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Visual Insights into Supply Chain Excellence

Navigating the Logistics Landscape: Visual Insights into Supply Chain Excellence Introduction Photography is essentially a method of documenting actions, truth, memories and emotions. In the ever-evolving domain of logistics and supply chain management, where accuracy, compliance, and safety are of paramount importance, photography emerges as a powerful tool to depict reality and stands as a proof of time. It goes far beyond just capturing moments. The integration of visual documentation along with supply chain activities and movements, offers a new dimension of efficiency and precision, ensuring seamless operations and regulatory compliance. Here, we will delve into the multifaceted role of photographs in enhancing these specific aspects of the logistics ecosystem. Visual Documentation as a Tool to Ensure Accuracy of actions Every physical logistics activity calls for a visual documentation to ensure accuracy of actions. Photographing products serves as a visual documentation which enables accurate classification and valuation, facilitating efficient customs clearance processes. Moreover, images work as evidence of goods’ conditions before and after import or export, ensuring trade compliance and reducing delays. Accurate documentation of goods, packages, and shipments is key to ensure smooth operations. Real-time Tracking and Communication Mobile phones with cameras have empowered logistics professionals to capture real-time images and further have revolutionized how businesses track and communicate. Capturing images of products, packaging process, and delivery activities have helped customers have real-time accurate updates. This has bolstered transparency and has increased customer trust on logistics professionals. Capturing images is seen as tracking product and service life cycle. Route optimization and decision-making processes are now being premised on the visual insights provided by the professionals. For goods have a journey from taking birth to reach its conclusion through consumption in the supply chain – logistics professionals are capturing the stages of products – from arrival at the warehouse to packaging, loading, and final delivery. Images are serving as tangible evidence of the condition of goods, providing an accurate visual record for tracking purposes, verifying deliveries, and addressing discrepancies. Real-time data helps in operational decision making. Whether it’s monitoring cargo loading, unloading, or in-transit conditions, photographs offer stakeholders an accurate portrayal of operations. For visual documentation enhances transparency, accountability, and collaboration among different stakeholders, including shippers, carriers, and customers. Risk Mitigation and Dispute Resolution Movements are indispensable parts of product cycle. During the course of movement of goods, service provider might face disputes and discrepancies regarding the condition of shipments, delivery times, and damages. This is where photographs act as irrefutable proof to substantiate claims and refute false allegations. Surveys are conducted when there is a need to resolve disputes. In such circumstances, photographs serve as clear visual evidences of the state of goods during various stages of the journey. Photography significantly enhances the accuracy of these surveys by providing visual evidence of damages, discrepancies, or operational inefficiencies. Images of damaged goods, inadequate packaging, or subpar warehouse conditions help stakeholders make informed decisions, enabling timely corrective actions and mitigating financial losses. Thus, they can effectively eliminate misunderstandings and expedite dispute resolution, ultimately enhancing customer satisfaction and maintaining business relationships. In another instance, dealing with dangerous goods could be quite demanding. A stringent adherence to safety protocols and regulations are absolutely needed. Photography emerges as a powerful tool towards visual proof of the correct packaging, labelling, and handling of hazardous materials. Images of containers, packaging labels, and safety seals offer indisputable evidence of compliance during inspections, reducing the risk of regulatory violations and ensuring the safety of personnel, facilities, and the environment. Process Optimization: Learning from Visual Data Logistics professionals uses photograph as tool to analyse processes and identify optimization opportunities. Operational inefficiencies can be identified through photographs – capturing images of workflows, warehouse layouts, and equipment arrangements. Photographs help streamline processes, reducing bottlenecks, minimizing errors, and enhancing overall operational efficiency. Conclusion Photographing logistics and supply chain activities has emerged as an indispensable asset that works to preserve trust of customers. Photography has emerged as a comprehensive visual documentation tool, enhancing accuracy, real-time tracking, dispute resolution, and process improvement. Photographing product cycle often serves as a tangible evidence that transcends language barriers and supports informed decision-making, reducing risks and enhancing collaboration across the logistics and supply chain processes. The role of photography in logistics and supply chain is continuously growing to shape the industry’s future success.

What is Plastic Value Chain and why does it call for Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR)?

Trade Compliance

What is Plastic Value Chain and why does it call for Extended Producer’s Responsibility (EPR)? The word Plastic has been derived from the Greek word Plastikos, which means capable of being shaped and molded. It is found everywhere from nearby surrounding areas to the most remote places in the Arctic. Plastic is a versatile and widely used materials possessing extraordinary properties capable of dominating the modern life. It offers convenience and affordability, making them prevalent in various industries, from packaging to electronics. These benefits, however, carries challenges if not used responsibility. Threats that it poses on living forms and environment, are enormously dangerous and capable of ensuring abysmal environmental harm – plastic pollution. Predictions point towards the steady doubling of plastic production in the next 20 years, action to stop plastic pollution is the need of the hour (UNEP 2020). Fig. 1 Plastic Value Chain – from Cradle to Grave. Source Baseline report on plastic waste (UNEP, 24 Feb 2020) “The plastics value chain includes the full range of activities, which are required to bring a plastic product through the different phases of extracting raw materials, production, distribution to consumers, and final disposal after use (Figure 1). While plastic moves from one stage of the chain to the next, it is expected to gain value. Yet the value chain of plastic remains archetypically linear with less than 20%1 of plastics re-entering the value chain and huge amounts of plastics ending up in terrestrial and marine environments each year, exposing both the environment and marine life to existential problems. In addition, the diverse nature of the different plastic products, different uses and treatment routes at the end of its lifecycle increases the complexity of the value chain as well as the number of diverse stakeholders including chemical and plastic manufacturers, consumer goods companies, retailers, waste management companies, and recycling technology companies.” (UNEP, 2020) Plastic Consumption in India United Nation Environmental Program (UNEP) has reported on plastic waste where India has not been accounted for (Annual Report 2019-2020 on implementation of Plastic Waste Management Rules, 2019). Below table 1, is a combined report from information collected from the UNEP and the Annual report submitted by the SPCBs/PCCs. It suggests that India is the fifth highest generator of plastic waste. Table 1 : Plastic Waste Generation in Different Countries Plastic consumption has increased decade by Decade. Annual Report 2919-2020 on implementation of Plastic Waste Management Rules, 2019 suggests India’s Plastic generation is 5th highest in the World (Fig. 1). As per details provided by 35 States/UTs estimated plastic waste generation during the year 2019-20 is approximately 34,69,780 TPA (Fig. 2) Fig. 2 : State/UT wise Plastic waste generation Source: Annual Report 2019-2020 on implementation of Plastic Waste Management Rules, 2019 According to Teri, 2018; 43% of Plastic Waste produced in India is Plastic Packaging Waste. Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) is an environmental policy approach where a producer’s responsibility, physical and/ or financial, for a product is shifted or to the post-consumer stage of a product’s life cycle. This shifts responsibility upstream towards the producer and away from municipalities. The Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, Government of India, in its fourth Amendment to the Plastic Waste Management Rules, dated February 16, 2022, notified ‘Guidelines on Extended Producer Responsibility for Plastic Packaging’ in Schedule II of the Rules. As per the notified Guidelines, Producers, Importers and Brand Owners (PIBOs) are required to ensure the processing of plastic waste generated due to plastic packaging of products introduced by them in the market. EPR Timeline in India Source: https://eprplastic.cpcb.gov.in/epr-lms/courses/introduction-to-epr-portal/lesson/epr-guidelines/ Types of plastics covered under EPR for plastic packaging Every producer, importer and brand owner has to comply with the EPR Target, Minimum Level for Recycling, End of life disposal and Obligation for Use of Recycled Content In addition to that, brand owners must adhere to a Minimum Level for Reuse. *The target calculations are explained in advanced courses. The specific compliances and regulations related to EPR can vary from country to country or even within different regions of a country. Some regions may have well-established EPR laws, while others may still be in the process of developing and implementing such policies. Stakeholders must be aware of the relevant laws and guidelines in their respective regions and actively participate in EPR programs to ensure effective waste management and environmental protection.

What are the challenges faced by Art Logistics Professionals while navigating the world of art?

shipping, Trade Compliance

What are the challenges faced by Art Logistics Professionals while Navigating the World of Art? Artwork represents emotions of its makers or owners. Wherever emotions are attached, criticality levels in handling go up – expectation rises. The role of logistician essentially is to manage logistics and supply chain processes seamlessly. In the case of art logistics such needs increases further. In this regard, Art logistics professionals are deemed to face some key challenges which are as follows: Fragility and Sensitivity of Artworks: Artworks are often delicate and sensitive to environmental conditions. They can be easily damaged by vibrations, temperature fluctuations, humidity, and exposure to light. Transporting and storing artworks require specialized techniques and equipment to minimize the risk of damage. Size and Weight Considerations: Artworks vary shapes, sizes and weights – ranging from small sculptures to large installations. Handling and transporting oversized and heavy artworks require careful planning, specialized equipment, and skilled personnel to ensure their safe movement without causing damage to the artworks or risking injury to the handlers. Security and Theft Prevention: It has been seen that most artworks are highly valued. This makes them attractive assets prone to theft. Ensuring the security of artworks during transportation and storage is crucial. Robust security measures, such as 24/7 surveillance, secure transportation vehicles, GPS tracking systems, and strict access control protocols, to protect the artworks from theft or unauthorized access are imperative. Customs and Regulatory Compliance: International art shipments are subject to international trade compliances. Each country has its own set of import/export regulations, documentation requirements, and cultural property laws. Art logistics providers must have a deep understanding of these regulations and ensure proper documentation and compliance to avoid delays, fines, or confiscation of artworks at customs. Logisticians should work as knowledge partners while handling customs regulations. Proper compliance oriented documentation helps to ensure the artworks’ integrity and assists in resolving any disputes or claims that may arise during transportation or storage. Insurance and Risk Management: Valuable assets must be covered from risk of loss or damage during transportation and storage. Inattentive attitude towards protection could hurt emotions of owners of the artworks. Art logistics companies must work closely with clients to assess the value of the artworks and provide appropriate insurance coverage. Managing the risk of potential damage, theft, or loss requires comprehensive insurance policies and risk mitigation strategies. Coordination, Timeliness & Tracking: Coordinating the logistics of multiple artworks, especially for large-scale exhibitions or art fairs, can be challenging. Ensuring timely pickup, transport, and delivery of artworks to various locations demands efficient planning, coordination with shipping partners, and careful scheduling to meet exhibition or event deadlines. Further, proper tracking of artworks throughout the logistics process is vital for accountability and provenance. Handling of Special Artistic Mediums: Artworks can come in various mediums, including paintings, sculptures, ceramics, glass, installations, and multimedia pieces. Each medium has specific handling requirements. For example, fragile glass artworks may require specialized crating and careful handling to prevent breakage. Handling diverse artistic mediums requires expertise and knowledge of appropriate techniques and materials. Addressing these challenges requires a combination of expertise, experience, specialized equipment, and strong partnerships within the art logistics industry. By understanding and effectively overcoming these challenges, art logistics providers can ensure the safe and secure transportation and storage of artworks for collectors, museums, galleries, and artists around the world.

What are the compliance needed to be met for exporting antiquities from India?

Trade Compliance

What are the compliance needed to be met for exporting antiquities from India? Antiques are collectable objects viz. piece of furniture, any coin, sculpture, painting, literature, epigraph, any object or thing detached from a building or cave or any other work of art that is having a high value because of its age and quality. The Antiquities and Art Treasures Act, 1972 defines “art treasure” as “any human work of art, not being an antiquity, declared by the Central Government [of India] by notification in the Official Gazette, to be an art treasure for the purposes of this Act having regard to its artistic or aesthetic value”, provided “that no declaration under this clause shall be made in respect of any such work of art so long as the author thereof is alive”. Unscrupulous transactions are very common to such objects of interests by several buyers. To regulate such illegal trade, prevent smuggling of, fraudulent dealings in antiquities, to provide compulsory acquisition of antiquities and art treasures for preservation in public places and to provide for certain other matters connected therewith or incidental or ancillary thereto, different countries have set of regulatory frameworks to control and prevent such trade. Likewise, Government of India has its own set of legal compliances in place – the Antiquities and Art Treasures Act, 1972 (AAT Act) and its subsequent amendments. Important facts from Antiquities and Art Treasures Act, 1972 Section 3 of the AAT Act suggest that to export of antiquities and art treasures are considered unlawful for any person, other than the Central Government or any authority or agency authorized by the Central Government in this behalf. Whenever the Central Government or any authority or agency intends to export any antiquity or art treasure, it has to be made only under and in accordance with the terms and conditions of a permit issued for the purpose by such authority as may be prescribed. Any person desiring to carry on, himself or by any other person on his behalf, the business of selling or offering to sell antiquities has to make an application to obtain a license. Every individual is required to make an application to the registering officer to register an antiquity and needs to obtain a certificate of registration. If there is a transfer of ownership, the registering office has to be informed. It is pertinent to determine whether or not an article, etc., is an antiquity or art treasure or not. If any question arises whether any article, object or thing or manuscript, record or other document is or is not an antiquity or is or is not an art treasure for the purposes of this Act, it shall be referred to the Director General, Archaeological Survey of India, or to an officer not below the rank of a Director in the Archaeological Survey of India authorized by the Director General, Archaeological Survey of India and the decision of the Director General, Archaeological Survey of India or such officer, as the case may be, on such question shall be final. It is crucial to exercise due diligence when dealing with antiquities to ensure compliance with applicable laws and regulations. Exporting antiquities from India is no exception and is subject to strict compliances mentioned in AAT Act 1972 & Customs Act, 1962. This includes verifying the authenticity, legality, and provenance of the antiquities, as well as conducting proper research and documentation. Antiquities and art treasures being identifier of a country’s cultural richness, it becomes moral and legal obligations for country’s and individuals to protect it from unscrupulous trade. Any such illegal export is considered as punishable offence.

Why do you need to label shipping containers carrying Dangerous Goods?

Dangerous Goods

Why do you need to label shipping containers carrying Dangerous Goods? Dangerous Good (also known DG or hazardous material or HAZMAT) is any substance or material capable of posing an unreasonable risk to health, safety, and property when transported in commerce. There are various reasons why proper Labelling of shipping containers are essential for carrying Dangerous Goods (DG). They are as follows: Safety: To keep ocean transportation safe and economical, containers carrying DG, must be labelled. DG such as flammable liquids, corrosive substances, explosives, radioactive materials, or toxic chemicals needs to be carefully handled when carried with other types of cargo. Any lacuna in the process have high chance of creating an on-water disaster. In order to avoid such undesired horrible circumstances, proper labelling is an imperative to ensure the safe movements of goods. Labelling ensures safety of the marine logistics and thus reduce risks of a supply chain. Emergency response: In the event of an accident, fire, or spillage involving DG, labelling plays a crucial role. The signage helps responding to an emergency. The labels on the shipping containers provide valuable information to emergency personnel, allowing them to quickly identify the type of dangerous goods involved and take appropriate measures to manage and prevent from a disaster to happen. Regulatory compliance: Regulations are for public and environmental safety. Regulatory bodies like International Maritime Organisation (IMO) comes up with regulatory framework from time to time in order to prevent environmental and public hazards. International trade is subject to compliances and mandates of such international organisations. Proper labelling is a legal requirement to comply with these regulations. It helps authorities, port officials, and inspectors easily identify and verify that the containers are carrying the appropriate DG and that they meet the necessary packaging, handling, and transportation requirements. Transportation efficiency: Labelling shipping containers carrying DG aids in the efficient logistics and supply chain processes. By clearly indicating the nature of the cargo, it allows shipping companies, freight forwarders, and port operators to segregate, store, and handle dangerous goods appropriately. This helps prevent cross-contamination, ensures proper storage conditions, and facilitates the smooth flow of goods through the transportation network. In summary, labelling shipping containers carrying DG is a critical practice that enhances safety, enables effective emergency response, ensures regulatory compliance, and promotes efficient transportation and logistics management.

Why it is essential photographing shipping containers having DG labels on them?

Dangerous Goods

Why it is essential photographing shipping containers having DG labels on them? Not only labelling of shipping containers carrying HAZMAT is important, moreover, we must not forget to take photographs of shipping containers having DG labels on them. There are several reasons in its justification. Some of them are as follows: Proof of Compliance: Images provide visual evidence of the containers’ proper labelling, capturing important details such as the labels, placards, and markings on the containers. For the purpose of regulatory compliance, auditing purposes, and legal requirements, as and when may be required, such evidences can be produced to the right authority as a proof towards adherence of compliance. In case of any disputes, accidents, or incidents during transportation, these images can serve as crucial evidence to demonstrate that the containers were appropriately labelled and compliant with regulations. Incident Investigation: images of properly labelled shipping container carrying DG proves to be most useful in times of accidents and disasters. They provide visual documentation of the containers’ condition before the incident has occurred, helping investigators understand the circumstances and potential causes. Comparing pre-incident images with post-incident images can provide valuable insights into any labelling damage, tampering, or issues that may have contributed to the incident. Verification: Images allow for easy verification of the labels and markings on the containers. As a visual reference to compare against the required labelling standards, ensuring that the containers meet the necessary regulatory and safety requirements. Label verifications helps to identify any potential errors, inaccuracies, or missing information, further allowing to take corrective measures as may be required while transporting HAZMAT or addressing any non-compliance issues. Training and Education: Images can work as a part of training material for corporates that deal in HAZMAT. Such visual aids to educate employees, shipping personnel, and other stakeholders enrich the training material and helps the stakeholders in imparting and absorbing the knowledge. Communication and Awareness: Images of properly labelled containers can be shared with relevant parties, including shipping companies, logistics providers, port operators, and regulatory authorities to visually convey the degree of hazards, and to alert agents while the DG are handled. In the conclusion, capturing images of properly labelled shipping containers carrying DG cargo serves a vital role in ensuring compliance, enhancing safety, and promoting responsible handling and transportation of dangerous goods.

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