Is Enough Happening in Ireland Today to Reduce CO₂ Emissions from Heavy-Duty Vehicles ?

John O’Neill and Denise O’Kelly, representing Hub360, recently had the opportunity to present smart ways of doing business while at the same time reducing CO₂ emissions from heavy-duty vehicles where the Irish Minister of State for Trade Promotion, Digital, and Company Regulation was present.

Hub360 were delighted that Dara Calleary, Minister of State for Trade Promotion, Digital, and Company Regulation was present, as it was suggestion that the CO₂ Emissions from Heavy-Duty Vehicles was something that would be dealt with at some future time. At Hub360 we believe it is important for Government Ministers involved in business and regulation to be aware that in the realm of transport and greenhouse gas emissions, it's vital to acknowledge that:

1.the conversation extends far beyond passenger cars, but also

2.there are ways to reduce these CO₂ emissions from heavy-duty vehicles now.

Why focus on CO₂ emissions from HGVs?

Because these lorries are responsible for transporting a staggering 77% of all products within the European Union. However, while they are crucial for our economy, they also significantly contribute to greenhouse gas emissions. In fact, HGVs alone account for a substantial 20% of greenhouse gas emissions in the EU.

The good news is that the technology required to shift HGVs away from fossil fuels is already available. Leading lorry manufacturers like SCANIA and VOLVO have made commitments to introduce zero-emission lorries on the roads by 2040. But what can we do right now to address emissions from HGVs?

How to address on CO₂ emissions from HGVs now?

Hub360 collaborate with large and medium-sized enterprises involved in direct product delivery, whether they manage their own fleet or utilise third-party hauliers. Typically, these organisations are primarily concentrated on providing top-quality products to their customers. However, optimising product deliveries often takes a back seat, resulting in a recurring issue: a lack of centralised management, visibility, accountability, and oversight in delivery planning. Surprisingly, outdated methods, like pen-and-paper systems, continue to dominate the delivery process, leading to unnecessary emissions and inefficiencies within businesses.

We've witnessed several challenges firsthand:

Underutilised lorry space, leading to wasted capacity and additional, avoidable trips.

Inefficient routes due to poor planning, resulting in increased fuel consumption.

Paper-based systems causing poor communication and coordination, which, in turn, lead to unnecessary journeys and idle time at drop-off locations.

At Hub360, we partnered with a client operating a fleet of approximately 150 Heavy Goods Vehicles (HGVs), conducting an average of 360 deliveries daily. By implementing a series of strategic measures, which included harnessing cutting-edge technology for load and route optimisation, resource management, and improved communications, a remarkable transformation was achieved.

A Staggering Change

Independently verified results showcased a jaw-dropping 50% reduction in delivery-related greenhouse gas emissions. Yes, you heard it right—50% fewer CO₂ emissions. Beyond this, the impact extended to the client's bottom line with significant cost reductions, increased operational capacity, and the opening of new opportunities for business expansion. This achievement stands as a monumental success, underscoring the potential for sustainability and profitability to coexist harmoniously.

The Potential Scale of Impact

Now, consider the immense scale at which these HGVs operate. With 6.2 million trucks traversing the European Union alone, even a minor reduction in emissions per vehicle can have a monumental cumulative effect. By scaling these changes across the industry, we can make a significant dent in carbon emissions, contributing to a more environmentally friendly future for all.

Embracing the Solutions

This illustrates the potential for substantial change, not only in the context of individual businesses making significant savings but also for our environment. It's time to wholeheartedly embrace these sustainable solutions and work together towards a greener and more sustainable future.

Hub360 is committed to guiding businesses on this transformative journey, where the interests of both the economy and the environment align. Let's drive change, one optimised route at a time, for a better tomorrow.