Fashion retailer Primark is to reduce the environmental impact of its logistics operations with the introduction of 15 Longer Semi Trailers (LSTs).
Each trailer has the capacity to carry twice as much stock as those currently in service with the potential to cut 1,600 trailer journeys a year.
The company estimates this would equate to more than 452,000 fewer miles being travelled each year and a cumulative saving of some 680 tonnes of CO2.
Manufactured in the UK by Don Bur (Bodies & Trailers) and arranged in partnership with DHL Supply Chain, each trailer is 15.65 metres long, has two decks and is designed to carry larger volumes of both hanging garments and palletised products to Primark depots across the UK.
The order marks the next phase in the retailer’s carbon reduction strategy and will be supported by the delivery of 10 new Iveco tractor units powered by liquified natural gas (LNG).
Primark estimates the tractor units will cut CO2 emissions by around 15% compared to diesel alternatives and will also deliver a 60% reduction in nitrogen oxide emissions.
Ian Hicks, Head of Transport at Primark, said, “We have been working hard for many years to reduce the environmental impact of our logistics operations and we are delighted to take this next step in boosting the sustainability of our transport model. These new trailers have double the capacity of standard trailers and will significantly reduce our transport emissions in the UK.”
Earlier this year TNB reported on the results of a long-term Department for Transport review of LSTs on UK roads.
It found that the use of LSTs resulted in 365,000 fewer journeys being made during the seven-year study period, saving an estimated 37,000 tonnes of carbon dioxide (CO2) and 187 tonnes of nitrogen oxide (NOx).
It also concluded there was a significant economic benefit to operators, who are able to make big savings by delivering more goods in fewer journeys. Additionally, LSTs had 55% fewer collisions compared to the HGV average.
