Category: News
Date published: November 26, 2023

Paving the way for a greener tomorrow on World Sustainable Transport Day

In a world increasingly concerned about the environmental impact of human activities, the significance of sustainable transport cannot be emphasized enough. On this World Sustainable Transport Day, we are excited to shed light on our efforts in championing eco-friendly transportation solutions, paving the way for a more sustainable future.

At the heart of our mission lies a longstanding dedication to sustainability, evident also across our operational landscape. Acknowledging the pivotal role of transportation in mitigating carbon footprints, our company has diligently worked towards implementing sustainable transport practices for several years.

A key pillar of our plan involves the decentralization of our production and packaging operations globally. This shift has yielded substantial dividends in our sustainability goals, particularly in the realm of transportation. Martijn van de Waarsenburg, Corporate Supply Chain Manager, emphasizes, ‘It's better to avoid emissions than to compensate for them.’

The past year has seen several sustainability successes at our headquarters and subsidiaries. The dispersion of production sites worldwide has led to a remarkable reduction in CO2 emissions. Notably, our North American production hub in Howell, Michigan, saw an impressive 80% reduction in CO2 emissions on a specific transportation route.

Innovations in packaging, fuel alternatives for aviation and road transport, and robust waste recycling practices have been instrumental in garnering sustainability benefits. The introduction of the Eco-friendly cooler, a recyclable replacement for Styrofoam boxes, and the use of HVO30, a sustainable hydro-treated vegetable oil, are exemplars of our commitment to ecologically sound practices.

One of the achievements in our sustainable transport journey is the ongoing transition to an electric vehicle fleet. By phasing out traditional fuel-powered vehicles, we have made significant strides in reducing carbon emissions associated with transportation. This move aligns not only with global efforts to combat climate change but also sets a positive example for other industries to follow suit.

Martijn underscores the challenges, stating, ‘Many affordable technological developments are not happening rapidly enough.’ However, our commitment remains unwavering. The introduction of the first electric van this month is a testament to our dedication, slated for local use at the headquarters in Berkel en Rodenrijs to transport goods between various Koppert locations.

Optimizing logistics operations forms a crucial part of our strategy, minimizing environmental impact through green logistics practices such as route optimization, efficient packaging, and modal shifts to eco-friendly transport modes. This holistic approach has resulted in a commendable reduction in transportation-related emissions and resource consumption.

Beyond corporate fleets, we recognize that sustainable transport extends to the commuting habits of our employees. Various engagement initiatives, including incentives for public transportation use, carpooling programs, and support for alternative commuting methods like cycling and walking, underscore our commitment to fostering a culture of sustainability within the organization.

Our endeavors in sustainable transport have translated into tangible environmental benefits. The reduction in carbon emissions, minimized ecological footprint, and efficient resource utilization showcase our dedication to preserving the planet for future generations. As we celebrate World Sustainable Transport Day, we stand at the vanguard of a greener tomorrow, fueled by innovation, commitment, and a collective responsibility for our planet's well-being.

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