Leonard Electric

A Collaborative Mapping Project Exploring the Global Supply Chain

Empire Logistics is a collaborative research and mapping project that examines the intricate network of the global supply chain. Launched in 2009, the project seeks to map the infrastructure and dynamics of international trade, highlighting both the physical nodes and the unseen forces that shape this complex system.

Uncovering the Invisible Infrastructure

Our work reveals the sophisticated infrastructure that underpins the global economy. This intricate web includes:

• Amazon Warehouses (Global): Examining the vast network of warehouses that serve as storage and distribution hubs for manufactured goods.

• Bay Area High-Tech Industry Infrastructure: Exploring the unique infrastructure that supports the high-tech sector in the San Francisco Bay Area.

• Intermodal Facilities (North America): Analysing the crucial role of intermodal facilities in facilitating the seamless transfer of goods across different modes of transportation.

• Top Freeway Chokepoints (U.S.): Identifying key chokepoints in the U.S. transportation system that impact supply chain efficiency.

• Top 50 Global Container Ports: Studying the global container port system and its impact on supply chain logistics.

Beyond Physical Infrastructure: Externalized Costs

Empire Logistics goes beyond merely mapping physical infrastructure. We delve deeper, examining the broader social, economic, and environmental consequences of global trade. Our research highlights the concept of "externalized costs, " where the costs of maintaining and operating the supply chain are often shifted onto vulnerable workers and communities.

Empowering Collective Action

Empire Logistics believes that understanding the global supply chain is crucial for building a more just and equitable future. By providing open access to mapping, data, and media, we empower individuals and communities to:

• Identify vulnerabilities and power imbalances within the supply chain.

• Spark conversations about the social and environmental impact of trade.

• Engage in collective actions to address immediate socio-economic challenges.

Join Us

If you are passionate about understanding the global supply chain and driving positive change, we encourage you to get involved in the Empire Logistics project. Opportunities exist for researchers, contributors, collaborators, and workers who are committed to building a more just and sustainable future.