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The end-game on net-zero transportation is years away . That does not mean we should all wait until then to get started . Start with the baby steps now and build each month , quarter , year .
processes in place today that aid in sustainability . Routing efficiencies to run fewer miles , increased visibility and communication to eliminate redeliveries . These also eliminate emissions . You may have a recycling program or low-flow plumbing fixtures in your offices . LED lighting in your warehouse . If so , make a list of what you do today and tell that story first !
Next , look at what you can reasonably achieve in the next three years . Start with solutions that are available in the marketplace today and are at or near-cost parity to legacy technology . For example , electric material handling equipment , motion sensors for lighting , robust recycling programs , water-saving solutions , etc .
When it comes to complex big-ticket decisions about zero or near-zero emissions trucks , consider three things :
1 . Evaluate the viability of bridge fuels and other technologies that will lower emissions in the short term while waiting for long-term zero emission options to mature . Start with applications that fit the use case now and learn from those deployments .
2 . Partner with a climate-conscious client who is looking for a preferred carrier to help lower their Scope 3 emissions . Define a pilot project you can execute together .
3 . Research funding opportunities to reduce your capital outlay . Incentives to help clean fleets are expected to total $ 32 billion per year for the next four years .
Lastly , develop a solid data plan to track your Scope 1 , 2 and 3 emissions . You can ’ t improve what you don ’ t measure ! This is a key piece of an internal sustainability strategy , but is increasingly important to your clients as well . Regardless of where regulation ends up , your clients with climate commitments will be requesting emission data for their internal Scope 3 programs .
Get in the sustainability game
In the transportation sector , carriers who are leading the conversation are still considered early adopters on the decarbonization curve . The great benefit of being an early adopter is that you have a voice on how the end product is developed !
The end-game on net-zero transportation is years away . That does not mean we should all wait until then to get started . Start with the baby steps now and build each month , quarter , year .
Your company ’ s learnings and feedback will strengthen the entire sector as we navigate to a lower emission future . And for those seeking partners on their own decarbonization journey , you will be able to differentiate yourself as a carrier and employer of choice along the way . CLDA
Emily Phillips is the Principal & Founder of E . MISSION Advisory , a consulting practice focused on decarbonization pathways for the transportation sector . She led final-mile solutions and chaired the sustainability committee at XPO Logistics , and is the incoming President of the National Home Delivery Association ( NHDA ), as well as the co-chair of their Sustainability Council . For more information email emily @ emissionadvisory . com .
spring 2024 I customized logistics & delivery Magazine 19