Thus, globalization, technology, lean and agile techniques and a 'one-way flow' haveall contributed to increased standards of living around the world, including indeveloping nations who benefit from better economic activity.ㆍ However, parallel increases in logistical and supply chain activities related to thisprosperity have been detrimental to the natural environment in terms of increasedresource use, waste and pollution as well as inefficient movement and storage ofgoods.ㆍ The following box provides an example of how this detriment could be addressedusing a technological solution for retail fulfilment."Empowering consumers in the last mile' for home deliveries