Road congestion has huge economic implications and is costing logistics companies a lot of money. In Europe it is estimated at one percent of the annual gross domestic product. Acknowledging the problems, the EU has recently unveiled plans for a common transport policy, including some 30 measures in relation to logistics. So what action should be taken to improve the situation in the near future? Building road capacity does not seem to be the answer. Is integration of warehousing, transportation and distribution into the so-called one-stop-shopping service a solution? Or should the focus perhaps shift to a multi-modal approach? Could more transport by rail and water solve (part of) the problem? And how is transportation and distribution impacted by the discussion about food miles - the term used for the distance food travels between production and end-user?

Joe Grealy of Transfrigoroute International and Koen Overtoom of the Port of Amsterdam will discuss all this at the 11^th European Cold Chain Education Program & Trade Show in Amsterdam on February 25-26, 2008. For more information about the program, speakers, topics, trade show, registration and the customized facility visits for overseas members, click here.

This is an official call for topics for the Focus Sessions for the 2008 Annual IARW-WFLO-IRTA Convention in April.  If you or someone you know has a recommendation or submission, please email a brief abstract on the topic and presenter(s) to Bobby Tucker at btucker@gcca.org by December 5, 2007.  We are looking forward to a great convention!

On November 19, 2007, The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) announced enrollment in the Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC) program will begin at 10 more ports before the end of the month. Ultimately, the program will vet more than 1 million workers through the rest of 2007 and 2008. See full release.

The Institute: 2008 Faculty Walk the Walk

Space reservations for the 2008 Global Cold Chain Directory must be received by December 12, 2007. Don't miss the opportunity to be a part of this essential industry resource. Why advertise? Because the Directory is used year-round by it's recipients so your one ad has greater potential to impact your customers. Over 5,000 industry decision-makers can't be wrong. To inquire about advertising, call Victoria Lonergan at +1 703 897 4414. More information.

Logistics is a key expenditure for the fresh produce business, and as companies look at ways to reduce costs and do their bit for the environment, seafreight has recovered some of its lost popularity. See full story from freshinfo.