Going Green in Trucking Industry

Many industries around the world have started thinking about the ways they can go green. The transportation industry is responsible for over 20% of global greenhouse gas emissions, with trucks making up more than 30% of this. It also contributes to air pollution, which is damaging to both human health and the environment. This is why it’s important for companies to do their part and find ways to reduce their environmental impact. Here are 6 ways trucking companies are going green. 

1. Optimizing Delivery Routes
   Optimizing delivery routes is an obvious and simple solution. This involves choosing the most efficient routes for delivery. While it may take a little bit more planning in advance, in the long run it’s a great way to save time, money and fuel. And of course it has the benefit of reducing environment impact. Trucking companies can use technology like GPS to map out routes and keep track of where their trucks are located. 
2. Regular Maintenance
   There are many benefits for companies carrying out regular maintenance on their trucks. Not only is it safer and more efficient, it also saves money on repairs. Even minor maintenance issues such as tire pressure can lead to reduced performance and productivity. This in turn leads to a bigger environmental impact. A well maintained fleet is more sustainable and environmentally friendly.
3. Truck Technology
   Investing in hybrid or electric technology is an effective way to go green. Big companies such as Coco-Cola and FedEx have been using hybrid trucks for years to help improve efficiency and reduce emissions. Upgrades to things like tires, aerodynamic panels and exhaust systems can also help. 

Photo Credits: Pixabay

 

4. Driving Habits
   Educating drivers on sustainable driving habits is another way for companies to go green. If drivers work to actively reduce their fuel consumption, they can lower their truck’s emissions. Some ways they can do this is by maintaining consistent speeds and stopping less. Driving a little slower will also help as it will consume less fuel. While slower speed could affect productivity, it can be balanced out with route optimization. 
5. Stopping Idling
   An idle truck can consume an entire gallon of fuel in one hour. Idling contributes to pollution and wastes both fuel and money. Overcoming idling can be done through changing driver’s habits or investing in auxiliary power units. APUs provide power for things like air conditioning, electrical devices and keeping the truck warm. There may be times where idling can’t be avoided, but drivers should be encouraged to turn off the engine as much as possible to reduce the impact. 
6. Office
   Making adjustments in the office is one of the easiest ways to go green, regardless of the industry. There are several ways to make your office eco-friendly. One method is refurbishing and recycling office equipment and furniture. This is an effective way to save money and reduce waste. Things like switching to LED lighting and turning off lights/electronics when not in use can help with energy conservation as well. Ensuring that your company has a well-managed cash flow and finding ways to operate sustainably will go a long way to help you go green.

Reducing emissions and going green needs to be an industry wide effort. Trucking companies can do their part by educating drivers and making whatever changes they can. A lot of these tips work best in combination with each other. While some of them may require a bigger investment than others, even small efforts can make a difference. Going green promotes efficiency and both economic and environmental sustainability. This makes it a win for everyone. 

Freelance writer, Maia Fletcher hails from the beautiful City of Gisborne, New Zealand. She loves reading about the latest tech gadget releases and marvelling at how rapidly technology has evolved over the years. Check out Maia’s blog for more of her published work.