Greener Logistics Doesn’t Have To Cost The Earth

The most recent assessment of global warming paints a truly terrifying picture. Earlier this summer, 60 of the world’s leading climate scientists revealed the Earth could breach the symbolic 1.5C warming limit in as little as three years, if we continue to produce the current levels of carbon dioxide emissions.

Despite almost 200 countries committing to limit global temperature rises to 1.5C over late 19th century levels back in 2015, many have continued to burn record amounts of fossil fuels, as well as chopping down vast forests – putting the international target at significant risk.

There’s no denying that the logistics sector has a huge role to play in helping to cut emissions on a global scale – both on the road and off it. In July, a new report from Inverto revealed that the number of electric commercial vehicles on the UK’s roads jumped by almost a third from 2023 to 2024. However, the majority of those were light commercial vehicles, and, in fact, there were just 1,271 electric HGVs in 2024 (up from 992 in 2023).

Whilst, admittedly, the investment required to switch to a fleet of electric vehicles is substantial, there are plenty of cost-effective changes that any business operating warehouses and supply chains should be looking to make. This includes efficient lighting systems, the installation of solar panels, the introduction of electric forklifts and pallet jacks, and rainwater harvesting, to name but a few.

Another simple change that’s helping to reduce carbon emissions and waste in supply chains is the switch from wooden pallets to plastic. With a typical lifespan of over ten years, plastic pallets last far longer than timber alternatives and are less prone to breakages, meaning fewer repairs and replacements are needed. They’re also fully recyclable at the end of their working life, making them part of a genuine circular economy. Crucially, they reduce demand for timber and help prevent deforestation – a key priority in the fight against climate change. Unlike wood, they don’t absorb moisture or harbour mould, and they won’t splinter or shed debris. Stronger, lighter, and more consistent in shape, plastic pallets are easier to handle, better suited to automated systems, and more efficient to move, which can lead to fewer vehicle movements and lower emissions. In the first half of 2025, we have seen a growth in enquiries from companies looking to make the switch, who have cited sustainability as their main reason for doing so.

We also offer a comprehensive recycling scheme that gives businesses an easy and responsible way to close the loop. Since 2019, we have been collecting used plastic pallets and boxes at the end of their working life and transporting them to our specialist recycling facility in Belgium. This scheme is open to all plastic pallets, not just those supplied by goplasticpallets.com, making it a genuinely inclusive offer for the wider industry.

This service has gone from strength to strength, and earlier this year we surpassed the 2,000-tonne milestone, which is down to the tremendous dedication shown by our team, our customers, and our partners. It is worth noting that the majority of this recycled plastic comprises first-generation pallets and boxes, initially introduced years ago. Today’s advanced pallets have significantly improved lifespans, further extending their sustainability benefits.

Right across any operation, businesses should be looking to make practical changes that help reduce the impact our industry is having on the planet. The environmental savings from switching from wooden to plastic pallets may not be as headline-grabbing as a new fleet of electric HGVs, but they’re immediate, measurable and, crucially, affordable.