Celebrating Earth Day: A Long-Standing Commitment to Sustainability

Post Date - Apr 19, 2025

As Earth Day approaches, it's the perfect time to reflect on the environmental choices we make and their lasting impact on the planet. Sustainability isn’t just a buzzword; it’s a responsibility we all share. In an industry where the carbon footprint can be large, it's clear that progress is necessary—and meaningful. But how do we create real change? By embracing innovation, taking daily action, and constantly evolving. It’s not enough to say we care about the planet; we have to prove it with measurable results. And for those leading the charge, change isn’t just something they aim for—it's a continuous journey.

A Track Record of Environmental Impact

For over two decades, we’ve been dedicated to minimizing environmental impact through initiatives aimed at reducing waste, conserving energy, and decreasing emissions. Our commitment has been recognized in multiple ways, including earning the EcoVadis Committed Badge. This recognition reflects the dedication to sustainability that has been integral to us for years.

Additionally, we’re proud to be a founding member of the SmartWay® program, an initiative by the Environmental Protection Agency that works to reduce transportation-related emissions. This program has helped to drastically reduce emissions and improve fuel efficiency, proving that environmental responsibility and operational success can go hand in hand.

Our Sustainable Milestones Include:

• A 36% reduction in carbon dioxide emissions.
• 84% reduction in nitrogen oxide emissions.
• 5.4 million gallons of diesel fuel saved.

These figures reflect real progress, but they’re just the beginning. Sustainability is a journey, and each year brings new challenges and opportunities for improvement.

Measurable Steps Toward a Greener Future

We take a comprehensive approach to sustainability, with a focus on both reducing emissions and conserving resources. Here are just a few ways we’re actively making a difference:

1. Fuel Efficiency & Emissions Reductions: Through cutting-edge technology, we’ve improved fuel economy by optimizing routes and using energy-efficient equipment. Our tire inflation system alone is projected to eliminate 12.7 million pounds of CO2 annually. We also use electric forklifts and aerodynamic skirts on trailers, further reducing our carbon footprint by millions of pounds every year.

1. Energy Savings Through Smart Technology: From LED lighting in our facilities to auxiliary power units that reduce fuel use during engine idling, we’ve found countless ways to conserve energy. These improvements have resulted in savings of more than 14 million KWH in lighting and 2.84 million gallons of fuel annually.

1. Innovative Transportation Practices: By using tools like the Roadnet optimization software, we’ve reduced unnecessary travel miles by 30%, ensuring more efficient routes. Our efforts also extend to the trucks themselves, where we use ultra-low-sulfur diesel to reduce particulate matter and nitrogen oxide emissions. One hundred percent of our trucks are equipped with the latest technology to maximize fuel economy and reduce harmful emissions.

1. Waste Not: Recycling & Repurposing: We’ve taken steps to minimize waste by recycling materials like oil—90,994 gallons of oil have been repurposed since we began tracking. Additionally, our tires are repaired and repurposed, which helps reduce landfill waste. Even old uniform items are donated to a charitable organization that provides them to those in need. Through these efforts, we’re ensuring that more materials find a second life rather than contributing to environmental degradation.

A Commitment to Innovation

We recognize that the work is far from complete. Every decision made today shapes the world of tomorrow, and we are continually striving to find new ways to improve. Innovation is key. Whether it's through pioneering new processes, embracing green technology, or advocating for sustainable practices across the industry, we are dedicated to pushing the boundaries of what’s possible.

We’re also working alongside universities, logistics centers, and industry experts to identify even more effective methods for reducing energy consumption and emissions. Sustainability isn’t a one-time goal—it’s a path we’re committed to walking every single day.

Looking Toward the Future

Earth Day is a reminder of what we stand to lose if we don’t act now and an opportunity to celebrate the progress we've made, big or small. As we continue to innovate and advance our sustainability goals, we’re proud of our progress and excited about the future. A cleaner, greener tomorrow is possible, and we’re committed to making it a reality every day.

As our chairman and CEO, Gary Sasser, says, "We will do everything in our power to protect this precious planet we all call home." This commitment goes beyond reducing emissions and conserving energy; it’s about ensuring the planet remains healthy for future generations.

As Earth Day approaches, let’s reflect on the impact of our actions—not just today, but for the legacy we leave behind.