Logistics sector making headway on ‘road to zero’
Added: 01 January 2019
Members of the Logistics Emissions Reduction Scheme reduced their average greenhouse gas emissions by 4% in 2017, according to the organisation’s annual review.
And according to the Freight Transport Association, this provides a clear indication of what is possible if everyone plays their part to improve efficiency and reduce emissions.
The report by LERS – a voluntary industry initiative to record, report and reduce transport emissions – collated and analysed fuel and vehicle kilometre data from its members to calculate an annual carbon figure for the scheme. LERS now represents 134 members who operate over 88,000 commercial vehicles.
“LERS is setting a positive example to the industry and is paving the way for a brighter, greener future,” Rebecca Kite, the FTA’s Environment Policy Manager, said. “The average emissions from LERS members is close to 13% lower per vehicle km than the industry average, showcasing what can be achieved with determination and the right support. In addition, LERS members’ fuel costs are 13% lower than industry as a whole.
“While there’s still much to be done to achieve national emission reduction targets, most notably the government’s voluntary industry commitment to reduce HGV GHG emissions by 15% by 2020 (compared to 2015 levels), this report shows the logistics sector is heading in the right direction.”
The report found that LERS members decreased their average kg of carbon dioxide equivalent (CO2e) per vehicle km to 0.72 from 0.75 in 2016. In addition, 48% of their HGVs and 44% of their vans are now ready for Clean Air Zones and London’s Ultra Low Emission Zone, having been upgraded to more emission-friendly Euro 6 models.
LERS is free to join and open to all companies with at least one commercial vehicle. The scheme aggregates its members’ fuel usage and business activity data to establish a carbon footprint. LERS supports its members by providing guidance on carbon reducing measures, regular policy updates and information on reducing fuel costs.