Transport is fundamental to the global economy, but it is also one of the largest contributors to climate change. It accounts for nearly 20% of global greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, with road-based fleets representing a significant share. As companies strive to meet ambitious climate targets, fleet decarbonisation has become a central focus of the sustainability agenda.

The challenge? Reducing emissions without sacrificing operational efficiency or profitability. The good news is that clean transport solutions - from biomethane and biotickets to electrification and data-driven tools - are making it increasingly possible to align environmental responsibility with business performance.

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The Growing Urgency for Clean Transport

Fleet Emissions Under Scrutiny

Heavy-duty diesel lorries and vans are disproportionate contributors to transport-related emissions. In addition to CO₂, they emit pollutants such as nitrogen oxides (NOₓ) and particulate matter, which degrade air quality and public health, particularly in urban areas. As pressure mounts from regulators, consumers, and investors, the dominance of fossil fuel-powered fleets is waning.

Tightening Regulations and Market Forces

Governments across the globe are setting stricter emissions targets and mandating cleaner mobility:

• The European Green Deal aims for a 90% reduction in transport emissions by 2050.
• Cities throughout Europe and North America are introducing Low Emission Zones (LEZs) to restrict high-emission vehicles.
• Regulatory frameworks such as the EU Renewable Energy Directive II (RED II) mandate the use of advanced biofuels, including biomethane.

Simultaneously, stakeholders are rewarding companies that take tangible climate action. Clean transport is no longer optional - it’s a competitive imperative.

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Biomethane and Biotickets: Scalable Solutions for Fleets

Among the available clean transport technologies, biomethane and biotickets are two of the most scalable and cost-effective options.

Biomethane - a renewable fuel derived from organic waste such as agricultural residues, food waste, and landfill gas - is produced through anaerobic digestion. Because it is chemically similar to natural gas, it can be used in existing CNG (Compressed Natural Gas) and LNG (Liquefied Natural Gas) vehicles and fuelling infrastructure.

Key Benefits of Biomethane:

• Up to 90% reduction in GHG emissions compared to diesel
• Negative emissions potential when produced from manure-based feedstock
• Supports the circular economy by turning waste into energy
• Fully compatible with current fuelling networks and vehicle technology

Case Study – Scania, Sweden

In Sweden, truck manufacturer Scania has introduced a full range of heavy-duty vehicles powered by CNG and LNG. These are enabling logistics operators to cut emissions and fuel costs without compromising on performance or payload. Alongside such advances, biotickets provide a flexible, verifiable method to support decarbonisation in the transport sector.

Biotickets (also known as biofuel certificates) are tradable instruments that certify the use of renewable fuels in transport. They allow companies and fuel suppliers to meet biofuel blending obligations without the need for immediate fleet conversion.

Why Biotickets Matter:

• Recognise and document the use of renewable fuels
• Allow participation in regulated biofuel markets
• Enable flexible decarbonisation where direct fuel switching is limited
• Support compliance under RED II and other schemes

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Electrification: Zero-Emission Urban Transport

While biomethane is well suited to long-distance and heavy-duty operations, electric vehicles (EVs) offer considerable advantages for urban and short-haul logistics.

With improved battery technology and expanding charging infrastructure, EVs are becoming an increasingly practical choice for businesses operating in cities and Low Emission Zones.

Advantages of Electric Fleets:

• Zero tailpipe emissions, aiding clean air and net-zero targets
• Lower operating costs due to cheaper electricity and reduced maintenance
• Enhanced driver experience - quiet, smooth rides
• Access to grants, tax incentives, and regulatory benefits

Although challenges remain - such as high upfront vehicle costs, limited charging infrastructure, and battery range - continued investment and supportive policy are making electric fleets more accessible and scalable.

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Operational Efficiency Gains Through Clean Transport

Beyond environmental benefits, clean transport solutions also deliver significant operational and financial advantages.

Fuel and Maintenance Savings

• Electricity is generally more affordable than diesel per kilometre.
• Biomethane adoption is often supported by government fuel subsidies.
• EVs require less maintenance than internal combustion engines, reducing breakdowns and extending vehicle lifespan.

These benefits lead to lower operating costs, reduced budget volatility, and a higher return on investment.

Digital Fleet Management

Many clean transport systems integrate seamlessly with fleet management software, offering:

• Real-time vehicle tracking
• Predictive maintenance alerts
• Optimised routing to reduce idling and improve efficiency

Such tools help reduce fuel usage, emissions, and operational inefficiencies while increasing fleet productivity.

Access to Incentives and Carbon Credits

Businesses adopting clean transport can access:

• Green financing
• Carbon credit programmes
• Government incentives

These financial benefits support a more sustainable transition in the long term.

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How AFS Energy Supports Clean Transport Transitions

Shifting to clean transport across multiple geographies can be complex. AFS Energy offers end-to-end support to make the process smoother and more strategic.

AFS Energy Services:

• Trading of renewable fuels (Biomethane, Bio-CNG, Bio-LNG)
• Bioticket certification and strategy development
• Carbon offsetting options
• Regulatory reporting via the AFS Client Portal

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Clean Transport as a Strategic Advantage

Fleet decarbonisation is no longer a distant ambition - it is an immediate business priority. Fortunately, proven solutions such as biomethane, biotickets, and electrification are available and already delivering results.

By embracing clean transport, businesses can:

• Significantly reduce carbon emissions
• Enhance operational performance
• Strengthen ESG credentials
• Build resilience against evolving regulatory demands

Sustainability need not compromise efficiency - in many cases, it improves it. With expert guidance from AFS Energy, organisations can turn their decarbonisation goals into a long-term strategic advantage, securing their success in a changing world.