Embracing a ‘Business to Planet’ Mindset: A Real-Life Sustainability Success Story
Techwave Solutions
Building greater futures through innovation and collective knowledge
In today’s rapidly changing world, organizations are increasingly recognizing the importance of sustainability not just as a corporate responsibility but as a central pillar of business strategy. The shift from a “business to consumer” or “business to business” approach to a “business to planet” mindset is more than just a conceptual shift—it’s a practical, actionable strategy that can have real-world impacts. One of the most compelling examples of this mindset in action is the work being done by Techwave Solutions in collaboration with New York City’s Department of Citywide Administrative Services (DCAS). This partnership demonstrates how a focus on sustainability can drive innovation, efficiency, and positive environmental outcomes at scale.
New York City’s DCAS: A Case Study in Sustainability
New York City’s Department of Citywide Administrative Services (DCAS) operates the largest municipal fleet in the United States, with over 28,500 on-road and off-road vehicles. This fleet is critical to the city’s operations, supporting everything from emergency services to waste management. The sheer scale and diversity of this fleet present unique challenges, particularly when it comes to sustainability. However, through strategic initiatives and forward-thinking leadership, DCAS has become a model of how municipal fleets can operate more sustainably.
Keith Kerman, the Deputy Commissioner of DCAS, has been a key figure in driving these efforts. Under his leadership, DCAS has implemented a range of initiatives aimed at reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, improving fuel efficiency, and enhancing overall fleet management. These initiatives are not just about compliance with environmental regulations—they represent a broader commitment to making New York City a leader in urban sustainability.
The Path to a Sustainable Fleet
The journey toward a more sustainable fleet at DCAS began in the mid-1990s with the adoption of compressed natural gas (CNG) vehicles. Over the years, this commitment to sustainability has evolved, with the fleet gradually incorporating hybrids, plug-in hybrids, biodiesel, and full electric vehicles (EVs). Today, DCAS operates 120 on-road and 70 off-road vehicle types, each selected for its ability to meet the specific needs of the city’s various departments while minimizing environmental impact.
A key component of DCAS’s sustainability strategy is the NYC Clean Fleet Plan. This pragmatic, action-oriented strategy aligns with the recommendations of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) and focuses on reducing GHG emissions through the use of EVs, biofuels, and other efficiency measures. The plan is ambitious, with goals of reducing GHG emissions by 50% by 2025 and 80% by 2035. The progress made so far suggests that these goals are within reach, thanks in large part to the innovative use of technology and the commitment of city leadership.
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Overcoming Challenges with Technology
While DCAS has made significant strides in sustainability, the path has not been without challenges. Some of these challenges are unique to municipal fleets, such as the need to reconcile new legislative mandates with technological realities. For example, New York City’s Local Law 140 requires that emergency and specialized trucks be electric by 2038. However, there are currently no electric snowplows on the market, and when they do become available, the infrastructure needed to support them—such as charging stations and backup power systems—will present additional challenges.
Techwave Solutions is helping DCAS navigate these challenges by providing cutting-edge technology solutions that enhance fleet management and sustainability efforts. For example, Techwave is exploring the use of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) to improve predictive maintenance, optimize vehicle usage, and enhance data quality across the fleet. These technologies not only help reduce the environmental impact of the fleet but also improve operational efficiency, making it easier for DCAS to meet its sustainability goals.
A Model for Municipal Fleets Everywhere
The work being done by DCAS, with the support of Techwave Solutions, offers a valuable model for other municipal fleets around the world. By adopting a “business to planet” mindset, DCAS is not only improving its own operations but also contributing to a broader effort to make cities more sustainable. This approach recognizes that sustainability is not just about reducing emissions—it’s about creating systems that are resilient, efficient, and capable of adapting to the challenges of the future.
In conclusion, the partnership between Techwave Solutions and New York City’s DCAS highlights the power of technology and innovation in driving sustainability. As more organizations adopt a “business to planet” mindset, we can expect to see even greater progress in the years ahead—progress that benefits not just individual businesses or cities, but the planet as a whole.