Go Green with Efficient Freight Logistics

Freight logistics across the world account for at least 1/3rd of fuel consumption and carbon dioxide emissions. Employing efficient transportation mode(s) will reduce carbon emissions and energy costs. For instance according to one of the IEA publications, shifting to more efficient freight transportation modes is expected to reduce CO2 emissions by at least forty per cent. Road transport consumes significantly more energy per tonne-km than rail or ship freight transport. Using more marine and train solutions to supplement truck transportation will reduce the emissions. But because freight can't be shipped to every place using train or marine, freight transporters prefer road transportation. Multi-modal transportation integrating road, rail and marine offers the best solution in such cases. Banking more on LTL (Less-than-truck-load) for goods shipment will not only reduce transportation costs for firms but also reduces congestion and impact on environment. However, when orders need to be expedited transporters bank on trucks for direct shipment. In such situation, logisticians should employ better practices that will improve logistics efficiency and cut carbon emissions.   More efficient logistics reduced the Volvo Group’s carbon footprint by 22 percent.

Use of advanced methods & tools for Vehicle Routing & Scheduling and load planning can optimize both loads and traveling distance. With the help of longer vehicles, firms can transport more goods during each run. For instance, use of truck rigs that are 25, 32, 40 meters long will make road transportation more efficient. Rigs will be able to ship two to three 40-ft containers, thus reducing CO2 emissions per ton per kilometer drastically. Besides, theoretical and practical training for truck drivers in fuel-efficient driving, will improve the fuel efficiency. Further, trucks should be equipped with more modern engines, which consume less fuel and emit less carbon dioxide. During 2006 - 2010, such green logistics practices helped Volvo Group’s transportation of goods in Europe reduce their carbon footprint by 22 percent improving their logistics efficiency.