GLS has received official approval from DEKRA that its methodology of calculating CO2 emissionsper parcel is in compliance with the new DIN EN 16258 European norm, introduced this month.
The new norm enables standardised calculation of CO2 and greenhouse gases for transportservices.
GLS stressed that it calculates CO2 emissions for customers on a voluntary basis as the newEuropean standard is not legally binding.
“The common calculation method is a useful component for achieving the goals of oursustainability initiative Think Green,” Klaus Conrad, Managing Director GLS Germany, said. “Thisway, we can evaluate the success of our activities more closely and better identify potentialsavings.”
What is special about the European norm is that it is specifically tailored to the logisticsindustry, GLS explained. Since it can be used for transportation services of all carriers, itcreates more comparability considering not only energy consumption and direct emissions of vehiclesbut also greenhouse gas emissions generated through fuel provision. Along with CO2, methane,nitrous oxide and fluorinated hydrocarbon are also taken into account for the calculation.
GLS has an environmental management system certified according to ISO 14001. Importantenvironmental indicators are collected and monitored on a regular basis. The company has alreadybeen applying the calculation method of DIN EN 16258 since 2011 based on the draft of the norm.
“To offer our customers environmentally friendly package logistics, we adjust ourselves tointernationally recognised standards,” Conrad said. “As part of Think Green, we are also committedto sustainability in every area of business – from transport planning and eco-depots toresource-saving behavior at the workplace.” The ThinkGreen service provides CO2-neutral parceldelivery for customers.
Last week, DPD announced its new CO2 calculator in compliance with the new norm. As anadditional service, the calculator now enables automatic calculation on the basis of the mandatoryregulations set to be imposed by the French government from October 2013. With the so-called Décret2011/1336, France will become the first country worldwide to oblige all logistics companies tocalculate and display their CO2 emissions.
The DIN EN 16258 norm was developed by the European Committee for Standardisation in Brussels,with the participation of experts from several countries.
