Sustainable Practices in Freight Logistics

ustainability has become a critical focus across freight operations worldwide. About seven million medium and heavy-duty freight trucks circulate the United States today and almost all are powered by traditional internal combustion engines. These vehicles generate over 25% of total greenhouse gas emissions from the transportation sector, including carbon dioxide and nitrogen oxides, pollutants that threaten the population’s respiratory and cardiovascular health.

As truck transport continues to grow, with about 65% of freight tonnage expected to be shipped by truck in 2050, emissions grow as well. With growing concerns about their environmental impact, freight companies are increasingly adopting sustainable practices and innovative technologies to reduce their carbon footprint and operate more responsibly. 

Here’s a look at some innovative ways the freight industry is embracing sustainability, reducing its environmental impact, and setting new standards for eco-friendly operations.

The adoption of alternative fuels is a significant step toward reducing the carbon footprint of freight operations. Many companies are now investing in newer, more efficient vehicle technologies, including electric, hybrid, and hydrogen fuel cell vehicles. These alternatives produce fewer emissions compared to traditional diesel engines and contribute to cleaner air quality. Volvo is expanding its range of biodiesel-powered trucks, as the company aims to reduce the climate impact of its trucks. Volvo Trucks has one of the industry’s broadest ranges of renewable fuel options, including biodiesel, HVO (Hydrotreated Vegetable Oils) and biogas.

PepsiCo Beverages North America plans to add 50 Tesla electric semi-trucks to its California fleet as part of the company’s mission to reach net-zero emissions by 2040. The company plans to rollout the trucks throughout the next several months. Pepsi will also add 75 Ford E-Transit electric vans to its California fleet at its 13 locations for deliveries and service support. Forty percent of greenhouse gas emissions in California are caused by the transportation sector. The state is driving the switch to emission-free heavy-duty trucks to meet its goal of reaching a 40% reduction of greenhouse gas emissions by 2030. 

Advanced software is enhancing how freight routes are planned and managed. By optimizing delivery routes and fully loading vehicles, companies can minimize empty miles, reduce fuel consumption, and decrease emissions. This not only helps the environment but also improves operational efficiency. Route optimization takes into account various factors to reduce driving distances and time on the road, lowering fuel consumption and emissions.

Effective load management ensures that each vehicle is loaded to its optimal capacity. By ensuring that vehicles carry the maximum possible load, companies can lower the number of delivery trips and decrease the need for additional vehicles. Fewer vehicles on the road mean less congestion, which not only contributes to lower emissions but also reduces the overall traffic burden. Advanced delivery management systems provide freight companies with the tools to optimize routes efficiently and consolidate loads to maximize vehicle utilization.

Urban last-mile delivery emissions are on track to increase by over 30% by 2030 in the top 100 cities globally. Along with increased carbon emissions, traffic congestion is expected to rise by over 21%, the equivalent of adding 11 minutes to each passenger’s daily commute, according to the World Economic Forum. As demand for urban delivery continues to grow, cities are implementing new initiatives, investing in new technologies, and collaborating with logistics companies to drive collective efforts towards greener urban freight practices.

New York City has been awarded a $5.6 million grant from the U.S. Department of Transportation’s RAISE program to establish an Urban Freight Lab. The Urban Freight Mobility Collaborative, led by the NYC Department of Transportation, will form partnerships with community, industry, and academic entities to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from freight transport. The project aims for a 40% reduction in emissions by 2032. The initiative will explore emerging technologies such as micro-distribution centers, commercial cargo bicycles, and electric freight vehicles to enhance freight logistics sustainability.

Adopting sustainable practices in the freight industry is not only essential for reducing environmental impact but also for enhancing operational efficiency, meeting customer expectations, and maintaining regulatory compliance. As freight companies continue to innovate and invest in sustainable solutions, they play a pivotal role in shaping a more environmentally responsible future.

For more information about how our delivery management solution can help you manage your deliveries more efficiently, please contact info@bringoz.com.