The EU Green Deal is reshaping logistics. From fleet and fuel to depot power and reporting, sustainability targets are now part of daily work. Early insight enables better planning, cost management and performance.
The Policies Shaping the Future of Logistics
Fit for 55The EU aims to cut emissions by 55% by 2030, with transport playing a central role. Set internal CO₂-per-tonne-kilometre targets and align route design, load consolidation and intermodal choices to meet them. Integrate these goals into KPIs and contracts to embed accountability.
AFIR (Alternative Fuels Infrastructure Regulation)
AFIR expands charging and hydrogen refuelling along Europe’s core corridors. Map freight lanes against published corridor plans and plan depot plus on-route charging or refuelling. Secure renewable electricity, install depot chargers and use smart scheduling to balance power demand.
CO₂ Standards for Heavy-Duty Vehicles
Manufacturers must cut average emissions for new trucks and buses, accelerating electric and hydrogen vehicle uptake. Move from pilots to a phased plan for zero-emission vehicles on predictable routes. Update operating models, costs and utilisation data to reflect the transition.
ETS and Fuel Carbon Pricing
The EU Emissions Trading System (ETS) is extending to more transport fuels, making carbon costs visible in energy bills and contracts. Add a carbon price line to lane-level cost models and review delivery windows, backhauls and consolidation to offset both cost and emissions.
CSRD (Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive)Many logistics firms now need to disclose verified climate and energy data. Standardise how you track fuel, electricity, kilometres, loads and emissions. Include site energy and renewable generation where relevant, and ensure supplier data is documented and consistent.
Skills and Training
Turning EU Green Deal goals into daily practice requires new skills. Teams need practical understanding of route electrification, depot energy planning, carbon accounting and audit-ready reporting.
The Innovating 4 Earth project supports this transition through open resources designed to help logistics professionals and educators build these skills. Explore the Starter Kit and Good Practice Compendium for practical examples, templates and case studies that show how to implement sustainable change
Starter Kit and Good Practice Compendium EN | Innovating 4 Earth