Energy Efficiency in Freight Transport 

It’s no secret that freight transport accounts for a significant portion of global greenhouse gas emissions. 

And it doesn’t just negatively impact the environment—it also affects operational costs. That’s why rethinking the way products are transported is an urgent necessity. 

Energy efficiency is no longer just a trend; it has become a necessity knocking on every company’s door. 

Why? Because by optimizing your fleet management and adopting cleaner technologies, you’re not only contributing to a more sustainable future but also reducing your fuel expenses. 

Want to learn how to cut costs, lower your environmental impact, and position yourself as an organization committed to sustainability? If your answer is yes, we invite you to keep reading. 

What is Energy Efficiency in Transportation? 

When we talk about energy efficiency, we’re referring to a concept that is gaining relevance in a world increasingly aware of environmental impact and the need to reduce operating costs. But what does this term really mean? 

Essentially, it’s the ability to move goods from one place to another using the least amount of energy possible. That is, maximizing fuel consumption or other energy sources to reduce environmental damage, lower costs, and improve performance. 

In other words, it’s about transporting more products while using less energy—and, in many cases, fewer financial resources. 

If you think about it for a moment, transportation is essential in daily life. From the truck delivering groceries to the supermarket to the ships crossing oceans with manufactured goods, everything depends on mobility. 

That’s why it is one of the most energy-consuming activities and one of the biggest contributors to greenhouse gas emissions. 

In fact, according to the International Energy Agency (IEA), the transport sector is responsible for nearly 24% of global CO₂ emissions. 

That’s why energy efficiency is not only crucial for environmental sustainability but also for business profitability. 

Which Mode of Freight Transport is the Most Polluting? 

When discussing freight transport, the inevitable question arises: which method generates the most pollution? This question is important not only for businesses looking to optimize their logistics operations but also for individuals wanting to help reduce their environmental footprint. 

Here’s the answer: 

• Road Transport. This includes trucks and heavy vehicles, making it one of the biggest greenhouse gas emitters. Several factors contribute to this, from the massive number of vehicles operating daily to their heavy reliance on fossil fuels like diesel. 

Every kilometer a truck travels while transporting goods generates CO₂ and other pollutants. While some companies are exploring more sustainable solutions, the sheer volume of transported goods makes it difficult to significantly reduce its environmental footprint in the short term. 

• Air Transport. Without a doubt, this is the fastest way to move goods over long distances—but that speed comes at a cost. Per ton transported, airplanes are the most polluting option. 

Although total emissions from air transport are lower than road transport due to fewer goods being moved by air, the emissions per kilogram of cargo are significantly higher. 

Additionally, because airplanes fly at high altitudes, the impact of their emitted gases is intensified, contributing to global warming. 

• Maritime Transport. As mentioned in other articles, this method is responsible for moving over 80% of global freight, which is why it is often called the "silent giant" of emissions. 

Ships produce large amounts of sulfur dioxide (SO₂), nitrogen oxides (NOₓ), and other pollutants that affect both the atmosphere and marine ecosystems. 

While stricter fuel regulations have been implemented in recent years, there is still a long way to go. 

• Rail Transport. Freight transport by rail falls somewhere in the middle in terms of pollution. While it depends heavily on available infrastructure, its impact is significantly lower compared to other methods. 

This is mainly because trains transport large volumes using relatively little energy—especially in countries where railway systems are electrified. 

How to Improve Energy Efficiency in the Transport Sector 

As concerns about sustainability continue to grow, companies are actively seeking ways to minimize their environmental impact and reduce operational costs. But how can this be achieved in such a dynamic sector as transportation? Here are some key recommendations: 

• Route Optimization. One of the first steps is to reduce travel distances, travel time, and fuel consumption. Thanks to today’s technology, this is easier than ever. Advanced navigation systems and other management tools allow businesses to plan routes that avoid congestion. 
• Fleet Renewal. Older vehicles consume more fuel and produce higher emissions compared to newer models. 

Investing in more efficient units is not only an environmentally friendly decision but also a smart long-term investment. 

Many companies are now opting for hybrid or electric vehicles, which consume less energy and can cover long distances with minimal fuel—or none at all, in the case of electric vehicles. 

• Use of Alternative Fuels. Diesel and gasoline have dominated transportation for decades, but the future of energy efficiency involves exploring other options. 

These include compressed natural gas (CNG), biogas, and even synthetic fuels that are currently being developed in laboratories worldwide. 

Hydrogen is also gaining traction as a clean and efficient energy source for heavy-duty freight vehicles. While its implementation is still in the early stages, technological advancements will soon make it a viable alternative. 

• Predictive Maintenance. Proper vehicle maintenance is key to ensuring optimal performance and minimizing energy consumption. 

This practice helps businesses anticipate mechanical failures by repairing or replacing components before they cause greater wear and tear. 

For example, an underinflated tire can increase fuel consumption by up to 5%—something that can easily be prevented through constant pressure monitoring. 

• Training and Awareness. People also play a crucial role in improving energy efficiency. Well-trained drivers can significantly enhance fuel efficiency. 

Eco-driving techniques, such as maintaining a constant speed, avoiding sudden acceleration or braking, and correctly using the vehicle’s gear system, contribute to reduced fuel consumption. 

Conclusion 



Ultimately, energy efficiency in freight transport is more than just optimizing resources—it’s a clear strategy for cutting costs, increasing competitiveness, and meeting growing sustainability demands. 

Companies that adopt more efficient practices are not only aligning with the expectations of an increasingly conscious market but also contributing to a more profitable and responsible future. 

However, change doesn’t happen overnight. It’s a continuous process that requires commitment, smart investments, and, most importantly, a strategic plan. 

This is where expert guidance makes a difference. The solutions are within your reach, and every step in the right direction brings you closer to a more agile and profitable operation. 

At KENSA Logistics, we stay up to date with the challenges and opportunities of improving energy efficiency in freight transport. 

Our team of specialists is ready to advise you and provide tailored solutions that will help optimize your operations, reduce costs, and meet your sustainability goals. 

Contact us today, and let’s start working together to transform the way your business moves its goods—making it more competitive and future-ready.