The last mile of deliveries is responsible for up to 50% of total delivery transportation emissions, finds new data from PostTag.
The report argues that around 370 million miles could be collectively avoided if businesses tighten up the final few hundred yards of home delivery, a mileage equating to 88,056 tonnes of CO2e.
PostTag highlights that the wasted emissions are due to delivery drivers struggling to find postal addresses due to inefficient mapping technology.
PostTag founder Keith Lewin warns delivery drivers may find themselves “lost in the dark” due to changing seasons and poorly-lit signage.
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“Businesses can play a vital role in ensuring their drivers can navigate the final mile safely and efficiently, saving time, money and emissions while enhancing customer satisfaction,” Lewin added.
PostTag highlights some retailers understand the environmental impact of the last mile and are looking to cut emissions.
Ikea franchisee Ingka Group has set a goal for 100% zero emissions for last-mile home deliveries.
Speaking about the challenges in implementing sustainable last mile delivery, Ingka Group global sustainable mobility leader Himanshu Raj said there are “key barriers many retailers face in scaling these initiatives”.
“Lack of electric vehicle model suitable for our type of products (home furnishing) and technological limitation for our operations with driving range in remote areas and extreme weather conditions,” Raj used as examples.
To overcome this, the retail group has collaborated with car manufactures to develop new electric vehicles.
