Social Research & Advocacy

Published, Fall 2005

Vroom! Vrooooooom!
Fall 2005

According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, commercial transportation accounts for one tenth of the U.S. greenhouse gas emissions from fossil fuel use. Given this, Walden has written to a number of companies, asking that they provide us with information about their programs and policies relating to the climate change impact of their commercial transport operations. BellSouth, Dell, Staples, and W.W. Grainger were the first to respond to our inquiries. Here’s what we’ve learned.

BellSouth wrote to Walden about its work to reduce fleet impacts by trending toward lighter, more fuel efficient vehicles and improving dispatch efficiency. The company is also testing the feasibility of utilizing hybrid pick-up trucks.

Dell partners with the EPA’s SmartWay certified shippers, and is working to shift away from higher impact air transport toward ground transport.

Grainger partners with UPS for 80 percent of its shipping. Grainger described UPS’ purchase of low emission vehicles, use of alternative fuels in its fleet, and commitment to decrease fuel use per package.

Staples has set a 7 percent greenhouse gas reduction goal from total operations for a 2001 baseline. Although the company leases its vehicles, it has put in place a number of energy use reduction mechanisms, including a non-idling policy, utilizing route optimization software, and encouraging new technology. It is also considering the use of hybrid technology for its city delivery trucks.
^__ M.Benton

The information provided in the above article is for historical purposes only. Such information may no longer be current and therefore should not be relied upon.

The information contained herein has been prepared from sources and data we believe to be reliable, but we make no guarantee as to its adequacy, accuracy, timeliness or completeness. We cannot and do not guarantee the suitability or profitability of any particular investment. No information herein is intended as an offer or solicitation of an offer to sell or buy, or as a sponsorship of any company, security, or fund. Neither Walden nor any of its contributors make any representations about the suitability of the information contained herein. Opinions expressed herein are subject to change without notice. The writings of authors do not necessarily represent the views of Walden Asset Management, its parent, or affiliated entities.