Transport Intelligence Global Freight Forwarding 2022 report shows that in 2021 the global forwarding market rebounded to exceed its pre-pandemic levels. According to the findings, the global freight forwarding market grew by 11.2% in 2021 and is forecast to grow by 5.7% in 2022. Market players must take decisive action to ensure that the sector continues to grow in line the EU’s binding targets to achieve climate neutrality by 2050 and the British government’s “Net Zero Strategy.”   

For several years now, transport and logistics companies have been introducing low-emission transportation solutions before formal regulations are imposed.  Investors and other stakeholders are calling upon these companies to take responsibility for excessively high greenhouse gas emissions. An increasing number of large businesses are preferentially or even exclusively choosing logistics partners who are eco-certified or who have environmentally friendly warehouses.

“For companies like AsstrA, at this point such initiatives are not only about environment but also economy. The recent increase energy costs, shortages of raw materials, and desire to diversify away from Russian gas have driven more interest in environmental solutions in the design of warehouses and logistics processes. Greater trade volumes will be supported and business will grow as such solutions are applied over time. Process optimization will help transport and logistics companies manage demand and efficiently adapt to the rapid changes and development That is why we have launched our ESG strategy (Environmental, Social and Corporate Governance) to guide framework of sustainable development in AsstrA,” says Dmitri Krõlov, Sustainable Development Manager at AsstrA-Associated Traffic AG.

“In light of anticipated legislation aimed at reducing emissions, the logistics industry has a lot of work to do. According to the UK government's assumptions, the new target will require to bring all greenhouse gas emissions to net zero by 2050. If this is really to happen, the logistics industry must take significant measures to reduce its negative impact on the environment today. Additional restrictions imposed on transport companies are not necessarily the only answer. Internal management initiatives are the key to success,” says Anna Smirnova, Head of AsstrA Industrial Project Logistics in the UK.

Supply chains are within the key focus. They account for a signify cant share of companies’ CO2 emissions and operating costs, and they are highly susceptible to climate change risks like natural disasters and rising temperatures. When choosing logistics service providers, businesses across multiple sectors are rethinking all their assessment criteria, from transport mode to warehousing capabilities.

“AsstrA’s approach to sustainable development has three pillars: sustainable business growth, social development and responsibility, and environmental protection. The company tracks its CO2 emissions and has plans to minimize its negative impact on the environment. We aim to reduce our CO2 footprint 25% by 2025 and 50% by 2030,” adds Dmitri Krõlov.