We have been family owned at KNP Logistics since 1865 and are profoundly aware of the environmental impacts of the logistics industry. The industry faces a huge test to decarbonise, and we are up for the challenge that faces us all.

We appreciate, much like the logistics industry, the solutions being developed to help climate change are moving rapidly as we approach the UK’s 2050 net zero targets. We are committed to continually reviewing and changing to make sure we meet our sustainability and our customers’ sustainability targets

Continuous Fleet Renewal Policy – With every regulation change in vehicle manufacturing that improves product emission levels – we move forwards. Over 98% of our current fleet of 400 HGVs are Euro VI . The remaining 1.7% of Euro V vehicles are planned to be replaced by new Euro VI engine vehicles. This limits our impact we have on the air quality of the areas we deliver to, reducing Nitrous Oxide (NO_X) and Particulate (PM) emissions.

Over 95% of the company emissions are related to the diesel burnt in the Heavy Goods Vehicles. All methods of improving our fuel consumption of our latest engine technology ICEs, contribute directly to reducing our emissions, and it is paramount that we explore all options. Drag, caused by the aerodynamic properties of the vehicles, creates air resistance meaning more fuel is burnt per mile.

At KNP we use multiple methods of improving the aerodynamics of our HGVs and trailers to ensure we are minimising emissions where possible. All new trailers are fitted with rear roof air diffusers, rounded underrun bars, and filled side underrun protective bars. And all new tractor units are fitted with the OEM standard aerodynamic kits, and matched up to appropriate height trailers for the spoiler.

We believe that EVs have a part to play across different parts of our business, to reduce our emissions and our energy usage.

We currently have an electric only new company car policy, replacing diesel and petrol vehicles when possible.

We have our first Electric Van used by our facilities team, with plans being put in place to electrify our current van distribution operation. Each mile done with an EV van as opposed to a standard diesel releases 3 times less emissions on the road at the Grid’s current carbon intensity.

Using telematics derived information, we have a team of driver trainers circling our depots, to assist with lower scoring drivers to help them improve.

Our initiative aim is to firstly make sure our drivers are as safe as possible on the roads. Secondly, smoother driving improves fuel efficiency, reducing our overall emissions.

Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil (HVO) Biodiesel – for every litre of HVO Biodiesel used in a HGV, up to 95% of the emissions are reduced in combustion. HVO Biodiesel is made from waste materials in the food chain, such as plant waste. This drives a much more circular economy than traditional fuels using waste as a primary raw material source. KNP Logistics Group have been deploying HVO Biodiesel as an emission reducing initiative with several contract logistics clients. Following this successful implementation, KNP Logistics Group is gearing up to use HVO Biodiesel in our Luton depot for deliveries in and around London, where reducing emissions and improving air quality can have a real, tangible impact.

Longer Semi Trailer (LST) Trial – from 2014, KNP Logistics Group has been part of the LST Trial utilising a fleet of 40 LSTs for trunking operations. The LST trial allows for trailers 15% longer up to 15.65m long, allowing up to 4 pallets on a single deck trailer and 8 pallets on a double deck trailer. On average, an LST in use removes 1 in 12 journeys due to the extra space for freight, meaning fewer miles required, and reduced emissions. The trial across the UK has saved over 50,000 tonnes of greenhouse gas emissions.