DPD UK has welcomed the news that its parent company Geopost has become the first global parcel delivery company to have its CO2 emissions reduction targets validated by the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi).
SBTi provides companies with a clearly defined path to reduce emissions in line with the goals of the Paris Agreement. The SBTi has approved Geopost’s science-based reduction pathway following a review, after the company submitted its near and long-term targets in July 2022.
The landmark approval scientifically endorses Geopost’s plan to reach net-zero by 2040. DPD UK has confirmed that its operation is on track to achieve these targets and, where possible exceed them.
DPD UK is focusing on the rapid decarbonisation of its delivery fleet with 3,000 electric vehicles (EVs) already and plans for 4,000 by the end of 2023. By the end of this year, DPD will be delivering final mile to 30 major towns and cities in the UK using only EVs.
Additionally, 60% of DPD UK’s HGV fleet already runs on Gd+ HVO, an advanced hydrotreated vegetable oil fuel. The remaining vehicles will switch by the end of 2023, resulting in a 90% reduction in lifecycle greenhouse gas emissions across the company’s 1,600 HGVs.
DPD UK is also powered by 100% renewable electricity – only buying electricity from renewable sources – and DPD’s largest sortation facilities now run fully on solar power during the day.
Elaine Kerr, DPD UK CEO, said: “We are very proud indeed to be part of the first global parcel delivery group to have its CO2 emissions reduction targets approved by the SBTi. It is a clear endorsement of the wide-scale, science-based approach and the level of investment being made.
“We fully support the group-wide net-zero initiative and our own programme is key to reaching the overall target. In the UK we have already made giant steps towards a net-zero future and we will continue to work closely with our colleagues across Europe, to share best practice and insights as we progress towards our goals.”
In February, DPD UK completed the acquisition of zero-emission last mile courier company Absolutely, to further strengthen its same day delivery capabilities across the UK.
