The European Union, the transport sector is responsible for approximately 25% of the CO2 emissions. This means that it contributes substantially to the total. John Opstal of Opstal Logistics discusses how his business meets the challenge. Beginning January 1st 2025, major EU firms, such as those operating in the sector of food are required to report the CO2 emission they generate. Opstal Logistics, a Dutch firm, is currently working on automating the delivery of this information to its customers employing approved calculation models such as that of the ISO model.

Reduced emissions

In addition to reports, Opstal Logistics is actively striving to cut down on emission. Simple things like the right tire pressure can be helpful, however the main focus is on vehicles. LNG cars are an possibility, however John thinks there’s a bigger future for electric automobiles. Hydrogen technology is still in its early stages and costly. However electric trucks that have capabilities of 600 kilometers can make trips to other countries possible.

Jan “We began with truck which had an 80-km range. Today, there are trucks which range from 500-600 km available that are available. After that, Paris will be within range of the Netherlands. Belgium offers plenty of charging infrastructure on its roads between Antwerp in addition to Ghent. France does not have as many. However, we’re in talks with our customers in Paris to determine whether they could install the charging station on their property.”

Making money through charging stations

Opstal Logistics is looking into the possibility of installing charging stations on client places, and if the stations run on green energy sources, could they be viable revenue models. The stations could provide the energy to transporters and allow trade emission allowances. The company has placed an order for its first electric vehicle, and is expecting them to be in place by the third quarter the next year. While they’re currently costlier than diesel trucks there are subsidies available and Germany has already provided toll exemptions in electric vehicles.

Future challenges and perspectives

Even with the increased costs, Opstal Logistics wants to move to electric vehicles and its customers do not have the financial capacity to spend more money for environmentally sustainable transport. John believes that this willingness to pay more will grow in the near future particularly if carbon dioxide emissions are cost-effective. Yet, unpredictable policies, such as the Dutch government’s announcement last week to cut subsidy for electric vehicles pose a challenge.

The efficiency of groupage and the effectiveness

Opstal Logistics has been using groupage since the beginning of time to cut down on CO2 emissions. The collaboration of multiple carriers with higher load factor will increase efficiency. In this case, collaboration and economies of scale are vital.

John believes that the future will be electronic John believes that the future is electric, and EU regulations are now beginning to confirm the idea. They include making electric vehicles just a bit longer and heavier than diesel vehicles, which is necessary for maintaining the same capacity for load. Opstal Logistics wants to be in the present and continues to invest in electric vehicles knowledge and expertise.

More information is available here:

Opstal Logistics

Boerhaeveweg 4

2408 AD Alphen aan den Rijn

Tel. : +31(0)10 333 0228

Tel. : +31(0)6 1468 0522

Email: [email protected]