Aramex reveals 24% cut in fuel consumption in first carbon report

Aramex has cut its fuel consumption by nearly a quarter in the last five years despite 7% growth in its fleet, according to its first ever Carbon Footprint Report, out this week. The Middle Eastern logistics and transportation specialist published its Carbon Footprint Report for the year 2010, in line with its new long-term strategy to improve its environmental sustainability.

The report also highlights actions including improvement of internal processes that has saved 72 tons of paper.

Fadi Ghandour, Founder and CEO of Jordan-based Aramex, said the issuing of the report was another “strategic step” for his company working towards its commitment to minimise its environmental impact.

He said: “Our first carbon footprint report opens the door for regional corporations to follow suite, and facilitate transparent dialogue concerning corporate sustainable business practices, performance and commitments.”

In 2010, Aramex produced 28,617 tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent emissions from its use of fuel in the vehicle fleet, and just over 11,000 indirect carbon emissions, such as through its electricity consumption. A further 181,534 tonnes of emissions stemmed from other areas including use of express and freight transport.

According to its sustainability report, the company is working to reduce them by using more efficient vehicles and alternative technologies including 14 battery-powered scooters in Mumbai and hybrid scooters in Beirut. Around 74% of the Aramex fleet now complies with the EURO 4 emissions standard.

To cut its indirect emissions, the company is installing energy-efficient lighting systems and designing buildings to be more energy efficient.

for its express and freight consignments, the firm said it was actively working to use new technology and to promote the use of land transportation as an alternative to air and sea transport “as it is a significantly cleaner mode of transport”.

Raji Hattar, chief sustainability and compliance officer at Aramex said: “We will aim to make significant progress in minimizing our impact on the environment by introducing environmentally friendly services, adopting sustainable business practices and increasing carbon efficiency in our operations, with the aim of delivering our services with the least amount of impact on the environment.”

Listed on the Dubai Financial Market, Aramex started up in 1982 and now employs more than 9,000 people in 56 countries.