The importance of sustainability in transportation

The transportation sector faces a critical challenge: sustainability. Far from being a passing trend, sustainability is now an urgent necessity to combat climate change. As a significant contributor to global greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, the transportation sector has a pivotal role to play.

The impact of carbon footprints in the transportation industry

A carbon footprint measures the total GHG emissions, primarily carbon dioxide (CO2), produced directly or indirectly by an activity, product, or service.

Transportation is one of the largest contributors to global carbon footprints. According to the International Energy Agency (IEA), this sector accounts for approximately 24% of global CO2 emissions related to energy.

Benefits of implementing sustainability in transportation

Adopting sustainable practices in transportation is not just a moral obligation; it also offers significant advantages for businesses and society.

1. Reducing pollution and improving public health

Sustainable measures such as fleet electrification or the use of biofuels significantly reduce harmful emissions. This leads to better air quality, fewer respiratory illnesses, and improved overall public health.

2. Lowering operational costs

Although transitioning to sustainable transportation requires initial investments, it yields long-term savings. For instance, electric vehicles have lower operating and maintenance costs compared to internal combustion vehicles.

3. Enhancing corporate image and social responsibility

In a world increasingly focused on sustainability, transportation companies adopting responsible practices gain a stronger, more positive corporate image. Measuring and managing carbon footprints becomes a key differentiating factor.

How to reduce carbon footprints in transportation

Reducing carbon footprints in transportation requires a holistic approach that combines technology, cultural shifts, and systemic changes.

1. Awareness and cultural change

Promote sustainability within companies and among citizens by:

• Educating about the environmental impact of transportation.
• Encouraging the use of more sustainable modes of transportation, such as public transit or bicycles.
• Promoting telecommuting whenever feasible.

2. Fleet modernization with low-emission vehicles

Transitioning to electric, hybrid, or hydrogen-powered vehicles is essential for decarbonizing transportation. Key enablers include:

• Government incentives.
• Development of charging infrastructure.
• Improvements in vehicle range and performance.

The importance of measuring carbon footprints in transportation

Measuring carbon footprints is the first step in effectively managing and reducing them. Accurate data collection on emissions from various transportation activities is essential.

Manglai provides an integrated solution for measuring, managing, and reducing carbon footprints, leveraging the GHG Protocol and ISO 14064 standards.

Our platform enables transportation companies to:

1. Automate emissions calculations for Scopes 1, 2, and 3.
2. Identify key emission sources within their operations.
3. Set reduction targets and monitor progress over time.
4. Generate auditable sustainability reports to showcase efforts and compliance.
5. Connect with a network of decarbonization partners for additional support.