Downstream transportation is one of the main sources of scope 3 emission of Holcim, one of the world’s largest cement manufacturers. On its net zero journey the company aims to reduce its scope 3 emissions related to transportation and fuels by 20% in 2030 compared to the 2020 baseline of 29 million tons/CO2. Holcim developed a Transport Analytics Centre enabling to identify possible improvements in productivity, communication and safety using data transportation.

The company focused on optimizing the transport network and reducing the intrinsic emissions of the vehicles.

A Network Optimization Modelling Tool has been deployed to identify optimized transport network by using waterways and rails instead of road. In parallel, route optimizer tools have been deployed supporting the operational decisions to reduce the distances travelled as well as the fuel used on road. The center also integrates in-vehicle monitoring systems into trucks and correlates data with other sources, such as ordering and dispatching systems. This enables the company to individually track and monitor truck utilization, routes and driver behavior, leading to improved efficiency, safety and sustainability.

To reduce the vehicle emissions based on the data obtained, the company partnered with suppliers that propose electric trucks or trucks using natural gas (LNG/CNG). The company also started to train their own and third parties’ drivers to drive safely and efficiently, hence helping to reduce fuel consumption by 3% to 6%. In addition, the fuel is purchased in local markets and transported using environmentally friendly inbound means.