Taking responsibility for the environment is an important task most industries are facing today, and the transportation industry is no exception. Many logistic companies are choosing feasible solutions to make the world of transportation a cleaner, greener place. As these industries implement new environmental policies and strive for a cleaner future, intermodal transportation provides a more sustainable way to attain this goal. Intermodal transport significantly reduces a shipper’s carbon footprint while delivering a more systematic way to move the supply chain. Furthermore, there are numerous environmental advantages of intermodal transportation. Read on to learn more!
Intermodal Fuel Efficiency
While intermodal transport relies on short-haul trucking for first and last-mile service, the long haul is almost exclusively ship and rail. In addition, modern locomotives have improved the efficiency of rail transportation. While they reduce nitrogen and harmful emissions, they also have numerous fuel-saving features that help railroads maximize efficiency. On top of that, one train can move an average of 280 trucks! These are fundamental ways intermodal transport positively affects fuel efficiency, not only because of its sustainability, but also because of its cost-effectiveness.
Reducing Air Pollution
Intermodal transportation uses many forms of passage, which reduces air pollution. Primarily, trains and ships are used to move freight for the most extended portions of the shipment, and trucks are used for shorter distances. This method reduces fuel use when exporting goods from one place to another. While trucks are required for at least one segment of every shipment, this tactic optimizes fuel efficiency and reduces road traffic! In addition, it produces less greenhouse gas and carbon pollution while these goods are shipped from one part of the world to another. One single freight train can replace several hundred trucks, frees up space on the highway, and reduces highway wear and tear on roadways.
Eco-friendly Modes of Transportation
Using steel and aluminum for standardized shipping containers provides an excellent way for eco-friendly intermodal transportation. The containers fit together perfectly, so the storage capacity of each journey can increase to carry the most cargo! These shipping containers are durable, used for years, and cost-efficient. In addition, the standardized design saves time during the unloading and loading process.
Intercontinental shipments through cargo ships provide another great way to carry large volumes of freight in shipping containers. The spacious containers reduce the need for additional trips and improve efficiencies during the port processes.
Environmentally friendly logistic solutions require creativity and flexibility, and the demand is urgently growing as the world looks towards a greener future. Intermodal transportation certainly fits the bill to help. There are many opportunities to enhance efficiencies while creating new techniques to increase sustainability in the intermodal transport sector. Reducing fuel, diminishing traffic congestion, and using eco-friendly materials create a better future for the world of intermodal transportation. All companies in the transport industry need to challenge traditional solutions with smarter ones! Be willing to try these new techniques when moving goods and start implementing them today.