In today’s world, where the urgency of decarbonization is felt more acutely than ever, the logistics industry faces significant challenges. Lack of infrastructure, grid capacity, BEV trucks distance, costs of other alternative solutions – while all those challenges are being discussed to find the best available solution or approach, there is a simple action that can already start working in favour of reducing emission from transport. Eco-driving, sometimes underestimated, is still not a favoured option for many professional drivers. But why exactly and what are the benefits of it not only on a larger scale but from a driver’s perspective?

Potential that cannot be overestimated

There are more than 6 million trucks, with an average age of 14 years, delivering goods on European roads every day. An exchange that into becoming zero-emissions vehicles is either expensive or not possible, considering today’s manufacturers’ capacities and market demand for zero-emissions logistics services. Additionally, to that emissions from older truck are much higher that discussable today EURO 7 standard or even existing for some years already EURO 6.

With eco-driving skills drivers can influence the level of fuel consumption and therefore level of emissions. Why it is a good solution? Because it is possible to benefit from it immediately, not entering investment processes at all. However eco-driving is also something more, especially for drivers.

“In my experience eco-driving directly affects traffic safety. Because eco-driving requires a calm ride, with smooth manoeuvres planned well in advance. This also affects the morale of the driver. When you ride like this you feel yourself calmer,” – says Uladzislau Piatrychyts, winner of latest ECO League season at Girteka Group.

The logistics sector, with heavy goods vehicles (HGVs) accounting for approximately 20% of all road transport emissions in Europe, faces a formidable challenge in its quest for sustainability. The examples like Girteka’s ECO League, by focusing on driver behaviour, leverages a significant opportunity for immediate impact.

Eco League – a motivational competition

Drive smart and safe! – this is the main objective and goal of the ECO League. Integrating a culture of economical driving which makes the best use of advanced vehicle technology and at the same time improves road safety, not only develops the driving skills of drivers.  In Girteka’s ECO League driving is analysed through 8 different parameters from idling, use of brakes and extreme braking, stops, rolling and cruise control usage, and its effectiveness and engine load. A combination of these parameters results in an eco-score, which is measured up to the best possible result with a value of 100.

Uladzislau highlights the challenges and rewards of adopting those eco-driving practices. “One of the most important parts in eco-driving is anticipation… And you can’t influence it. But you can influence your skills and drive through the busy, difficult, or dangerous part of the road very effectively,” he explains, emphasizing the program’s focus on skill enhancement and safety. This approach contributes to reducing emissions and improving road safety and driver well-being.

Uladzislau also touches on the importance of patience and long-term commitment to eco-driving, a sentiment that might explain why some drivers hesitate to embrace it fully. “But in eco-driving, you need patience and work for a longer period,” he notes, pointing out that immediate results are not always evident, yet the cumulative impact is significant.

Digital support on performance

However, today digital solution helps to provide instant and accurate information on performance, which can be easily adapted by drivers to improve their skills. “With the new fleet and telematics, eco-driving is convenient and easy. Some parameters have changed and now it has become even easier and safer to drive and achieve greater results. It’s also convenient to control your work every day since all the information is online and always available,” – explains Uladzislau.

Uladzislau’s experience and insights reflect the broader goals and achievements of the ECO League. By prioritizing continuous education, leveraging technology for real-time feedback, and fostering a competitive yet supportive environment, Girteka is not just reducing emissions. It’s building a community of drivers who are not only skilled in eco-driving but are also proud advocates for sustainability.

The more engaged the better results

This program, through the voice of participants like Uladzislau, illustrates a critical message: individual actions, when guided by knowledge and supported by technology, can lead to significant environmental benefits. Today’s average distance driven by each truck is more than 160 thousand kilometres. If we can reduce by just a tiny piece the emission from each 100 kilometres on every truck, the size can be significant, and what is more important, with less than 1% of investment compared to BEV or hydrogen solutions.

Whether it is the ECO League or any other eco-driving skills program, motivational program, training, or practical test, there is always a benefit for the driver, as Uladzislau summarizes, “I wanted to be more than just a driver; to be a professional driver. The eco league has many parameters that let you control and hone your driving experience.”

This example of Girteka’s ECO League transcends the individual achievements of its drivers, reflecting a broader commitment to sustainability that resonates with all stakeholders. For communities, it promises cleaner air and a reduction in greenhouse gas emissions. For Girteka, it reinforces its reputation as a responsible leader in logistics, committed to environmental stewardship. For the drivers, it offers improvement of skills, increased safety and the chance to win prizes.