Showing papers on "Green logistics published in 2017"

Does national scale economic and environmental indicators spur logistics performance? Evidence from UK

Abstract: The aim of this study is to examine the association between national economic and environmental indicators with green logistics performance in a time series data of UK since 1981 to 2016. The research used autoregressive distributed lag method to understand the long-run and short-run relationships of national scale economic (foreign direct investment (FDI) inflows, per capita income) and environmental indicators (total greenhouse gases, fossil fuel, and renewable energy) on green logistics. In the short run, the research findings indicate that the green logistics and renewable energy have positive relationship, while fossil fuel is negatively correlated with green logistics operations. On the other hand, in the long run, the results show that FDI inflows, renewable energy sources, and per capita income have statistically significant and positive association with green logistics activities, while foreign investments attracted by environmental friendly policies and practices adopted in global logistics operations, which not only increase the environmental sustainability but also enhance economic activities with greater export opportunities in the region.

A Multicriteria Analysis for the Green VRP: A Case Discussion for the Distribution Problem of a Spanish Retailer

Abstract: This research presents the group of green vehicle routing problems with environmental costs translated into money versus production of noise, pollution and fuel consumption This research is focused on multi-objective green logistics optimization Optimality criteria are environmental costs: minimization of amount of money paid as externality cost for noise, pollution and costs of fuel versus minimization of noise, pollution and fuel consumption themselves Some mixed integer programming formulations of multi-criteria vehicle routing problems have been considered Mathematical models were formulated under assumption of existence of asymmetric distance-based costs and use of homogeneous fleet The exact solution methods are applied for finding optimal solutions The software used to solve these models is the CPLEX solver with AMPL programming language The researchers were able to use real data from a Spanish company of groceries Problems deal with green logistics for routes crossing the Spanish regions of Navarre, Basque Country and La Rioja Analyses of obtained results could help logistics managers to lead the initiative in area of green logistics by saving money paid for environmental costs as well as direct cost of fuel and minimization of pollution and noise

Multi-Criteria Optimization for Fleet Size with Environmental Aspects

Abstract: This research concerns multi-criteria vehicle routing problems. Mathematical models are formulated with mixed-integer programming. We consider maximization of capacity of truck vs. minimization of utilization of fuel, carbon emission and production of noise. The problems deal with green logistics for routes crossing the Western Pyrenees in Navarre, Basque Country and La Rioja, Spain. We consider heterogeneous fleet of trucks. Different types of trucks have not only different capacities, but also require different amounts of fuel for operations. Consequently, the amount of carbon emission and noise vary as well. Companies planning delivery routes must consider the trade-off between the financial and environmental aspects of transportation. Efficiency of delivery routes is impacted by truck size and the possibility of dividing long delivery routes into smaller ones. The results of computational experiments modeled after real data from a Spanish food distribution company are reported. Computational results based on formulated optimization models show some balance between fleet size, truck types, utilization of fuel, carbon emission and production of noise. As a result, the company could consider a mixture of trucks sizes and divided routes for smaller trucks. Analyses of obtained results could help logistics managers lead the initiative in environmental conservation by saving fuel and consequently minimizing pollution.

The impact of green supply chain management in small to medium enterprises: Cross-sectional evidence

Abstract: Background: South Africa has a high rate of small to medium enterprises (SMEs) failure, especially in the manufacturing sector. The operational challenges confronting manufacturing SMEs are acknowledged by the Global Competitiveness Index that ranked South African SMEs as one of the lowest in emerging economies. Objectives: The aim of this study is to examine the association between green supply chain management (GSCM) practices, environmental collaboration and financial performance in SMEs. Method: The study is quantitative in nature and involves a convenient sample of 312 SMEs based in Gauteng Province, South Africa. Data analyses follow a two-step process involving a confirmatory factor analysis to test the psychometric properties of the measurement scale and Structural Equation Modelling to test the proposed hypotheses. Results: The study shows that three GSCM practices, namely, green procurement, green logistics and green manufacturing in SMEs exert a positive effect on environmental collaboration, with green manufacturing exerting a higher effect than the other two constructs. In turn, higher levels of environmental collaboration inspired higher levels of SME financial performance. Conclusion: The study advances that SMEs can succeed financially through the influence of enhanced environmental collaboration, which emanates, in part, from the adoption and implementation of GSCM practices.

Green Supply Chain Management : A Concise Introduction

Abstract: 1. Basic Concepts of Green Supply Chain Management 2. Eco-Design and Supplier Relationships 3. Green Procurement and Purchasing 4. Green Supplier Development and Collaboration 5. Green Logistics and Transportation 6. Closing the Loop - Reverse Logistics and a Circular Economy 7. Global and Local Relationships 8. Green Multi-tier Supplier Management

An Integrated Approach to Evaluating and Selecting Green Logistics Providers for Sustainable Development

Abstract: Balancing economic development with environmental protection has become a critical concern worldwide. However, along with the highly competitively global marketplace, economic factors are known to directly affect an enterprise’s development and its future business. Therefore, selecting the right partner for sustainable collaboration that will lead to improved business performance and reduce carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions is a significant problem for many enterprises. In addition, investigating the economic impact of companies that are charged to protect the environment is becoming increasingly problematic. Thus, the purpose of this paper is to evaluate the comparative efficiencies of 16 Green Logistics Providers (GLPs) in the USA from 2012 to 2015, and the projected four-year period of 2016–2019, by means of an integrated approach that combines the grey forecasting model GM (1,1) and Data Envelopment Analysis (DEA). The results show that there are two GLPs, Knight Transportation and the Union Pacific Corporation, that possess a higher efficiency level and are achieving positive technical change. However, this study also determined that Hyster-Yale Materials Handling and CSX Corporation did not reach an acceptable efficiency score; therefore, they should improve technical efficiency to mitigate environmental concerns. This completely integrative methodology has the potential to provide the best decision-making strategies for finding suitable collaborative partners who are able to meet the sustainability requirements in most economic and environmental areas.

Green Logistics: Element of the Sustainable Development Concept. Part 1

Abstract: DOI 10.17818/NM/2017/3.7 UDK 656:502 502:504 Review / Pregledni rad Paper accepted / Rukopis primljen: 28. 8. 2017. Aleksandr Rakhmangulov Department of Logistics and Transportation Systems Management Nosov Magnitogorsk State Technical University e-mail: ran@magtu.ru Aleksander Sladkowski Silesian University of Technology Poland e-mail: aleksander.sladkowski@polsl.pl Nikita Osintsev Department of Logistics and Transportation Systems Management Nosov Magnitogorsk State Technical University e-mail: osintsev@magtu.ru

Green logistics in Russia : the phenomenon of progress, economic and environmental security

Abstract: 1. Introduction Following the desire to use the environment wisely and effectively, so as to ensure the stability of consumption for future generations, it is currently necessary to create all the conditions for its preservation and protection. Exploring the conceptual organization and functional richness of modern logistics systems, it is necessary to highlight their general involvement and broad scope of trade and transport arteries as well as socio-economic mechanisms in global and domestic format. Indeed, logistics is involved in virtually all the phases of the creation and distribution of demand in the markets for goods and services, forming the basis of their life cycle and economic value. Thus, no economic doctrine is capable of such a deep insight into the production and distribution processes as logistics, and therefore environmental safety mechanisms also need to be implemented using green logistics. Timing of changes in the implementation of science-based theoretical and applied tools in green logistics must happen without delay, which is determined by both external and internal motives of the Russian economy. A significant share of the costs of production and circulation is occupied by the logistical costs of bringing the product to the final consumer. Therefore, logistics--as a science becomes particularly important in the current conditions, while focusing on import substitution of national products. 2. Theoretical, Informational, Empirical, and Methodological Grounds of the Research Despite the fact that logistics is widespread amongst Russian business, not all companies understand the priorities of the management of logistics and the importance of development of information and communication supply chain management technology, comprehensive services, strategic development, so in the difficult period of another peak of the crisis, trade and economic constraints, sanctions and political actions that have serious economic background, the Russian market of logistics services is transforms, feeling not only innovative trends, but destabilizing effects as well (Frank et al., 2016; Epifanova et al., 2015; Ryzhkova and Prosvirkin, 2015; Dasanayaka and Sardana, 2015; Sibirskaya et al., 2015). Annually there is 350 million tons of carbon dioxide released into the atmosphere from the vehicles used in logistics, more than 50 million tons of various hydrocarbons and 150 million tons of sulfur oxide. In the atmosphere, carbone dioxide accumulats, decreasing the oxygen levels. Emissions fall as residue on the plants and soil, are inhaled by people, and are consumed with food. Transport operating on the territory of the Russian Federation, burns approximately 110-115 million tons of fuel and 1.2-1.5 million tons of lubricant annually. Other pollutants include crankcase gases, battery acid, lubricants and coolants, as well as other operational materials [1]. The theoretical and methodological basis of logistics is the general theory of systems and control theory (cybernetics), the fundamental principles and methods of system analysis, some elements of operations research, different sections of systems engineering and systemology, which together with a variety of conceptual and applied aspects of the theoretical and practical logistics form a definite and conceptual current device, capable after certain adaptations to specific conditions, to be used effectively in various fields and areas of production and commercial activities [2]. This is why logistics mechanisms, used to ensure strategic support to the environmental component can be involved at in the organizational functional management of socio-economic systems most effectively. A good starting point is to use it as marketing moves of local solutions or projects with "green tint"--for instance, route optimization to reduce the mileage, the use of more environmentally friendly equipment, use of solar energy for technological needs, etc. …

Sustainable Logistics Network Modeling for Enterprise Supply Chain

Abstract: With the expansion of the study about green logistics, sustainable supply chain management (SSCM) has appeared as a new concept in current economic circumstance. This paper studies the sustainability optimization of enterprise logistics network from a strategic perspective and proposes a multiobjective sustainable logistics optimization model considering three dimensions of sustainability: economy, environment, and society. In this model, the environment factor was measured with a Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) method based on Chinese Life Cycle Database (CLCD), while for social factors, Sustainability Reporting Guidelines (GRI) are utilized to quantify the social performance. Moreover, the model was solved with an adapted version of the -constraint method named augment constraint algorithm (AUGMENCON) through GAMS software. The numerical experiment results of a computer manufacturer supply chain show that the proposed model is able to integrate all dimensions of sustainability and simultaneously prove the capability of AUGMENCON in providing a set of trade-off solutions for the decision makers to make different decisions under different environment and social requirements.

Examination of environmentally friendly "green" logistics behavior of managers in the pharmaceutical sector using the Theory of Planned Behavior.

Abstract: Background Logistics activities play a prominent role in enabling manufacturers, distribution channels, and pharmacies to work in harmony. Nowadays these activities have become increasingly striking in the pharmaceutical industry and seen as a development area for this sector. Additionally, green practices are beginning to be more attracting particularly in decreasing costs and increasing image of pharmaceutical companies. Objective The main objective of this study was modeling green logistics (GL) behavior of the managers in the pharmaceutical sector in the theory of planned behavior (TPB) frame via structural equation modeling (SEM). Methods A measurement tool was developed according to TPB. Exploratory factor analysis was conducted to determine subfactors of GL behavior. In the second step, confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) was conducted for confirming whether there is a relationship between the observed variables and their underlying latent constructs. Finally, structural equation model was conducted to specify the relationships between latent variables. Results In the proposed green logistics behavior (GLB) model, the positive effect of environmental attitude towards GL, perceived behavioral control related GL, and subjective norm about GL on intention towards GL were found statistically significant. Nevertheless, the effect of attitude towards costs of GL on intention towards GL was not found statistically significant. Intention towards GL has been found to have a positive statistically significant effect on the GL behavior. Conclusions Based on the results of this study, it is possible to say that TPB is an appropriate theory for modeling green logistics behavior of managers. This model can be seen as a guide to the companies in the pharmaceutical sector to participate in green logistics.

Green logistics solutions

Abstract: Today, climate change is the greatest challenge for future generations. In particular, logistics is perceived as a key sector to contribute to sustainable development meeting the future generations’ needs in terms of low greenhouse gas emissions in a socially and economically responsible way. Green logistics involves all attempts to reduce the ecological impact of peoples’ mobility, traffic systems and of transport in regional and global supply chains including the reverse flow of products and materials. The primary objective of this special issue is to reflect the sustainable development of logistics from various perspectives preferably in an integrated and holistic approach and to examine research issues concerned with quantitative analysis and decision support for supply network design, freight transport and logistics infrastructure. For this special issue eight papers from 36 submissions have been selected for publication after a thorough peer-review according to the standards of the FSM journal.

Green logistics for sustainability

Abstract: Sustainability is emerging as a salient concept with increasing importance. Since logistics is a core element in enterprise activities, sustainability is becoming a strategic issue for the logistics sector. Sustainability of enterprises is only possible if they are sustainable in terms of their natural, economic and social dimensions. In fact, environmental impacts of logistic practices are now included in “Logistic Performance Index” (LPI) developed by World Bank. Concept of sustainability and logistics is discussed in this study focusing on environmental, economic and social dimensions of sustainable logistics. http://dx.doi.org/10.17130/ijmeb.2017331327

Green Logistics in the Context of Sustainable Development in Small and Medium Enterprises

Abstract: Forestry and wood-processing industry are sectors based on renewable ecological natural resources of wood raw material. Wood mass processing should be based on sustainable development, which involves the economic and social development based on environment preservation. Green logistics, which leads to change in creating the product value, characterizes different possibilities to measure and minimize the ecological impact of logistics activities and puts emphasis on sustainable ecological orientation, is closely related to sustainable development. The aim of this article is to investigate the issue of green logistics of forestry and wood processing in small and medium enterprises in Slovakia. To reach this goal, an empirical research was carried out, the objective of which was to determine the level of understanding, as well as the implementation of green logistics activities, and to identify its potential for future implementation in small and medium enterprises in selected branches. The research has revealed that as many as 28.8 % of enterprises claim not to have had any experience with green logistics within their enterprise. The greatest barrier for the implementation of green logistics appears to be the high input costs, which was confi rmed by 62 % of the enterprises. On the basis of the research results, a model of implementation of green logistics concept in Slovak small and medium forestry and wood-processing enterprises has been proposed, as an element of sustainable development.

Shippers’ opportunities to increase load factor: managing imbalances between required and available capacity

Abstract: Improving load factor is relevant for shippers due to its potential in reducing both transport costs and emissions. The purpose is to structure shippers’ opportunities to increase load factor according to required and available capacity. A framework is developed from literature, and in-depth understanding is provided by three cases, with data mainly collected through semi-structured interviews. Shippers’ opportunities to increase load factor are structured per decreasing, increasing, or reallocating required or available capacity. Required capacity can be changed by adjusting number of items, item characteristics, and how items are combined. Available capacity can be changed by adjusting number and type of units. Changes that improved load factor are described in detail for each case. Load factor is calculated for the packaging and shipping levels. An approach that logistics managers can apply to identify opportunities relevant to their situations is presented. Findings are relevant to researchers within transport efficiency and green logistics.

Green Supply Chain, Logistics, and Transportation

Abstract: This chapter presents the concepts of green supply chain network, green supply chain management, and green logistics. Increasing environmental concerns requires companies to become more responsive to products that either has been returned or that are at the end of their useful lives. Organization’s responsiveness and their reactions toward life cycles of products are critical to achieve sustained success once fluctuations are recurrent and the business environments are turbulent. Life cycles are getting shorter, and effective managing can save large amounts of cash as many materials can be extracted, reused, and redistributed. Alongside this context, this chapter focuses on a general overview toward closed-loop supply chains and offers a generalized optimization model. In addition, incentive approaches for an optimal recovery plan in a closed-loop supply chain are discussed in this chapter.

Green Logistics in Slovak Small and Medium Wood-Processing Enterprises

Abstract: Current approaches in logistics are focused on sustainable development of enterprises and society. Small and medium enterprises (SMEs), in this case wood-processing enterprises, can achieve this goal by implementing green logistics strategies in business practice. The main objective of this paper is to propose an algorithm for the implementation of green logistics activities in wood-processing SMEs, through a survey aimed at analyzing the accelerators and barriers to implementation in business practice. The research has been evaluated via methods of testing the statistical hypothesis (binomial test, Chi-squared, Friedman test, Wilcoxon test), methods of descriptive statistics, and data visualization. The survey found that one of the most significant determinants for implementing green logistics activities in a wood-processing enterprise is a decrease in cost. Based on the performed analysis, a model for the implementation of green logistics activities for wood-processing SMEs was proposed that includes appropriate activities that ensure the sustainable development of wood-processing SMEs in Slovakia.

The impact of green logistics-based activities on the sustainable monetary expansion indicators of Oman

Abstract: Purpose: The purpose of this study is to examine green logistic activities by three axes (financial economic, social and environment activities) and how these activities affect on sustainable monetary expansion indicators as an evidence of Sultanate of Oman Design/methodology/approach: This study began by definition elements of logistic green and how evolution of this concept in recent years This concept analyzed after survey of previous studies on green logistic The independent variables of green logistic are includes of three components of financial economic , social and environment and applies these components to clarify the impact on expansionary monetary policy indicators ( broad , narrow and reserve money ) as a important signals in determining a country's economy This study used data published in statistical annual report of central bank of Oman as representative of country economic of sultanate of Oman from the period 2008 to 2015 Findings: The results found two variables of government support to electricity sector (GSE) and subsidy on soft loans to private sector and housing (SSLPH) based on environment activities are statistical significant 1% and 5% Only one variable of transport and communication (TC) in financial economic activates is statistical significant at 1% and 5% , but all variables community, social and personal (CSP) , cultural and religious affairs (CRA) and social security and welfare (SSW) in social activities are statistical significant at 1% 5% and 10% , finally , also the multiple regression test run of all variables of green logistics activities and each monetary expansion indicators and found there are a statistical significant at 1% and 5%, The study recommends that should be attention with financial economic activities as a quantitative standard contributes to build the green logistic by diagnosed the priorities and existing economic and financial system that contributes of sustainable development system in the country's economy also activating the industrial sectors by reducing operating costs and improving the quality of service provided to customers as an indicator of social activities to building green logistic and increase corporate awareness about an environmental variables and behavior of consumers to establish financial and economic system based on green logistical concept Research limitations The available data in statistical annual report of Oman is limited, which limited of the period and all variables of the study Practical implications : The management of firms should be adopting of green logistic operations by comparing the results of these concepts with competitors in the market for concentrated position of these firms in the market Also this concept of green logistic helps firms to build an intellectual model that’s contributes to enhance the value-added The results of this study enhance the stability of monastery policy indicators that’s reflecting of growth economic Social implications: Green logistic is presenting a behavior role on the firm’s and country performance and determines the trends and attitudes of future growth of firms especially in environment indicator Originality/value: This study aims to analysis the green logistic in the financial economic, social and environment that’s reflect more variations especially as they affected by changes of global markets, particularly with respect to the oil price, which is the main source of revenue for the Sultanate of Oman as the green logistic is one of the modern concepts is influencing the construction of corporate strategies to build economic plans of the country Also this study has supplied researcher's conceptual framework to explain the green logistic in preparation for many future studies to examine the elements of green logistic

Information and communication technology in green logistics: status quo and research gaps

Abstract: The purpose of this paper is to determine the status quo of research on applications of information and communication technology (ICT) in green logistics (GL) and offer recommendations for future research. We determine that research about political interaction is needed to design new standards and regulations for GL. We also recommend that this work be extended by behavioural research to both identify factors that influence society’s sustainable behaviour and determine whether the current digitisation of society leads to more sustainable transport. In addition, this paper provides an overview of types of software applications that may be beneficial to GL. These benefits usually relate to the strategic management of freight transport and supply chains and the provision of software for executing or monitoring passenger transport. As such, further research on sustainability measures is also needed to identify important sustainable indicators in transport. Existing reviews mostly concentrate on either a specific logistics area or supply chain management; as far as we are aware, no studies focus on the use of ICT in GL at a superordinate level. This paper’s holistic evaluation of the state of research in this underexplored area and its propositions for future research help to fill this gap in the literature.

Internalization of negative external cost of green logistics and incentive mechanism

Abstract: The implementation of green logistics can reduce increasingly serious environmental damage while improving the operating efficiency of logistics enterprises. In this article, through quantitative c...

Research on the development mode and evaluation system of green cold chain logistics in China

Abstract: With the improvement of residents' living standards and humans' attention in environmental protection green consumption consciousness and so on, cold chain logistics and green logistics have become the important parts in logistics system. With the development of these two kinds of logistics mode, “green cold chain logistics” with combined of the two will also be a new kind of logistics mode. On the basis of defining the concept of green cold chain logistics in China, and according to the actual situation of cold chain logistics enterprises, this article establishes performance evaluation index system of green cold chain logistics enterprise to evaluate the level of green cold chain logistics of enterprise. The article also takes cold chain logistics enterprises as an example, and put the green thought into the enterprise management of cold chain logistics, promoting the application of green cold chain logistics in Enterprises.

Collaborating on green logistics in chemical supply chains: insights from poland

Abstract: Sustainable, safe, secure and efficient logistics is of great importance for chemical supply chains to operate successfully. However, as most logistics operations in this sector are outsourced to logistics service providers (LSPs), chemical companies have to rely on LSPs and collaborate with them when working on logistics eco-efficiency. This paper takes an LSP’s perspective. It aims to investigate the vertical as well as horizontal collaboration needed in making chemical logistics greener and safer, by shifting chemical road freight to intermodal transport, combining modes, better transport planning, and energy and emission management. The research problem is analysed on the basis of a literature review and structured, in-depth interviews conducted with nine LSPs and twelve chemical companies operating in Poland.The research is part of the “Promotion of Multimodal Transport in Chemical Logistics” project within INTERREG Central Europe Programme. The main findings from the research show that environmental regulations and targets in the EU Transport Whitepapers have resulted in LSPs’ interest to work towards establishing more ecological strategies and operations, as well as new, greener services in response to the needs of chemical companies. There are many examples of vertical cooperation, even with elements of collaboration, among LSPs and their suppliers, and chemical customers in green logistics. However, this is not the case for horizontal cooperation among LSPs operating in Poland. They consider it to be very challenging and risky, and are reluctant to share their data with other LSPs. Nevertheless, environmental regulations, technological development and efficiency goals will soon force LSPs to consider working together with other LSPs, even competitors.The research reported in this paper is limited in its scope. Even so, it does provide a platform from which more detailed research may be conducted. The managerial implications arising from the research suggest current practices in green logistics in general and green logistics in chemical industry in particular. Key words: sustainability, multimodal transport, chemical freight, Logistics Service Providers (LSPs), vertical / horizontal cooperation

Whole-course green logistics method and device

Abstract: The invention relates to a whole-course logistics method and device. The method comprises the steps of collecting and recording production information of each product through production information collection devices arranged at each production base, collecting and recording freight transport information of transported products through transport collection devices corresponding to each fright transport yard, collecting and recording sales information of product for sale through product supply devices of each stereoscopic storage supermarkets, and displaying the sales information of the products for sale on a network shopping platform; selecting a stereoscopic storage supermarket when order information of a user is received through the network shopping platform; and sending execution information to the user when a query request of the user for the order information is received. The method provided by the invention can enable the user to acquire relevant logistics information of a product at the moment of obtaining the product after purchasing the product, the reliability and the comprehensiveness of the acquired product information are improved, and the product safety is improved.

The challenges of green logistics in the Durban road freight industry

Abstract: In order to ensure sustainability within supply chain networks, organisations are being placed under constant pressure to approach their business operations in accordance with the concept of the triple bottom line. Many firms are beginning to adopt green practices to promote the integration of social, environmental and economic considerations. As dependency increases between global economies, businesses and countries, enhanced collaboration will ensure the successful implementation of green initiatives. Forging a harmonious balance between the environment, economy and society will ensure the sustenance and future of supply chains worldwide. The purpose of this study is to understand the challenges of greening logistical operations and activities in the road freight industry. The study further uses multiple regression to evaluates the relationship between logistical operations and the effects of green supply chain diffusion initiatives on 160 respondents. Although it is difficult to establish the association between the adoption of green supply chain initiatives and genuine environmental consciousness, as well as business-based and ethically-based initiatives, the study reveals that company policies encourage the greening diffusion of logistical activities. In terms of managerial implications, companies should acknowledge the influence of green knowledge and information awareness aligned with positive performance targets to alleviate green logistical costs and to reduce routing schedules.

Methodological approaches to reliable and green intermodal transportation

Abstract: A combination of transportation modes offers environmentally friendly alternatives to transport high volumes of freight over long distances. In order to reflect the advantages of each transportation mode, it is the challenge to deal with data uncertainty during the transportation planning phase. This chapter investigates the alternative ways of modeling the uncertainty by discussing them and their characteristics in terms of solution times, the quality, and the limitations. Moreover, several real-life case studies are provided to demonstrate potential environmental benefits by considering the principles of green logistics for single-mode and intermodal transportation.