FORS celebrates Earth Day 2024

FORS is acutely aware of the environmental challenges facing the transport sector today. The need to decarbonise is intensifying, not just for the health of our planet but also for the sustainability of our industry.

Environmental protection is at the heart of FORS Accreditation. In celebration of Earth Day 2024, we would like to highlight some of the incredible achievements some of our operators have made in the decarbonisation space.

FORS Accredited Operator Welch Group , a multi-generational family-run business, is a classic example of a thriving, traditional haulier with a modern outlook. Chris Welch, Commercial Operations Director, explains how the business approaches decarbonisation across its 80 vehicles and three depots.

Sustainability and decarbonisation are central to our operation, but this extends well beyond our fleet. Over recent years, we have made incremental environmental improvements across our business, including driver training, telematics for eco-driving, and investments in cleaner technology. This approach extends to our company cars, where we have begun transitioning to electric vehicles.

We’ve also engaged with the Energy Saving Trust for a full analysis of our main depot, exploring the potential for electrification. This analysis indicated that a significant portion of the fleet could transition to EVs without operational impact. However, infrastructure and supercharging facilities are crucial to fully leverage this potential.

We are very aware of the evolving environmental regulations, especially with our proximity to London and other cities implementing Ultra-Low Emission Zones (ULEZ). Recognising the inevitable shift towards more stringent environmental standards, we proactively explore sustainable solutions.

As such, infrastructure development for EVs has become a key area of focus for Welch's. We have invested in our main site, including installing solar panels and a substation, enabling the use of an HGV-accessible supercharger. This foresight positions us as a leader in sustainable fleet management.

Our journey with FORS has been instrumental in shaping our operational standards, and I anticipate environmental criteria becoming a more integral part of the FORS Standard in the future. This reflects a broader industry trend towards transparency in eco-credentials and a shift towards more sustainable practices.

FORS Accredited Operator Campeys of Selby Ltd is a well-established family haulage business that prides itself on providing a first-class logistics service. Harry Campey, Commercial & Operations Director, lifts the lid on the company’s recent strides towards a greener, more efficient fleet.

At Campeys, our approach to decarbonisation is proactive and multifaceted. We’re not just focused on future possibilities such as electrification and hydrogen power, but also on practical, immediate actions.

One of the key areas we’re addressing is the optimisation of our fleet. Recognising the challenge posed by an aging driver population and the necessity for fewer trucks on the road, we are actively working on increasing load capacities and efficiencies. This strategy not only reduces CO2 emissions but also addresses the pressing issue of the driver shortage and the rising costs of transport.

We have also implemented a range of solutions that begin with the customer. By grouping consignments and offering flexible delivery options, we are beginning to reduce the number of trucks required for deliveries. This approach not only benefits the environment but also offers financial advantages to us and our customers.

Another key investment as part of our decarbonisation commitment is bio-CNG trucks, which run on biomethane – a renewable form of natural gas – and offer a 90% reduction in CO2 emissions compared to traditional fuels. Bio-CNG trucks account for roughly 10% of our fleet, and we also recently invested in a fully electric tractor unit from DAF.

We have observed a mixed response from customers when it comes to the adoption of electric vehicles. While they appreciate the environmental benefits and the positive PR associated with using electric vehicles, they are reluctant to bear the additional costs associated with these newer, more expensive vehicles at the moment.

In contrast, we’ve found bio-CNG trucks to be a more cost-effective and sustainable option – at least for now. Despite the initial higher investment, these vehicles become cheaper to operate than diesel trucks within 18 months to two years. Many of our bio-CNG trucks have already paid for themselves, meaning we can offer deliveries at the same rate as diesel without passing on additional costs to customers. This achievement is critical in maintaining competitive pricing while advancing sustainability goals.

Training is also a key factor in decarbonisation at Campeys. For us it’s important to engage our drivers in the process. When introducing a new vehicle type, such as a CNG truck, we will initially assess the driver’s willingness to adopt the new technology. This approach ensures that drivers are comfortable and capable, turning them into advocates for the company's environmental efforts.

In addition to driver willingness, we invest in specific training programs focusing on new technologies and fuel-efficient driving techniques. These programs are supported by telematics to measure fuel savings and driving behaviours such as harsh braking. This data-driven approach not only enhances driving efficiency but also contributes to the overall sustainability goals of the company.

Looking at the road haulage industry as a whole, there’s a clear need for a mindset shift. Campeys is fully behind embracing change, focusing on health and environmental benefits rather than solely on cost. Now, more than ever, it’s vitally important that fleets are proactive in adopting sustainable practices to avoid being left behind.