usually without costly domestic transport in the country of production – leads to significantly lower emissions compared to transcontinental transport.
- Flexibility and control: Local production facilities allow for more intensive control of the entire supply chain. Potential side effects—such as those caused by transport or the exclusion of chemical residues—can also be better managed.
5. Conclusion and outlook
There's no simple answer to the question of whether a baby carrier made in Asia can be more sustainable than a fabric made in Germany. Several factors need to be considered:
- Efficiency vs. Transparency: While large Asian production volumes can lead to lower CO₂ emissions per unit, European production sites offer greater transparency and stricter social and environmental standards. Companies should therefore be cautious about claiming they produce the most sustainable products if their production takes place in Asia.
- Complexity of transport routes: Of particular importance is the often long transport route within the country of production, followed by transcontinental shipping, transshipment in European ports, and final domestic transport. Each of these steps increases the ecological footprint.
- Chemical risks: The treatment of containers with chemicals represents a potential risk, but this can be largely controlled through standardized procedures and modern packaging techniques.
Overall, it is clear that sustainability in industry represents a complex interplay of production sites, logistics chains, and quality standards. Companies should therefore strive for a holistic approach – from the CO₂ footprint and fair working conditions to potential environmental risks during transport and packaging. This is the only way to achieve sustainable and responsible production in the long term. When choosing a product, customers should find out exactly where the baby carrier is manufactured to truly ensure they are purchasing a sustainable baby carrier. Storchenwiege's German and European production can consistently demonstrate this.
This article aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the complex aspects of sustainability assessment in international supply chains and to stimulate reflection on how different production locations impact the environment, social issues and economic efficiency in the long term.
