Live animal transportation and sustainable supply chain: a systematic literature review

Abstract

Purpose – This article aims to map how the literature treats the procedures adopted in transport logistics for live animals. Design/methodology/approach – To reach our goal, we performed a Systematic Literature Review on live cargo transportation logistics, considering studies published between 2011 and 2021. Findings – The review indicates that the long distances of the routes and the different modes of transport used had considerable influence on the welfare of the animals. Therefore, there is an international trend to reduce long journeys and to assign more relevant information on the geographical origin of products. Research limitations/implications – As limitations of this study, the sample analyzed in the Google Scholar database was small. More studies have been expected for the development of analyses and discussions on the current topic. Practical implications – Efficient and sustainable management can lead to higher financial and non-financial gains for supply chain members and compliance with standards for the appropriate treatment of animals, guaranteeing their well-being and providing superior product quality. Social implications – Live cargo transportation represents an important activity in several food supply chains, and its management may contribute to supply chain sustainability. Originality/value – The findings expand the knowledge available on live animals logistics, care regarding the management of each species, difficulties, barriers, and positive aspects of transport. Sustainability is another theme rarely mentioned in the studies analyzed, thus presenting an important area for future studies regarding sustainable management of the supply chain in transporting this type of load.