In recent years fleet sustainability has become a priority in logistics and transportation. This is partially driven by the wider global response to climate change, with the push for all industries to adopt more environmentally friendly practices and take steps towards achieving Net Zero emissions. As fleet operators strive to reduce their environmental footprint, sustainable fleet management becomes crucial. But what exactly is fleet sustainability, and why is it important?
Table of contents:
- What is fleet sustainability?
- Components of sustainable fleet management
- Eco-friendly driving training
- Telematics to enhance sustainable driving
- Benefits of a sustainable fleet
What is fleet sustainability?
Fleet sustainability refers to the practice of managing commercial vehicles in a manner that minimises environmental impact, whilst maintaining operational efficiency and cost-effectiveness. This involves integrating environmentally friendly practices into all aspects of fleet operations, from vehicle acquisition and maintenance to fuel consumption and reducing emissions (fleet decarbonisation). The overarching goal is to create a balance between economic viability and environmental responsibility.
Key components of sustainable fleet management
To effectively implement sustainable fleet management, organisations must consider several key areas:
Vehicle selection
Choosing vehicles with lower emissions, such as electric or hybrid models, is a fundamental step towards greener fleet operations. The UK Government has mandated that the sale of new internal combustion engine (ICE) cars and vans will be banned from 2035, so shifting fleets to EV is also becoming important from a compliance point of view. Many fleet operators have already begun the transition to EV.
Furthermore, even when selecting electric vehicles, the fleet selection process should consider the environmental impact of the vehicles across their total lifecycle.
Eco-friendly driving training
Educating drivers on environmentally conscious driving techniques can lead to more sustainable fleet operations. Training programs that promote fuel-efficient driving habits are essential components of a comprehensive sustainability strategy. These teach drivers how to minimise harsh acceleration, braking, cornering, and engine idling to reduce emissions.
Ongoing monitoring of how eco-friendly the drivers are behaving on the roads is also important to ensure that the training is being implemented, and to identify any areas where additional coaching is needed.
Telematics to enhance sustainable driving
Monitoring driver behaviour through data gathered via telematics devices is a vital part of implementing and maintaining sustainable driving practices.
Fleet management software platforms, such as Trakm8 Insight, can detect incidences of less sustainable driving behaviours and record them, making the data available to fleet managers in visual dashboards and highlighting them.
Trakm8 Insight remotely monitors and displays speeding, harsh braking, harsh acceleration, unsafe cornering, and idling events – all of which significantly increase fuel consumption and CO2 emissions – so that they can be reduced.
Insight can also send automated alerts to fleet managers when these behaviours occur, enabling them to take action. In addition, the platform features a media library with clips of the unsafe behaviours recorded – allowing managers to review the incidents and use them as tools for coaching drivers to improve.
In-cab driver behaviour feedback systems (such as the Trakm8 ACC750) can also coach drivers be more green by giving real-time audible and visual alerts when less sustainable driving events are detected .
Efficient route planning
Planning optimal routes in advance can significantly reduce fuel consumption and emissions. By minimising unnecessary mileage, fleets can enhance efficiency and decrease their carbon footprint.
AI-driven route optimisation software like Trakm8 Route Optimisation can take into account many variables (such as traffic, road maintenance, driver locations, fleet size and more) to produce the most economical and environmentally conscious routes.
Regular fleet maintenance
Comprehensive vehicle maintenance helps to ensure optimal fleet performance, fuel efficiency and reduces emissions. Regular servicing, checks and timely repairs contribute to both the longevity and sustainability of the fleet.
Drivers should be trained to perform checks before driving fleet vehicles – including ensuring that tyres are inflated to the correct pressures, that lights are functioning, and that any unnecessary weight is removed from the vehicle.
Benefits of a more sustainable fleet
Fleet sustainability is not only an environmental concern, it holds substantial economic and social significance.
Environmental impact
By adopting sustainable practices, fleets can significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions, contributing to climate change mitigation. Transitioning to cleaner vehicles and optimising operations are vital steps in addressing the global environmental challenges posed by transportation.
Economic benefits
While the initial investment in sustainable fleet management may be substantial, the long-term economic benefits are considerable. Reduced fuel consumption, lower maintenance costs, and potential government incentives for eco-friendly practices can lead to significant savings.
Social responsibility
Incorporating sustainability into fleet management reflects an organisation’s commitment to corporate social responsibility. It enhances brand reputation and aligns with consumer expectations for environmentally conscious business practices. Moreover, it can serve as a catalyst for positive change within the community and industry.
Conclusion
Fleet sustainability is an essential component of modern logistics. By embracing sustainable fleet management, organisations not only contribute to environmental conservation but also gain economic advantages and fulfil their social responsibilities. As the transportation sector continues to evolve, the importance of fleet sustainability will only increase, making it imperative for businesses to integrate these practices into their operational strategies.
