How to reduce CO2 emissions from trucks

When we talk about reducing CO2 emissions in the business sector, one of the most crucial areas is undoubtedly freight transportation. In this article, we focus on reducing CO2 emissions in road freight transport, a fundamental sector for the operation of most businesses. We will address the challenges and solutions to reduce the environmental impact of trucks.  

‍Decarbonizing freight transport‍

Road freight transport is a key component of the supply chain for many industries. However, this sector is also a significant emitter of greenhouse gases, primarily CO2, due to its high dependence on fossil fuels.

Reducing the carbon footprint of freight transport provides competitive advantages, enhances brand image, and opens new business opportunities in an increasingly sustainability-conscious market.

Environmental impact of road freight transport‍

The environmental impact of road freight transport is mainly due to the burning of fossil fuels such as diesel, which releases large amounts of CO2, the primary greenhouse gas, into the atmosphere.

In addition to CO2, trucks emit other pollutants such as nitrogen oxides (NOx), particulate matter (PM), and sulfur dioxide (SO2), which are harmful to human health and the environment.

How to reduce CO2 emissions in freight transport‍

There are various solutions to mitigate the environmental impact of road freight transport. These include adopting more efficient technologies, implementing alternative fuels, and optimizing transport routes.

Using electric trucks for freight transport‍

Electric trucks represent a revolution in the freight transport sector. By running on electricity, these vehicles produce no direct greenhouse gas emissions during operation, making them a much cleaner and more sustainable alternative.

Advantages of electric trucks

• Carbon footprint reduction: Electric trucks eliminate direct CO2 emissions, significantly contributing to the fight against climate change.
• Lower operating costs: Electric trucks can lead to considerable economic savings, as electricity is cheaper than diesel or gasoline. Additionally, electric vehicles usually have lower maintenance costs.
• Reduced noise pollution: Electric motors are much quieter than internal combustion engines.
• Improved brand image: Adopting electric trucks conveys an innovative and environmentally committed business image.

Disadvantages of electric trucks

• Purchase price: The initial cost of an electric truck is usually higher than that of an equivalent diesel or gasoline truck.
• Limited range: Electric trucks currently have a limited range compared to diesel or gasoline trucks, which can be problematic for long-distance transport.
• Charging infrastructure: The lack of sufficient and strategically located public charging infrastructure is one of the main obstacles to the widespread adoption of electric trucks.

Implementing green technologies in truck fleets‍

Beyond electric trucks, other green technologies can help reduce CO2 emissions in road freight transport:

• Hybrid trucks: Combine an internal combustion engine with an electric motor, reducing fuel consumption and pollutant emissions.
• Alternative fuels: Using alternative fuels such as biodiesel, green hydrogen, or liquefied natural gas (LNG) can significantly reduce CO2 emissions compared to diesel.
• Fleet management systems: Enable route optimization, reduce idling time, and improve fuel efficiency.
• Aerodynamics: Improving truck aerodynamics by adding wind deflectors, side skirts, or optimizing the load can reduce wind resistance and fuel consumption.
• Low rolling resistance tires: Choosing tires with lower rolling resistance can reduce fuel consumption by up to 3%.

Measuring the carbon footprint of freight transport‍

Measuring the carbon footprint involves quantifying the greenhouse gas emissions associated with transport activities. This includes direct emissions from vehicle combustion and indirect emissions from fuel production and distribution.

There are tools and methodologies for measuring the carbon footprint of freight transport, such as:

• ISO 14064 standards and GHG Protocol: Provide international guidelines and standards for accounting and reporting greenhouse gas emissions.
• Fleet management software: Some fleet management software includes features for calculating and tracking vehicle carbon footprints.
• Online tools: Various free and paid online tools allow for calculating the carbon footprint of a journey or a fleet of vehicles.

Measure and manage your freight transport carbon footprint with Manglai‍

At Manglai, we offer a comprehensive solution for measuring and managing your carbon footprint. Our platform enables companies to calculate their emissions, identify reduction opportunities, implement action plans, and transparently report their progress.