A6 transport portfolio framework to reduce carbon footprint Flashcards
What is a Transport Portfolio Framework (TPF)?
A decision-support tool that helps shippers optimize their transport system to reduce carbon footprint by improving modal split and load factor.
Why is reducing the carbon footprint in freight transport challenging?
Emissions from transportation have only marginally decreased, and freight transport accounts for a significant share of greenhouse gas emissions.
What are the two key variables in the TPF model?
Modal Split – The proportion of shipments using different transport modes (road, rail, sea).
Load Factor – The efficiency of how full transport vehicles are when operating.
How does modal split impact carbon emissions?
Higher road transport use → More emissions
Higher intermodal transport (rail/sea) → Lower emissions
Shifting to intermodal transport is a key strategy to reduce the carbon footprint.
What is load factor, and why is it important?
Load factor measures how much capacity in a vehicle is utilized. Higher load factors mean fewer vehicles are needed, reducing emissions.
Example: A truck filled to 90% capacity is more efficient than two half-empty trucks.
What are the three steps in applying the Transport Portfolio Framework?
Classification – Identify product flow characteristics (PFCs) that influence transport efficiency.
Categorization – Group shipments into barriers (inefficiencies) and enablers (opportunities).
Action Planning – Implement strategies to shift transport modes or improve load factors.
What are Product Flow Characteristics (PFCs), and why do they matter?
PFCs describe factors like shipment size, distance, and product type that affect transport efficiency.
How can companies improve modal split using the TPF?
Shift long-distance transport from road to rail/sea.
Use horizontal collaboration (sharing logistics with other companies).
Improve scheduling to match available intermodal options.
How can companies increase load factor using the TPF?
Consolidate shipments to reduce empty running.
Improve route planning for better vehicle utilization.
Encourage suppliers to send full truckloads instead of smaller, frequent shipments.
What are some barriers to reducing the carbon footprint in transport?
Short transport distances → Less opportunity for intermodal shifts.
Temperature-sensitive products → Harder to consolidate loads.
High variability in shipment sizes → Difficult to optimize load factors.
What decision-making insights does the TPF provide for shippers?
Helps structure complex logistics decisions.
Identifies high-impact areas for reducing emissions.
Supports strategic transport planning by showing where improvements are possible.
