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Shifting gears: The emergence of eco-friendly vehicles in logistics

March 10, 2024 7 Mins Read

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In an era marked by rapid globalisation, logistics serves as the backbone of timely and efficient goods delivery. Yet, the mounting concerns over environmental sustainability and the effects of air pollution are forcing a critical reevaluation of traditional practices. The industry faces increasing scrutiny due to its carbon footprint and its role as one of the significant sources of air pollution. Consequently, the logistics sector is shifting gears to embrace green logistics, adopting various eco-friendly vehicles like electric cars in Bangladesh and around the globe. Whether it’s CNG cars or the evolving types of electric vehicles designed for reduced emissions, the focus is clear: lessen vehicular pollution and move towards the prevention of air pollution. This approach not only serves to bring down car emissions but also offers myriad eco-friendly benefits, demonstrating that addressing the causes of air pollution is not just an ethical imperative but a business-savvy move as well.

This blog aims to explore the emergence and impact of eco-friendly vehicles in logistics.

The environmental impact of conventional cars

In the logistics landscape, characterised by expansive international shipping networks, conventional fuel-based vehicles have long been the go-to option. Yet, these vehicles are not without their environmental drawbacks. They rank as major sources of air pollution, exacerbating the effects of air pollution, including smog formation and respiratory ailments. In fact, according to The University of Melbourne, vehicle emissions are responsible for 6,840 respiratory hospitalisations and 12,210 cardiovascular hospitalisations per year in Australia alone. Their substantial carbon footprint is increasingly drawing concern from the public and regulatory bodies alike, as these vehicles' fuel inefficiency continues to be a significant driver behind the causes of air pollution. This has amplified the call for green logistics strategies, creating a sense of urgency around finding ways to reduce vehicular pollution as part of the broader mission to ensure environmental sustainability in the logistics industry.

Understanding eco-friendly vehicles

To address these environmental woes, the sector is increasingly turning towards eco-friendly vehicles. But what exactly are these types of vehicles?

1. Electric cars

An electric car operates entirely on electricity. It doesn't emit tailpipe pollutants, thus helping to reduce vehicular pollution. They contribute significantly to the prevention of air pollution, making them a truly green option in the lineup of environmentally friendly vehicles.

2. Hybrid cars

Hybrid cars offer another innovative solution, standing out for their versatility in fuel usage. Designed with both an internal combustion engine and an electric battery, the true meaning of a hybrid car resides in its capacity to toggle between these fuel types, which directly leads to substantial reductions in emissions.

3. Natural gas cars

Natural gas cars, which run on compressed natural gas (CNG), serve as yet another compelling option in the push for environmental sustainability within logistics. Eclipsing traditional fuel options in eco-friendliness, natural gas cars emit significantly fewer pollutants. When integrated into fleets engaged in overseas shipping, these environmentally friendly vehicles substantially reduce vehicular pollution, making them an essential component of green logistics strategies that aim to lessen both the carbon footprint and adverse effects of air pollution associated with goods movement.

4. Diesel cars

Modern diesel vehicles, equipped with advanced emission control systems, also make the cut. Though not as clean as electric or hybrid cars, they offer a more eco-friendly alternative to their older counterparts, especially when considering ways to reduce vehicular pollution.

Benefits of eco-friendly vehicles

Recent years have witnessed a surge in the use of eco-friendly vehicles in logistics. Various factors contribute to this trend, including stringent government regulations, technological advancements, and increasing consumer demand for green logistics.

A non-profit organisation focused on clean transportation, Calstart, projects that the count of electric truck models will soar to 195 by 2023, significantly outpacing the available options in 2022. This indicates that shipping companies are poised to become pivotal players in the transition towards renewable energy. Consequently, it's imperative for governments to engage directly with these companies to elucidate the specific advantages and functionalities of eco-friendly vehicles.

1. Environmental benefits

The most salient advantage of incorporating eco-friendly vehicles into logistics operations is their positive impact on environmental sustainability. These environmentally friendly cars significantly lessen vehicular pollution, acting as a potent solution for the prevention of air pollution. Not only do they reduce the carbon footprint of logistics activities, but they also address the key causes of air pollution tied to transportation. In doing so, these types of electric vehicles present a crucial step in green logistics, especially in contexts requiring international shipping.

2. Business benefits

Adopting eco-friendly vehicles brings tangible business benefits to logistics operations. These vehicles are not only fuel-efficient but also contribute to reducing car emissions, thereby offering significant cost savings over time. Incorporating these types of environmentally friendly vehicles aligns with the broader goals of green logistics, a step that can substantially enhance a company's brand image. Businesses in the logistics sectors can even avoid paying the potential carbon tax that the government in Bangladesh recently proposed in the latest budget for the fiscal year 2023 to 2024, adding another layer of financial advantage. This strategic shift doesn't just advance environmental sustainability; it also positions a company as a leader in adopting effective ways to reduce vehicular pollution, especially relevant in regions like Bangladesh where the effects of air pollution are a growing concern.

3. Societal benefits

Incorporating eco-friendly vehicles like electric cars into logistics operations offers considerable societal benefits. One of the most immediate gains is the improvement of air quality, a critical factor in enhancing public health. By taking steps to reduce vehicular pollution, logistics companies directly contribute to the prevention of air pollution. This is especially pertinent in densely populated regions such as Bangladesh, where the causes and effects of air pollution are a mounting concern. The shift towards eco-friendly vehicles is not just a move for environmental sustainability but also an investment in the well-being of the community.

Addressing challenges and finding solutions

Transitioning to eco-friendly vehicles is a complex yet necessary step towards achieving environmental sustainability. While this transition offers a robust solution to reduce vehicular pollution, it comes with its own set of challenges. Companies navigating the shift often encounter higher upfront costs associated with environmentally friendly vehicles, such as the acquisition of state-of-the-art vehicles like electric trucks. They also face limited range issues, which pose a logistical challenge. Further complicating the matter are infrastructure needs, like a lack of widespread charging stations, which could stymie the adoption of eco-friendly vehicles even when entities are willing to adapt.

However, ongoing efforts are steadily resolving these barriers. Technological advancements are continually extending vehicle ranges and reducing costs, making it increasingly viable to reduce car emissions significantly. Governmental bodies are also stepping in, offering subsidies to incentivise the transition. Moreover, the development of charging infrastructure is accelerating, making it easier than ever to reduce vehicular pollution. Such collective efforts not only pave the way for a more sustainable future but also contribute to the prevention of air pollution at large.

Building a more sustainable future with DHL Express

Over the years, DHL Express has carved out a leadership role in the logistics industry, continually pushing the envelope with technological innovation and exceptional service offerings. Our focus extends beyond mere efficiency; we are deeply committed to achieving environmental sustainability as well. Through our groundbreaking GoGreen Solutions, we aim to fully greenify supply chains while also enabling our customers to meet their own eco-conscious objectives. Central to our vision for a more sustainable future is the integration of electric vehicles, reinforcing our comprehensive approach to reducing carbon footprints and mitigating environmental impacts.

Begin with a business account today and set your company on a path toward social responsibility and sustainable operations.

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