Our industry, through its long history, has navigated countless transitions. From the dawn of settled life and agriculture to pivotal inventions like the wheel and the sail, our roots trace back thousands of years. Over time, innovations such as the domestication of animals and the advent of the steam engine transformed our operations. Each stride forward brought both challenges and new opportunities. Today, we stand on the cusp of yet another significant transition: electrification – a shift away from fossil fuels in favour of more sustainable means of transporting goods.

The transportation industry’s global impact is undeniable, and the significant carbon emissions it generates pose a grave threat to our climate. This demands immediate and collective action. The transition to zero-emission transport is not just a responsibility; it’s a necessity that will shape the future of our society.

Ziegler has successfully navigated many transitions in our 116-year history. We initially relied on horse-drawn carriages for transport. Our entire infrastructure revolved around horses, with horse boxes, corral fencing, veterinarians, and coachmen being essential. The introduction of diesel trucks, however, marked a seismic shift. These trucks offered speed, efficiency, and endurance far surpassing that of horse-drawn carriages. We adapted swiftly, transitioning from coachmen to drivers, veterinarians to mechanics, and horse boxes to garages. This transformation reshaped the transport industry, and Ziegler emerged stronger and more resilient than ever from that period.

Our Sustainability Report articulates why sustainability is paramount to us, outlines our plans based on stakeholder feedback, and reveals our strategy for navigating the ongoing transition to a greener future. Safeguarding our legacy for future generations requires us to adapt, evolve, and thrive in an ever-changing landscape.

We warmly invite you to explore our 2024 Sustainability Report, a testament to our commitment to a more sustainable future. We encourage you not only to read but also to actively engage with the report, as your insights and feedback are invaluable in our journey towards a greener future. Together, we can make a significant impact.

A dedicated team of aerospace transport specialists within the Ziegler Group is poised to meet the needs of the aerospace industry. Our team collaborates closely with clients, providing bespoke solutions to address your specific logistical requirements and ensure smooth operations.

Handling both regular shipments and AOG (Aircraft On Ground) shipments is a primary responsibility of Ziegler Group’s specialised team. AOG shipments are of utmost importance, involving the urgent delivery of aircraft parts to minimise downtime. We ensure timely transportation of vital components, aiding airlines in swiftly returning their grounded aircraft to service.

Nighttime customs clearance, facilitated by a special agreement with the airport’s customs service, enhances service efficiency. This agreement allows the clearance of essential aerospace components even during nighttime hours, not only expediting the entire process but also minimising delays for AOG shipments, thereby reducing downtime for airlines.

AOG Recovery Solutions

Whether you require short-term or long-term storage, rest assured that your assets will be kept safely with us. Our warehouses are designed to accommodate a wide variety of aircraft elements, and our staff takes all necessary measures to ensure proper care and handling of each item.

Timely delivery of spare parts to sustain your operations. With our ability to deliver parts directly by air, we guarantee fast response times and reliable service. We’ve established efficient logistics systems to minimise delays, and our well-coordinated delivery process ensures that your operations can proceed seamlessly under any circumstances.

Handling your customs clearance can be a lengthy and challenging process, but our AOG recovery solutions include a clearance service. We’ve forged a special agreement with customs, allowing us to expedite the clearance of your goods. This close relationship with customs authorities enables us to accelerate shipments and avoid delays, ensuring smooth delivery of necessary parts and components.

Our 24/7 service ensures we are always available to meet your needs, regardless of the hour. Whether it’s an inquiry, shipment tracking, or an urgent request, our knowledgeable and experienced staff is ready to assist. With their in-depth expertise, they provide a reliable and efficient service, allowing your operations to continue uninterrupted at any time of the day.

Onboard Transport Services

Accelerated delivery for your urgent shipments is available through our onboard carrier services, providing the fastest delivery solution. We ensure that your urgent or high-value shipments reach their destination as quickly as possible by leveraging qualified global specialists and air freight companies. Ziegler Group offers a 24/7, 365-days-a-year service, swiftly responding to any Aircraft On Ground (AOG) situation.

Our onboard transport service is designed to minimise the time an aircraft spends on the ground.

Our onboard transport services serve as a valuable tool to shorten response times and restore operations in the aviation sector, especially in highly trafficked hubs.

With a confident, competent, and clear approach, we strive to make things simple, efficient, and, above all, safe for all our clients.

Warehousing and Logistics: Get Your Quote Now!
Our services include a comprehensive range of logistics and warehousing solutions.  We offer a synergy of flexibility and attention to detail while being geared towards the electronic & engineering industries, luxury items, apparel, leisure, sports goods, and FMCG products. Our strategic warehouse locations in the Netherlands and our commitment to personal service, compliance, and efficiency sets us apart.

Ziegler Northampton Granted WDA License For Controlled Temperature Storage

We are delighted to announce that our Northampton branch have successfully been granted a WDA License following an equally successful audit from the MHRA. Ziegler is now primed to revolutionise pharmaceutical logistics, with controlled temperature storage. This milestone underscores our dedication to supporting the healthcare industry on a global scale.

New Installment of Ziegler Trailers Inbound Through Thames Group Partnership

Through our partnership with Thames Group, we are excited to unveil the introduction of 30 new Ziegler branded trailers to our road haulage fleet.

Ziegler Sponsor Leading Essex Cricketers For Upcoming County Championship Season

Whilst our partnership with Crystal Palace Football Club continues to build momentum, we’re also growing our brand presence through another sport. We welcome Essex Cricket’s Matt Critchley and Jordan Cox on board through affiliate sponsorship for the 2024/25 County Championship season.

Logistics Introduction For Students At Gateway Academy

Some our team members recently presented an enlightening showcase on logistics at the Gateway Academy, providing students with valuable insights into the industry’s dynamics and career opportunities.

CDS Becomes Sole Platform For Customs Declarations

CDS has now replaced CHIEF for customs declarations. Check out our website for steps on a smooth transition, including duty deferment, EORI registration, and new cash accounts.

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We are thrilled to announce a strategic partnership with Thames Group that will see the arrival of 26 brand-new trailers at our London Gateway head office. This exciting development marks a significant step forward in our efforts to enhance our transportation capabilities across the UK.

Thames Group, one of our key domestic haulage partners, has joined forces with us to expand our fleet and boost our operational capacity. This collaboration underscores our commitment to innovation and excellence in logistics.

Our new trailers are just the beginning. In the coming months, we will introduce a fleet of branded rigid trucks and cabs, designed to further elevate our brand presence on the roads. This initiative aligns perfectly with our recent move into the London Gateway head-office super hub, equipped with 37 dedicated docking bays to streamline our logistics operations.

What does this mean for Ziegler UK and our customers? It means enhanced efficiency and reliability in domestic transportation services throughout the UK. With a vast road network covering approximately 262,300 miles with over 2000 consignments per month delivered to a multitude of customers and businesses, these volumes propel us into the next level of big logistics. Our branded fleet will stand out, ensuring increased visibility and recognition for the Ziegler brand.

But it’s not just about logistics; it’s about making a statement. Our branded trucks and trailers will become moving billboards, showcasing the Ziegler name and reinforcing our reputation for quality and reliability in transportation. This strategic investment in our fleet is a testament to our commitment to providing the best possible service to our clients.

This expansion also represents a new chapter in our growth story. By partnering with Thames Group and investing in our fleet, we are positioning ourselves for even greater success in the dynamic and competitive logistics industry.

We are thrilled to announce a significant achievement for Ziegler UK’s Northampton branch under the management of Branch Manager Marzena Spiewak and UK Logistics Manager Darrell Noble, the granting of a Wholesale Distribution Authorisation (WDA) licence by the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA). This milestone marks a pivotal moment in our journey toward excellence in healthcare logistics and underscores our commitment to upholding the highest standards of quality and compliance.

With the WDA licence in hand under the watchful eye of approved RP and Pharma Business Development Manager Glenn Bloomer, Ziegler’s Northampton branch is poised to activate its warehouse for controlled chilled and controlled ambient healthcare storage. This state-of-the-art facility boasts space for 600 pallets, providing ample capacity to store pharmaceuticals and healthcare products under stringent temperature-controlled conditions which will be supervised by newly promoted Warehouse Supervisor Dmitrij Semionov. Together with Operations Supervisor Sam Gardner they will make sure the smooth flow between departments.

What does this mean for Ziegler and our valued partners in the healthcare industry?

Elevating Quality Standards
The WDA license affirms Ziegler’s dedication to maintaining the integrity and quality of healthcare products throughout the distribution process. With strict adherence to GDP guidelines, our Northampton branch ensures that every product stored meets the highest standards of safety and efficacy.
Ensuring Compliance
Regulatory compliance is paramount in the pharmaceutical industry, and the WDA license demonstrates Ziegler’s unwavering commitment to meeting and exceeding regulatory requirements. Our comprehensive systems and procedures enable us to track and trace pharmaceutical products with precision, ensuring full compliance with MHRA regulations.
Enhancing Customer Confidence
Partnering with Ziegler means placing trust in a logistics provider with a proven track record of excellence. The granting of the WDA license further reinforces our reputation for reliability, transparency, and professionalism, instilling confidence in our customers and stakeholders alike.
Facilitating Growth and Innovation
With our newly licensed warehouse facility in Northampton, Ziegler is well-positioned to support the evolving needs of the healthcare industry. The expanded capacity for controlled chilled and ambient storage enables us to accommodate a diverse range of pharmaceutical products, fostering innovation and growth opportunities for our partners.
Advancing Supply Chain Resilience
In today’s dynamic healthcare landscape, supply chain resilience is more critical than ever. By obtaining the WDA license, Ziegler’s Northampton branch strengthens the resilience of the healthcare supply chain, ensuring the uninterrupted flow of essential medicines and healthcare products to patients nationwide.

What are some of the key features this brings to bolster Ziegler’s supply chain solutions?

👥 GDP Trained Staff: Our dedicated team of experts ensures that your pharmaceuticals and healthcare products are handled with the utmost care and compliance.

🔒 Hi-Tech Security: Your valuable cargo is safeguarded by advanced security systems, providing you with peace of mind throughout the entire transportation process.

⚡ Back-Up Generator: We prioritize the safety and integrity of your products by ensuring uninterrupted power supply, even during unforeseen circumstances.

🌡️ Temperature Mapping: Our cutting-edge technology ensures precise temperature monitoring, guaranteeing optimal conditions for your temperature-sensitive goods.

🗄️ Bulk Storage: We offer spacious and efficient bulk storage solutions, enabling you to store larger quantities of products securely and conveniently.

⚡ Pick and Pack: Our streamlined processes allow for efficient and accurate order fulfilment, ensuring your shipments are prepared swiftly and accurately.

🚛 Next-Day Temperature Controlled Parcel Services: Experience swift and reliable delivery, ensuring your time-sensitive shipments reach their destinations without delay.

🚚 Dedicated Temperature Controlled Direct Delivery Services: Your critical healthcare shipments receive the highest level of attention and care, with dedicated temperature-controlled transportation directly to their destination.

As we celebrate this milestone achievement, we extend our sincere gratitude to the dedicated team members whose hard work and dedication made this accomplishment possible. We also express our appreciation to our partners and stakeholders for their continued trust and support.

We remain steadfast in our commitment to excellence, innovation, and compliance. With the granting of the WDA license to our Northampton branch, we look forward to further advancing our mission of delivering exceptional healthcare logistics solutions that make a meaningful difference in people’s lives.

Exporting products to Spain can represent an enticing growth opportunity for many businesses. As the second largest country in the EU, access to its 47 million consumers can significantly boost sales and expand market share. However, reaping these rewards requires successfully running the gauntlet of Spanish customs procedures.

With complex and frequently changing regulations administered by 17 different customs offices across Spain, clearing shipments can be frustratingly difficult, time-consuming, and unpredictable. It’s estimated over 25% of shipments to Spain encounter issues at some point in the customs clearance processes resulting in costly delays ranging from a few days to over three weeks.

For time-sensitive deliveries or companies operating on a just-in-time inventory models, these customs delays in Spain can be devastating:

➤ Late deliveries erode customer trust and loyalty in the Spanish market

➤ Storage fees rapidly accrue while goods stall in ports and warehouses

➤ Manufacturing outputs slow or cease awaiting delayed raw materials or components

➤ Rush shipping charges must be incurred to meet delivery deadlines

➤ Expired or obsolete products and materials must be discarded

➤ In the worst cases, customs delays can completely erase profit margins from selling into the Spanish market. So what proactive steps can you take to avoid becoming another statistic?

Securing an In-Country Customs Broker Should Be the Priority

Simply put, attempting to handle Spanish customs filings in-house is a recipe for trouble. Regulations shift so frequently that even native corporations partner with customs brokers for compliance support. A brokerage located in Spain offers ideal positioning to:

➤ Maintain close relationships with each unique customs office

➤ Receive real-time regulation updates and policy guidance

➤ Get advanced notice when documentation rules change

➤ Tap into a formal appeal processes to contest unjustified shipment delays

This local presence and expertise makes missteps less likely to happen. But more importantly, when issues inevitably still crop up, they have the connections to quickly resolve most holds ups. Having a Spanish broker in your corner can convert week-long delays into minor two-day inconveniences.

The ideal partner for avoiding Spanish customs debacles is a logistics provider with integrated in-house brokerage services located in-country. The seamless information exchange and aligned incentives ensure customs needs are prioritised. As an extension of the logistics company itself, they take responsibility for proactively securing timely releases.

Advanced Technology Solutions Also Offer Promise

In addition to a local customs broker, evaluating carriers and logistics providers capable of supplying enhanced shipment visibility and process automation merits strong consideration.

Integrations providing real-time status updates, documentation management tools, and inventory tracking visibility empower you to spot potential bottlenecks as they emerge. Access to digital freight platforms and collaborative portals also streamlines communicating critical information to key players the second it’s needed – reducing delays.

While technology alone won’t eliminate customs issues, when paired with an engaged in-country customs broker, it can certainly chip away at unnecessary stagnation. Every minute saved counts when operating on today’s lean supply chains.

Successfully competing in Spain requires overcoming the obstacle of cumbersome customs procedures. The optimal solution is partnering with a vested logistics provider or freight forwarder that also maintains an experienced in-house customs brokerage staff inside Spain. Augmenting that setup with technologies capable of enhancing visibility and documentation workflows will also pay dividends.

Hopefully, putting a structure like this in place will allow your company to realise the full growth potential of selling into Spain without customs serving as an anchor dragging down operations and profitability.

As the world welcomes the freshness of springtime, we want to express our best wishes to you.

May this time be filled with moments of joy, peace, and inspiration.

And just as nature blossoms and flourishes over the coming months, we hope this season infuses new energy and creativity into your own life and business.

Wishing you a Happy Easter filled with success, happiness, and continuous growth.

Our world has fully embraced the era of the fourth industrial revolution, marked by the integration of artificial intelligence and higher degrees of automation across all industries. This digital transformation spares no sector, including maritime transport, which undergoes profound changes amidst rapid technological advancements. With the imminent fifth industrial revolution, driven by climate urgency and the need to make maritime transport a player in energy transition, predicting the landscape until 2030 involves some risk. While precise outcomes remain uncertain, discernible trends and potential risks are emerging.

In the crystal ball of our experience and expertise in maritime management spanning over sixty years, this white paper aims to assist you in navigating this dynamic and sometimes challenging environment while keeping a clear course to better understand what the future holds.

THE ECOLOGICAL QUESTION

Approximately 80% of physical goods exchange flows pass through maritime transport. The transportation sector accounts for nearly a quarter of global greenhouse gas emissions, and with emissions projected to double by 2050, urgent measures are needed. The ecological question is the primary trend that maritime transport, as well as its clients, must address. It is integral to the carbon footprint of a product, increasingly concerning end customers, both professional and individual. Companies must consider environmental impacts throughout a product’s life cycle to reduce energy consumption, produce more efficiently, and find ways to mitigate the environmental impact associated with maritime transport.

By 2030 and beyond, ecological concerns are both evident and complex. Decarbonising maritime transport is the top priority, influencing aspects like vessel transformation, exploration of new maritime routes, changes in sourcing policies, and the convergence of production and consumption locations.

Today, two solutions are frequently discussed within the current maritime ecosystem: a significant reduction in vessel speeds, which could disrupt international logistics chains profoundly, and the use of less polluting fuels, like liquefied natural gas (LNG), limiting harmful atmospheric emissions. The European Commission aims to gradually eliminate fossil fuels in favor of adopting green fuels, providing flexibility to shipowners and fleet operators. The clear objective outlined in the European Union’s climate roadmap is a reduction of greenhouse gas emissions by at least 55% by 2030 compared to 1990 levels. This necessitates a radical evolution in maritime transport to meet market demands, become more competitive and profitable, all while being influenced by global trends, technological advancements, and fuel innovations.

What is the Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) of a product?

LCA is a step-by-step evaluation method that audits all stages of a product’s life cycle, from raw material extraction to manufacturing, distribution, use, collection, and disposal in end-of-life channels. It is a comprehensive process that provides insights into the environmental impacts of a product.

Sail-Powered Ships:

Renewable energies, particularly wind energy, could play a significant role in decarbonising maritime transport. Wind power could lead to a 20-40% fuel consumption reduction, lowering fuel costs and greenhouse gas emissions. The European Union estimates that 15% of the global commercial fleet will be partially wind-powered by 2030, with the UK predicting 45% by 2050. Various innovations, such as kites, rigid sails, soft sails, and suction wings, are expected to become more common on future ships by the end of the decade.

Evolving Ships:

Ship operations and performance monitoring technology have continually improved. Future vessels will feature a comprehensive sensor network to measure all aspects of operations, including defect detection and identification of areas requiring maintenance or repair. With increasingly powerful ship-to-shore communications, most ship operations can be controlled by onshore fleet management teams. Embracing the Internet of Things (IoT) technological revolution will connect ships, ports, containers, and goods to gather more data for making informed decisions.

However, the digitalisation of maritime transport comes with a growing risk of cyber attacks. The 2018 NotPetya malware attacks disrupted critical systems of Maersk, resulting in losses of $250 to $300 million. The future of maritime transport necessitates a focus on digital security professionalism due to the close interconnection of ships, ports, cargo owners, and various stakeholders.

Larger Ships:

Emulating the A380’s strategy in the maritime industry involves building larger vessels for more cost-effective transport. Currently, the Ever Apex holds the title of the world’s largest container ship, with a capacity exceeding 24,000 TEUs (Twenty-foot Equivalent Units). Leveraging the cost-saving potential of these giant vessels requires rethinking some commercial routes and canal crossings to use their space most efficiently.

Optimised Ships:

Achieving more ecological maritime transport also requires redefining construction techniques. Pressured to reduce the carbon footprint of maritime fleets, numerous technologies are under consideration, such as streamlined hulls, more efficient propellers, better trip planning to save fuel, and improved hull coatings. Fuel choice plays a crucial role, with increasing interest in LNG due to its potential to help operators meet emission reduction targets while remaining competitive in terms of cost. Other fuels, including ammonia, methanol, and biofuels, are also under consideration. Maritime carriers are obligated to invest in greening their fleets to comply with the International Maritime Organisation’s (IMO) Low Sulphur regulation, effective since January 1, 2020, and strengthened by the 2023 regulations imposing further greenhouse gas reductions.

GLOBALISATION AND SOURCING EVOLUTION

Shifting Sourcing Dynamics:

Global economic interconnectivity and the proliferation of international trade agreements have reduced import tariffs, administrative formalities, and, in some global regions, corruption, while facilitating the movement of goods. However, recent years have witnessed strong protectionist movements involving countries that were previously champions of free trade and reduced trade barriers. In this context, the future of maritime transport will also undergo sourcing evolution with new models likely to emerge and evolve.

Relocation in Dots:

Behind the façade of globalisation, a new reality highlights our dependence on China for suddenly strategic production. The repatriation of production could secure supplies, revitalise national industrial fabric, and decrease carbon emissions associated with goods transport. Relocation is a subject that intertwines political and economic dimensions, often brought into focus by international events, questioning the robustness of a global value chain previously considered indestructible.

Various international events, from the 9/11 attacks and the Fukushima disaster to the Arab Spring, the Suez Canal blockage, tensions between China and the United States, and the Russia-Ukraine war, have cast doubts on the resilience of a global value chain once deemed unassailable. Relocated production may be perceived as slow and less responsive. Distance implies longer timelines and delays in decision-making. It also poses higher risks of overproduction due to mass production. However, considering surplus, unsold goods, storage, and disposal costs, the question of relocations in France and Europe will continue to be raised and widely publicised but is unlikely to become the norm.

Nearshoring: Bridging Production and Consumption:

Among options reshaping future sourcing and maritime transport is nearshoring. This model involves bringing production closer to the point of consumption without necessarily relocating to the final country. For example, a French company that previously outsourced to China might reintroduce some or all of its production to Morocco. Nearshoring brings back a sense of proximity to decision-making and the market while maintaining control over the production process. It also reduces transit times, transportation costs, and overall environmental impact.

Containerisation: Revolution or Evolution?

Containerisation revolutionised maritime transport in the mid-20th century by standardising cargo handling, reducing transportation costs, and accelerating turnaround times. Decades later, the container remains the backbone of maritime logistics. Still, changes are afoot. The post-World War II era has seen significant shifts in container design, size, and technology, but the fundamental principles of containerisation remain unchanged. The notion of revolution or evolution in containerisation is an ongoing debate. Does the industry need a radical shift, or are incremental improvements sufficient?

While some argue that the traditional container design may limit efficiency and present challenges for certain cargo types, others believe that containerisation, combined with technological advancements and smart port solutions, remains the most efficient and reliable method for global cargo transportation. Innovations such as smart containers equipped with sensors and tracking devices, blockchain-based systems for supply chain transparency, and automated container handling at ports enhance the efficiency and security of containerised shipping. In the foreseeable future, the industry might witness a hybrid approach, combining the strengths of containerisation with technological innovations to address evolving challenges.

CHALLENGES AND OPPORTUNITIES

Climate Urgency and Regulatory Compliance:

The urgency of climate change mitigation has prompted stringent regulations in the maritime industry. The International Maritime Organization (IMO) has set ambitious targets, including reducing the carbon intensity of shipping by 40% by 2030 and achieving a 50% reduction in total greenhouse gas emissions by 2050 compared to 2008 levels. Meeting these targets requires significant changes in ship design, propulsion systems, and fuel sources.

Shipowners and operators face the challenge of investing in sustainable technologies while remaining economically viable. The transition to cleaner fuels, adoption of energy-efficient technologies, and implementation of operational measures to optimise fuel consumption all contribute to the industry’s response to climate urgency. While these changes involve substantial upfront costs, they also present opportunities for innovation, collaboration, and market differentiation.

Digitalisation and Cybersecurity:

The maritime industry’s increasing reliance on digital technologies brings unprecedented opportunities for efficiency, safety, and environmental sustainability. From autonomous vessels to blockchain-based supply chain solutions, digitalisation promises transformative benefits. However, this technological leap forward also exposes the industry to cybersecurity risks.

The interconnected nature of maritime systems, including navigation, communication, and cargo management, creates vulnerabilities that malicious actors may exploit. Cybersecurity threats pose risks to vessel safety, cargo security, and the overall resilience of maritime operations. As the industry embraces digitalisation, investing in robust cybersecurity measures becomes imperative. Training maritime professionals in cybersecurity best practices, implementing secure communication protocols, and developing resilient systems are essential steps in safeguarding the industry against cyber threats.

Geopolitical Tensions and Trade Routes:

Geopolitical tensions have a direct impact on global trade and maritime transport. Trade routes, particularly key chokepoints and strategic waterways, become focal points of geopolitical maneuvering. Tensions between major powers can result in disruptions to shipping lanes, affecting the flow of goods and increasing shipping costs.

Recent examples include the Suez Canal blockage in 2021, which highlighted the vulnerability of critical maritime infrastructure, and tensions in the South China Sea, where territorial disputes have implications for regional and global trade. The maritime industry must navigate geopolitical uncertainties, diversify trade routes where possible, and adapt to changing geopolitical dynamics.

The Human Element and Workforce Challenges:

Amidst technological advancements and automation, the human element remains a crucial factor in maritime operations. The industry faces a dual challenge: attracting and retaining skilled professionals while preparing the workforce for the digital future. Seafarers, ship engineers, and shore-based personnel must acquire new skills to operate and manage technologically advanced vessels and systems.

Automation and autonomy offer benefits in terms of safety and operational efficiency, but they also raise concerns about job displacement. Balancing the integration of automation with the preservation of maritime jobs requires proactive workforce development strategies, training programs, and collaboration between industry stakeholders, educational institutions, and policymakers.

As the maritime transport industry charts its course towards 2030 and beyond, it grapples with a complex web of challenges and opportunities. The imperative to address climate urgency reshapes the industry’s approach to sustainability, driving innovations in propulsion systems, fuel choices, and vessel design. Digitalisation promises efficiency gains but demands vigilant cybersecurity measures to safeguard critical maritime infrastructure.

Geopolitical tensions underscore the need for resilience and adaptability, prompting the industry to diversify trade routes and navigate uncertainties. The human element remains integral, necessitating a strategic focus on workforce development to align with the digital future. Ultimately, the future of maritime transport lies at the intersection of environmental responsibility, technological innovation, geopolitical realities, and the human expertise that propels the industry forward.

In this evolving landscape, stakeholders across the maritime ecosystem—from shipowners and operators to policymakers, port authorities, and industry associations—must collaborate to shape a sustainable and resilient future for maritime transport. By embracing innovation, addressing challenges proactively, and fostering a holistic approach to industry transformation, the maritime sector can navigate the seas of change with confidence and purpose.

The road transport sector stands at a crucial juncture, compelled to address the urgent need for reducing its carbon footprint. Various alternatives are emerging as potential solutions, each presenting specific advantages and challenges. It is essential to delve into these alternatives to shape the future of road mobility in a sustainable manner.

Below, you will find a diverse set of solutions aimed at making transportation more environmentally friendly:

Biofuels: XTL and B100

Biofuels, derived from organic materials like plants, offer a more sustainable alternative to fossil fuels. Their key advantage lies in their capacity to decrease carbon emissions, thereby helping mitigate the transportation sector’s impact on climate change. However, challenges arise due to competition with food production and the need for extensive land areas for biomass cultivation.

Synthetic fuels (XTL, HVO), second-generation biofuels obtained from animal fats, used oils, or forest residues, avoid competing with food products.

However, current quantities available are limited and are likely to remain so in the coming decades due to the restricted availability of usable raw materials. The use of biofuels is now viewed as a transitional phase towards other energy sources.

XTL

XTL is a biofuel based on the recovery of used oils. This fuel is produced from plant waste, avoiding direct competition with crops used for food production.

XTL, a second-generation biofuel, is non-toxic, biodegradable, and stable over time. Numerous advantages compared to conventional fuel include:

Biodegradable fuel
No fuel overconsumption
No impact on engine wear and performance

In figures, XTL represents:

An 88% reduction in CO2 emissions compared to diesel
Emission factor = 0.54 kgCO2e/Liter vs. 3.10 kgCO2e/litre for diesel
30% fewer fine and ultrafine particle emissions

Various tests are currently underway to assess the use of these alternative fuels, ensuring they are traceable and certified as sustainable.

B100

B100 is a biofuel produced from renewable raw materials, such as vegetable oils, used cooking oils, or other lipid sources. It is used as a substitute or additive to traditional petroleum-derived diesel.

The use of B100 may require modifications or adaptations to existing diesel engines due to slight differences in biodiesel properties compared to conventional diesel.

The possibility of using B100 depends on vehicle pollution standards:

Euro I to V: immediately and without engine changes
Euro VI: through a slight engine modification called retrofit for available vehicles, or immediately approved B100 for new vehicles
Classified as Crit’Air 1

In figures, B100 represents:

A 60% reduction in CO2 emissions compared to diesel
22 kg CO2e/litre vs. 3.10 kg CO2e/litre for diesel emission factor
80% fewer fine and ultrafine particle emissions

Advantages compared to conventional fuel are numerous:

Biodegradable
Not ATEX and not classified ICPE
Less flammable than petroleum diesel
Safer to handle and transport

Biogas

Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) serves as an alternative to oil, primarily composed of methane. This gas can be produced in methanization stations, with BioCNG derived from renewable sources, mainly organic materials, gaining popularity in the transportation sector.

Here are some key points about BioCNG:

A renewable source produced from organic materials
Compatible with all CNG vehicles (originally fossil Natural Gas Vehicles) and utilizes the same refuelling infrastructure
0.61 kg CO2e/kg vs. 3.10 kg CO2e/litre for diesel emission factor
Minimal emissions of toxic particles and toxic or carcinogenic gases
Noise reduction while driving
Classified as Crit’Air 1

As of December 31, 2022, more than 650 stations distribute BioCNG/CNG in France.

301 refueling points are open to the public, including 224 delivering Compressed Natural Gas (CNG), 169 delivering BioCNG, and 77 delivering Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG).

In addition to alternatives to fossil fuels, new engine technologies are also being developed:

Electricity

Electric trucks are emerging as a crucial solution for decarbonizing urban and regional logistics, aligning with climate goals, particularly the binding European rules aiming for a 30% reduction in carbon emissions from new heavy-duty vehicles by 2030. Additionally, the benefits related to reducing air and noise pollution in urban areas reinforce the relevance of electric trucks.

Despite this progress, the operational deployment of electric trucks falls short of expectations. Current constraints, such as limited autonomy, reduced payload, and long recharge times, hinder the deployment of electric trucks. However, initiating the transition now is crucial to meet climate goals and avoid excessive demand in 2030.

Financial obstacles, while less prioritized than operational problems, can be overcome through financial assistance, eliminating the total ownership cost surcharge. Tax incentives, such as accelerated depreciation until 2030, and ecological bonuses contribute to making electric trucks economically competitive compared to equivalent diesel models.

Hydrogen

In the race for the decarbonization of road transport, hydrogen is emerging as a distant option, garnering increasing interest despite persistent obstacles. Recently, a hydrogen-powered truck prototype set a range record by covering 1047 kilometres on a single charge, highlighting the potential of this decarbonized technology.

However, major obstacles remain, including the lack of hydrogen refuelling infrastructure, high costs, and growing competition in the sector.

Towards Sustainable Mobility

Despite these challenges, industry stakeholders recognise the complementarity of battery-powered and hydrogen-powered trucks, along with alternatives to fossil fuels. While batteries are favoured for light loads over short distances, hydrogen could play a key role for long-distance journeys, offering faster recharge times. Currently, alternative fuels are seen as transitional energies toward more sustainable mobility.

As a forward-thinking leader in road freight movement, Ziegler is embracing a diverse range of environmentally friendly fuel options. Recognising the urgent need to address carbon emissions and promote sustainability in the transportation sector, we have made a conscientious commitment to reduce our carbon footprint. By exploring and adopting alternative fuels, we are actively contributing to a greener future for road freight. This proactive stance not only aligns with global efforts to combat climate change but also sets a positive example for the industry.

For any information request, please contact us: sales.enquiries@zieglergroup.com