The benefits of managing the carbon footprint in transport companies

For a transport company, managing the carbon footprint efficiently is not only an environmental matter: it cuts fuel costs, improves regulatory compliance and has become a requirement for working with large shippers. Transport is one of the main emitters of greenhouse gases (GHGs), so measuring and reducing its emissions has a direct impact on the business.

In this article we go through the main benefits of measuring and managing the carbon footprint well in the transport sector, and how to get started.

Why is it important to measure the carbon footprint in transport?

The first step to reducing emissions is to measure them. Without a reliable carbon footprint inventory it is not possible to know which routes, vehicles or modes concentrate the impact, nor to demonstrate improvements to customers and public bodies.

Measuring well allows decisions to be based on data: prioritising fleet renewal, optimising routes, choosing alternative fuels or switching to more efficient modes. To do it in a comparable way, the sector has the GLEC Framework and ISO 14083, the references for calculating transport and logistics emissions.

What benefits does good carbon footprint management bring?

Lower operating costs

Energy efficiency and emissions reduction go hand in hand. Optimising routes, improving the load factor, avoiding empty kilometres and renewing the fleet towards more efficient vehicles all reduce fuel consumption, one of the sector's biggest cost lines. Although the initial investment may be high, the medium-term saving usually makes up for it.

Regulatory compliance

The environmental regulatory framework is increasingly demanding. Many transport companies are subject, directly or indirectly, to the CSRD and to the requirements of their customers, who need data for their Scope 3. Knowing and complying with the applicable legislation avoids penalties and prepares the company for new obligations. You can review the landscape in our guide to business sustainability laws and directives.

Access to clients and tenders

More and more contracts and tenders, public and private, require proof of emissions and reduction plans. Having a verifiable inventory and, where relevant, registration of the carbon footprint with Spain's MITECO becomes a competitive advantage for winning and retaining clients.

Reputation and access to finance

Credible management of emissions improves the company's ESG position, strengthens its reputation and makes it easier to access finance linked to sustainability criteria.

How to manage the carbon footprint efficiently in transport?

A realistic roadmap for a transport company includes:

1. Measure the scope 1, 2 and 3 emissions with a recognised methodology (GLEC / ISO 14083).
2. Shift towards more sustainable transport, renewing the fleet and bringing in alternative fuels or zero-emission vehicles.
3. Improve driving practices (efficient driving, speed, load distribution and maintenance).
4. Plan routes to reduce distances, make the most of recharging infrastructure and minimise empty runs.
5. Monitor and report continuously to demonstrate improvement and feed ESG reporting.

To go deeper into the technical measures, see our guides on how trucks can reduce CO2 emissions and the types of green trucks.

Solutions to decarbonise your transport company

Manglai combines artificial intelligence with recognised methodologies to automate the calculation and management of the carbon footprint, with detailed reports that pinpoint where to apply each strategy. To measure the emissions of your transport and logistics operations in line with GLEC and ISO 14083, you can start with Manglai's service footprint.

Frequently asked questions

Which standard is used to calculate the carbon footprint of transport?

The GLEC Framework and ISO 14083 are the international references for transport and logistics; the GHG Protocol and ISO 14064 frame the corporate footprint.

Does reducing the carbon footprint save money?

Yes. Most of the levers (routes, load factor, efficient driving, an efficient fleet) reduce fuel consumption and, with it, costs.

Is registering the carbon footprint mandatory?

It depends on the size and activity of the company and on the applicable regulation. Registration with MITECO is a recognised seal and, in some cases, a requirement in public procurement.