The future of logistics and the environment are firmly linked. With seven per cent of all carbon emissions coming from the logistics sector, there are many advances to be made as we drive towards carbon-neutral logistics.
To get there, the transport industry will embrace new technologies to reduce its environmental impact. With the UK government targeting carbon neutrality by 2050, what challenges do we face?
Challenges facing the transport industry and logistics sector
The broader transport industry is the number one contributor to air and noise pollution in the UK. As such, it has considerable responsibility in the planet’s push towards a greener future.
The same is true for the logistics sector specifically. While carbon-neutral logistics are still some way off, there are several methods we can implement to lower the environmental impact of logistics:
- Continue to invest in equipment with lower emissions. We’ll achieve this by using more advanced vehicles with cleaner fuel sources. In years to come, electric and hybrid vehicles will lead the way to cleaner logistics.
- Efficient trip planning. By using advanced trip and route planning, it’s possible to combine shipments to make fewer trips overall.
- Let data lead. By using tools such as data tracking and cold chain monitoring, trips are more efficient. Combined with driving statistics, we can ensure that all trips are made as economically as possible, minimising fuel use.
- Look at the big picture. While improving the emissions of logistics is critical, we also need to consider the sources of energy and waste at warehouses and offices. Implementing measures to lessen the environmental impact will help the overall carbon-neutral objective.
What have we done so far?
While the future will bring huge changes to the logistics sector, Dennis Distribution has already begun to implement schemes to reduce its carbon emissions. We have a net-zero target of 2040, and have lowered our carbon emissions per mile between 2020 and 2021. We achieved this by:
- Using data to monitor emissions thoroughly
- Meeting Euro 6 emissions standards across our entire fleet
- Using technology and space-saving techniques to minimise empty space in vehicles
- Improving vehicle performance with aerodynamic kits
- Improving driver performance with dedicated trainers and telematic data reviews.
- Invest in cleaner fuels for temperature-controlled logistics
To reach our net-zero target, there are more plans in place.
How are we working towards carbon neutral logistics?
When looking to the future of logistics, the environment is at the forefront of our plans. To lessen the environmental impact of logistics further, we will:
- Invest in the latest equipment and clean fuel technology
- Embrace new fuels as and when they are available
- Continue to measure our emissions and look for all opportunities to go greener.
Here’s to the future
There are several challenges on the road to net-zero. By embracing technology and data, we’ll lower the environmental impact of logistics while providing the same outstanding service to clients. Contact Dennis Distribution today to see how we can help you.