While more than half of companies (61%) in a recent survey acknowledged the importance of sustainability, just 37% actively monitor their emissions, according to results of a European Fleet Emission Monitor (EFEM) study by Alphabet, a Munich-based provider of business mobility solutions.

Moreover, the EFEM survey of more than 700 European fleet managers reveals 17% of responding companies had no knowledge of their fleet’s CO2 emissions, indicating that many companies may not be taking adequate measures to track and reduce their carbon footprint.

Monitoring Emissions

To achieve emissions targets, the Alphabet study analysis points out, companies must know their fleet’s CO2 emissions base line. However, almost a fifth of companies surveyed do not monitor their emissions at all. Companies that do not employ an adequate monitoring system use calculations based on fuel consumption data (48.3%), while another third rely on manufacturer data still collected in Excel spreadsheets (31.3%).

What’s needed, according to the study, is a “holistic tool” to measure and reduce CO2 emissions. Alphabet and an external partner are developing just such a CO2 tool to provide a clear snapshot of a fleet’s current standing and enabling fleet managers to make sustainable modifications while balancing economic efficiency.

Electrification Challenges

According to the survey, 69% of respondents believe their fleets eventually will be fully electrified, with 30% expecting their fleets to be completely petrol-and diesel-free within the next six to 10 years.

However, the survey also shows significant obstacles — cited by 94% of repondents — hamper the electrification process, including with driving range (38%) and charging infrastructure (36%) among the top concerns.

Mark Deusing, CEO Alphabet International, believes the survey is a “wake-up call for companies to take immediate action to reduce their emissions and adopt a more sustainable approach.” He emphasizes that “sustainabilty has gained a much higher signifcance indecision-making over the past couple of years, and success and sustainability need to be compatible.”