TNT starts bio fuel pilot in India – a “Driving Clean” initiative to reduce carbon emissions

TNT, one of the world’s leading express companies, launched a pilot project in India to use bio fuel for its delivery vehicles. The initial phase will see specially trained drivers run three bio fuel trucks between Pune, Nasik and Bangalore, covering a total of 45,000 kilometres per month. Routes and driving times are optimized to further reduce carbon emissions. If the project proves efficient, TNT intends to expand it within its Indian fleet of vehicles.

Peter Bakker, Chief Executive Officer of TNT, said: “Environmental quality is a priority for TNT. More efficient and eco-friendly vehicles can help reduce the environmental impact of TNT’s fleet. We are also pleased to contribute to the Indian government’s bio fuel policy.”

The Indian government already promotes bio fuel trains for transporting passengers and freight. Close to 44 million hectares – equivalent to two-thirds of the Netherlands’ area – of degraded forest land are currently used in India for growing the vegetation needed for alternative fuel. Local farmers will benefit from growing bio fuel crops, which can be a new source of revenues and jobs.

TNT’s bio fuel pilot project in India is part of the company’s global “Driving Clean” initiative to improve its environmental performance. TNT is already using alternative fuels and technologies in a variety of pilot projects in the Netherlands, the UK, Germany and Australia.