Going green in logistics: The case of small and medium-sized enterprises in Poland

Abstract

Aim/purpose – The aim of the paper is to identify the features of ‘green’ small and medium-sized enterprises operating in Poland. Design/methodology/approach – The paper is based on a quantitative approach and a group of 200 small and medium-sized enterprises operating in Poland were examined. The classification tree method was used to analyze the data gathered. Findings – The ‘green’ small and medium-sized enterprises operating in Poland were characterized and their important features were identified, e.g., belonging to the TFL (Transport Forwarding Logistics) sector and a direct relationship with the supply chain leader. In the case of enterprises from the TFL sector, their area of activity is a natural environment for the development of ‘green logistics’ practices. In turn, the supply chain leader usually pushes for specific solutions aimed at achieving the assumed goals, in - cluding environmental goals. Research implications/limitations – The research results enable the identification pro- cess of small and medium-sized enterprises interested in implementing the ‘green logis- tics’ concept and, consequently, their support. Nevertheless, small and medium-sized enterprises operating in Poland were the only examined, thus the research findings can- not be generalized for other countries. However, the paper could be a starting point for comparative analyses on an international scale. Originality/value/contribution – The development of ‘green logistics’ among small and medium-sized enterprises in Poland is still not recognized by researchers. The paper is a valuable addition to this research gap. Keywords: green logistics, SME, classification tree. JEL Classification: L21, M20, Q50.