On June 21, 2018, UPS, a global leader in logistics, announced a substantial investment in sustainability by expanding its use of compressed natural gas (CNG) vehicles in Canada, showcasing its commitment to environmental responsibility. The initiative includes adding seven CNG highway tractors and 40 delivery trucks to its Canadian fleet, aiming for 50% of operations to run on alternative fuels by the end of 2018. At the time of the announcement, over 40% of UPS Canada’s fleet was already operating on alternative fuels.
Collaboration with FortisBC
A key part of this sustainability effort is the establishment of a CNG fueling station in Vancouver, B.C., in collaboration with FortisBC. FortisBC, a regulated utility, provided incentive funding and support to help introduce these natural gas vehicles. This partnership highlights a shared commitment to reducing greenhouse gas emissions and promoting clean energy. Roger Dall’Antonia, President and CEO of FortisBC, noted the dual benefits of reducing carbon footprints and lowering fuel costs by adopting natural gas.
Expanding CNG Infrastructure
The Vancouver CNG station is now part of a network of more than 50 operational natural gas stations that UPS has strategically located across the U.S. and internationally, including in the United Kingdom. UPS employs a “rolling laboratory” approach, testing various alternative fuel vehicles under different conditions to determine the best solutions based on factors like terrain and climate. Globally, UPS operates over 3,800 CNG-fueled vehicles and has announced further investments to expand these operations within the U.S.
Sustainability Goals
Additionally, UPS is set to release its 2017 Sustainability Report, tracking progress against its global sustainability goals. One important target is replacing 40% of its ground fuel needs with alternatives to conventional gasoline and diesel. This report reflects UPS’s continuous efforts in achieving its environmental objectives.
Conclusion
On June 21, 2018, UPS, a global leader in logistics, made a significant move towards sustainability by increasing its use of compressed natural gas (CNG) vehicles in Canada. This action underscores their dedication to environmental stewardship. The plan includes integrating seven CNG highway tractors and 40 delivery trucks into their Canadian fleet, aiming to have 50% of their operations rely on alternative fuels by the end of 2018. At the time of the announcement, UPS Canada’s fleet already had over 40% of its vehicles running on alternative fuels, illustrating their ongoing commitment to reducing their carbon footprint. This strategic investment in CNG technology will further enhance their efforts to operate more efficiently and sustainably. By expanding their use of alternative fuels, UPS not only aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions but also to set a strong example for the logistics industry. In aligning their business with environmental goals, UPS remains at the forefront of promoting a greener future through innovation and responsible practices.
