Reducing CO2 in logistics

CO2 emissions of logistics in the Netherlands

What is the current CO2 impact of our logistics sector? To get a clear picture of this, TNO was commissioned by Top Sector Logistics to map out CO2 emissions from all transport movements in the logistics sector in the Netherlands.

Carbon footprinting offers insight

Carbon footprinting can be used to map out CO2 emissions from transport and logistics. You can also estimate the effects of decarbonisation measures prior to their implementation or monitor them afterwards. At the operational (micro) level, this tool allows logistics service providers to design their processes to not only optimise their costs, but also reduce CO2 emissions. At the strategic (macro) level, carbon footprinting helps public authorities develop policies that contribute to CO2 reduction within this sector.

Carbon footprinting in practice

Various methodologies, calculation modules, and tools exist for carbon footprinting. Based on fuel or energy consumption and transport performance data, the CO2 impact of a logistics provider is calculated. TNO is contributing to optimising such methodologies and tools through various projects.

Decamod offers insight into impact

How much can different logistics segments contribute to CO2 reduction? What is the potential impact of cleaner drives and fuels? What can we save if we make logistics processes more efficient? And what is the impact of national or regional policies? To answer such questions, TNO developed the Decamod toolbox.

This toolbox offers insight into the sources of CO2 emissions within the logistics sector at different levels. Geographically (nationwide or regional), by sector (specific sectors or logistics as a whole), and by mode of transport. The model also offers insight into the impact of individual technical and logistical CO2 reduction measures and their interrelationships. Using ‘what-if’ analyses, Decamod then calculates the effects of packages of measures on, for example, vehicle kilometres, CO2 emissions, and costs.

Complex transition requires systems approach

The transport sector is facing a major transition. While demand for freight transport continues to grow, the sector faces increasingly stringent environmental requirements.

A complex challenge for the whole sector. Transport companies, logistics service providers, vehicle manufacturers, policymakers, and research institutes need to work together to make this transition successful. TNO therefore favours a systems approach, with private and public parties joining forces. Together, they can accelerate the transition to sustainable transport fuels, zero-emission vehicles, and improved efficiency in logistics and operations.