Protecting our environment: reducing emissions in the freight transport sector

Billions of tons of freight criss-cross the globe every year, courtesy of trucks, planes, ships and trains, making the trucking industry the backbone of global trade. Yet this essential service does not come without costs to the environment, as it contributes significantly to the world’s greenhouse gas emissions.

The journey from busy ports to busy depots involves more than just moving goods; it is intertwined with the urgent need to tread lighter on our planet. As the conversation around sustainability gains momentum, exploring how the freight sector can reduce its carbon footprint becomes not only relevant, but essential.

The current environmental impacts of freight transport

As a crucial artery of global trade, the freight industry moves billions of tons of goods, creating a complex network that connects markets across continents. This relentless activity, while indispensable, casts a long shadow over our ecological health. It is responsible for 8% of global greenhouse gas emissions, a figure that rises to 11% when the supporting activities of warehouses and ports are included.

This important contribution underlines the urgent need for the industry to address environmental impact head-on, making exploring sustainable practices not just a choice, but a necessity for a greener future.

How popular companies are reducing their emissions

• Evri’s approach to sustainability

In the quest to make the final phase of delivery greener, Evri stands out with its progressive strategy. Recognition of the environmental impact associated with doorstep deliveries, Evri has committed to significantly reducing its environmental footprint. The culmination of its sustainability journey came in April 2023, when it announced ambitious plans to dramatically increase its parcel delivery use of electric cargo bikes.

By aiming to make more than 500,000 such deliveries annually, Evri is not only adapting to a more sustainable model, but also setting a precedent in environmentally friendly logistics, becoming a beacon for others in the industry looking to strive to minimize their impact on the environment.

DPD has taken a robust stance on environmental responsibility and has set out an ambitious path towards sustainability within the logistics sector. The company has set clear targets to revolutionize its business, aiming for 85% of its transport solutions to be emission-free by 2030 and reaching a peak of 100% by 2035.

This commitment extends beyond its fleet, as DPD plans to transition to renewable energy sources and improve energy efficiency at all its locations. They expect that at least 70% of their office and logistics facilities will be powered by renewable sources by 2030, with the aim of a full transition by 2035.

Moreover, DPD has a future in mind where 90% of company cars and internal vehicles will be electric by 2030, and aims for full electrification by 2035. These steps towards sustainability not only underline DPD’s commitment to reducing its environmental footprint, but also highlight the tangible steps companies can take to contribute to a cleaner environment. , greener planet.

Environmentally conscious solutions to help your business get started

Adopting sustainable practices within the freight transport sector is not only beneficial for the environment, but also for the long-term viability of businesses. In an era where consumers are increasingly aware and concerned about the environmental impact of their choices, companies are finding value in greening their operations:

• Maintain fuel supplies properly

In the transition to sustainable business operations, a fundamental step is the correct management of fuel supplies. For companies that depend on diesel for transport or activities, how to do that store diesel properly is a crucial aspect of this process. Ensuring that long-term fuel storage solutions are in place and taking steps to prevent water pollution can significantly improve fuel combustion efficiency.

This not only prevents engine problems such as knocking, but also reduces emissions and improves performance. Adopting these practices not only contributes to environmental sustainability, but also optimizes operational efficiency, which means a win-win for both the planet and business productivity.

• Investing in electric vehicles

The switch to electric vehicles (EVs) marks a crucial step for companies looking to reduce their carbon emissions. By including electric vehicles in their fleets, companies not only reduce their dependence on fossil fuels, but also reap the benefits of lower operating costs and lower emissions.

This strategy not only aligns with global sustainability goals, but also places companies at the forefront of environmental responsibility within their sector. With technological advancements and a growing range of electric options, investing in electric vehicles is becoming an increasingly viable and impactful choice for the trucking industry, leading towards a cleaner, more sustainable future.

• Train employees in efficient driving techniques

Equipping employees with the knowledge of efficient driving techniques is an important strategy in reducing fuel consumption and emissions. This initiative involves teaching drivers how to operate vehicles in ways that maximize fuel efficiency, such as maintaining a constant speed, optimizing route planning and reducing downtime.

This practice not only leads to significant reductions in greenhouse gas emissions, but also offers companies the opportunity to reduce operating costs. By investing in driver training programs, trucking industry companies can make a substantial impact on their environmental footprint, demonstrating a commitment to sustainability that goes beyond fleet upgrades to include the human element of their operations.

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