The transport sector stands at a pivotal juncture. Globally, it contributes nearly 20% of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, positioning it as one of the largest contributors to climate change. For companies operating logistics, delivery, or mobility fleets, this presents both a challenge and an opportunity: how can you decarbonise fleet operations while remaining compliant and operationally efficient?

The answer lies in clean transport solutions - a growing suite of technologies and strategies designed to reduce fleet emissions and support regulatory compliance. From biomethane-powered vehicles and biotickets to electrification and data-led optimisation, businesses now have more tools than ever to lower their carbon footprint without sacrificing performance.

This article explores how these solutions function, the influence of regulation, and how businesses can overcome adoption barriers to gain a competitive edge - with the support of AFS Energy.

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The Role of Clean Transport in Compliance and Decarbonisation

Clean transport is no longer just a sustainability trend - it is fast becoming a regulatory requirement. Governments and jurisdictions worldwide are enacting stringent decarbonisation targets for mobility, compelling companies to rethink how their fleets operate.

Key Drivers of Clean Fleet Adoption:

• Regulatory Mandates: Across Europe and North America, emissions standards are tightening. The EU Renewable Energy Directive II (RED II), for example, mandates increased use of advanced biofuels - such as biomethane - in transport fuel mixes.
• Scope 1 Emissions Accountability: Fleet operations are often a significant contributor to an organisation’s Scope 1 emissions, i.e. emissions generated directly from owned or controlled sources. Reducing these is essential for compliance with schemes such as EU ETS, CSRD, and other international frameworks.
• Stakeholder Expectations: Investors, customers, and employees increasingly demand visible climate action. Decarbonising transport is one of the most tangible and impactful ways to demonstrate a company’s commitment to sustainability.

By adopting clean transport strategies, businesses not only ensure compliance but also progress their wider ESG goals.

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Clean Transport Solutions for Emissions Compliance

A wide range of technologies and instruments are now available to help reduce transport emissions while enhancing operational efficiency.

Biomethane: A Scalable Alternative to Diesel

Biomethane - a renewable gas produced from organic waste - offers one of the most practical and scalable replacements for diesel in heavy goods vehicles.

Key Benefits:

• Up to 90% lower lifecycle GHG emissions than diesel
• Compatible with existing CNG (Compressed Natural Gas) and LNG (Liquefied Natural Gas) infrastructure
• Allows rapid fleet transition without replacing entire vehicle inventories
• Supports circular economy principles by turning waste into energy

AFS Energy assists businesses in sourcing high-quality biomethane and managing the necessary certifications for compliance.

Biotickets: Verifiable Emission Reduction Instruments

Biotickets - also known as biofuel certificates - provide documented proof of renewable fuel usage in transport operations.

Their Benefits Include:

• Regulatory Alignment: Biotickets offer verified documentation that fuel use meets emissions targets and legal mandates.
• Emission Offsetting: In regions where immediate fuel switching is impractical, biotickets enable companies to support renewable fuels and reduce their reported emissions.

In the Netherlands, for instance, fuel suppliers must blend a specified proportion of renewable fuels. Businesses using biomethane or similar fuels earn biotickets, which can be traded or used to satisfy compliance requirements.

Electrification: The Zero-Emission Option

Electric vehicles (EVs) are gaining traction, particularly for urban logistics and short-haul transport. They provide:

• Zero tailpipe emissions
• Lower fuel and maintenance costs
• Access to government incentives such as grants and tax relief

As charging infrastructure expands and battery technology improves, EV adoption is growing swiftly - especially among last-mile delivery and urban fleet operators.

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Overcoming Challenges in Clean Transport Adoption

While the shift to clean transport presents challenges, these can be managed with the right support and strategy.

Upfront Investment and Capital Costs

EVs and biomethane-capable trucks often come with higher initial costs. However:

• Government subsidies, tax credits, and financial incentives help to offset these investments
• The Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) is typically lower over the vehicle’s lifetime, thanks to savings in fuel and maintenance

AFS Energy helps clients model these financials and identify available subsidies, strengthening the business case for clean transport.

Infrastructure Limitations

Limited access to biomethane refuelling stations or EV charging points can delay deployment - particularly in specific regions.

Solutions Include:

• Partnering with suppliers like OG Clean Fuels
• Co-developing on-site or shared refuelling infrastructure
• Planning fleet routes strategically around access to clean fuel facilities

Operational Integration and Reporting

Integrating clean transport into existing fleet systems requires coordination across departments - logistics, finance, sustainability, and procurement.

AFS Energy streamlines this process with:

• Digital emissions tracking platforms
• Certificate management systems
• Training and advisory services to align teams and processes

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Maximising Impact with AFS Energy's Expertise

AFS Energy offers end-to-end support for businesses transitioning to clean transport. Whether implementing electric fleets, adopting biomethane, or managing biotickets, AFS ensures your strategy is compliant, cost-effective, and impact-driven.

Core Services Include:

• Compliance and Certification: Support with RED II, CSRD, EU ETS, and national renewable fuel obligations
• Bioticket Management: Full lifecycle assistance - from acquisition to trading and reporting
• Digital Emissions Tracking: Via the AFS Energy Client Portal, monitor Scope 1 emissions, evaluate fleet performance, and automate reporting
• Carbon Strategy Alignment: Integrate clean transport into your broader net-zero roadmap and ESG priorities

With an integrated approach, AFS helps turn clean transport into a strategic business advantage.

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Clean Transport for a Compliant and Sustainable Future

As companies accelerate decarbonisation to meet evolving regulatory and stakeholder demands, clean transport solutions provide a practical, powerful path forward. Whether through biomethane, biotickets, or electrification, these tools empower businesses to reduce emissions, enhance brand credibility, and prepare for a carbon-conscious future.

The journey may be complex, but with the right partner, it is entirely achievable.

With AFS Energy’s expert guidance, you can transform your sustainability ambitions into a strategic asset, driving long-term resilience and competitive advantage in a changing world.