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To many, the word “sustainable” conjures up images of grassy fields, fresh produce, or pristine waters, but not trucks, right? What if we told you that SVL’s bright red trucks fit alongside these eco-friendly images? With our sustainable-forward initiatives, we do!
In alignment with our commitment to efficiency, quality, and future harmony, SVL aims to be the first logistics company to be CO2 neutral or negative. Just as we are dedicated to providing the best service to our customers, we are also committed to reducing our CO2 footprint.
Sustainability starts in the supply chain
SVL has taken numerous measures to help us reach carbon neutrality. Firstly, we believe that we must align ourselves with like minded companies in our sustainable supply chain, where our CO2 footprint starts. When we meet with suppliers, we always consider their approach on sustainability and if their environmental mission matches ours. Recently, we have started working on a partnership with Scania Japan, a leading provider of transportation solutions with similar environmental aspirations, to coordinate our messaging on sustainability.
Reduce emissions through efficient driving
There are many practices we take on the road to reduce our carbon footprint as well. In fact, driving habits can affect CO2 emissions up to 15-20%! Simple practices such as avoiding idling, smoothly accelerating and braking, using optimally inflated tires, and being mindful of rush hour traffic and congested routes can all affect vehicles’ fuel consumption and emissions.
At SVL, we train our drivers to incorporate these practices into their daily habits. Efficiently handling our loads is another way we manage CO2 emissions. With our Transport Management System (TMS), we coordinate our deliveries and thus avoid driving empty trucks, reduce unnecessary trips, and find the most optimal routes. Although clients sometimes show concern when their product shares space with those from rival companies in the same truck, the overall trend for sustainability and the excess demand for logistics providers is helping SVL change attitudes and set a new standard for sustainable logistics in Japan.
It is not just about how we drive, but what we deliver too. There is nothing more sustainable than a supply chain that recycles and reuses product at every step, which is why much of SVL’s work focuses on providing logistics between farms (food producers) and food retail businesses (food consumers). By transporting food waste back to food producers where it can be turned into fertilizer to help grow new crops, we are supporting a fully sustainable supply cycle.
Of course, carbon emissions are unavoidable given the nature of the logistics industry. Therefore, to achieve our goal of being carbon neutral or negative, we also aim to contribute to carbon offset programs. With carbon offsetting, we can support programs related to clean water, renewable energy, forest management, and more to.
At SVL, a better future is an integral part of our core values. With our goal of carbon neutrality we not only show our commitment to our company values, but also show our clients and suppliers that a sustainable future can be achieved.
