Researchers at the Mineta Transportation Institute have found communities looking to reduce greenhouse gas emissions (GHG) must focus on emissions from freight as a major contributor.
According to a new study, “Routes to Lower Greenhouse Gas Emissions from Freight Transportation in the City of San José,” while emissions from freight represent an estimated 30 percent of the greenhouse gas emissions attributed to the transportation industry in the United States, freight plans developed by local and regional governmental agencies looking at more sustainable freight systems fail to put enough emphasis on freight emission reduction strategies.
The study looked at the current strategies for San Jose, Calif., and its plans to reduce GHG emissions. After conducting a geospatial analysis of freight data within the city, the researchers analyzed relevant literature and successful freight reduction strategies implemented worldwide.
To reduce GHG emissions from freight, the researchers said, organizations should manage freight demand and address consumer expectations; use low emission modes for freight; optimize assets and environmental resources; focus on the last mile; deploy alternative sources of fuel and energy efficiency measures; engage stakeholders and explore collaborative opportunities and develop a data-sharing platform, which should include data-sharing protocols and standards.
“Greenhouse gas emissions, like those from freight transportation, contribute to air pollutants that are detrimental to human and environmental health,” the authors explained. “Focusing on emission reduction benefits our industry and our communities.”
Researchers said that while the study focuses on one city, the lessons learned from the study could be applied to other cities and regions.