According to the most recent data on greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions in Brazil, in 2021, the country was responsible for the emission of 2,4 billion tons of CO2 equivalent (CO2e) – international measure whose purpose is to establish the equivalence between all GHGs and carbon dioxide – which represents an increase of 12% compared to the previous year and the highest value ever recorded since 2006.
Freight transport has become one of the main contributors to CO emissions2and in the energy sector, representing 25% of the sector and 5% of total Brazilian emissions in 2021. With a 9% increase in emissions over the last year and 54% over the last 20 years, emissions from freight transport reached the value of 109 million tons of CO2and, the second highest value in the historical series, returning to levels close to those observed in 2014 – it is worth mentioning that these numbers do not include the transport of international cargo.
Figure 1 – Historical series of emissions from cargo transport in Brazil, in millions of tons of CO2and, from 200 to 2021.
Source: SEEG. ILOS analyses.
The road modal is responsible for 94% of emissions from cargo transport – demonstrating Brazil's high logistic dependence on this modal –, followed by waterway and rail, which represent just 3% each. Such emissions come especially from the burning of fossil fuels, mainly petroleum diesel, automotive gasoline and fuel oil.
Figure 2 – Emissions in cargo transport by mode and fuel in Brazil, in million tons of CO2and, in 2021.
Source: SEEG. ILOS analyses.
While the statistics paint a challenging picture, there are also significant opportunities to decarbonize freight transport. To achieve the goal of zero or negative emissions, companies need to adopt sustainable and innovative approaches.
The electrification of vehicles appears as a promising alternative. While not yet available for all vehicle types, switching to electric vehicles can substantially reduce GHG emissions. However, implementation requires a support ecosystem, including charger infrastructure, dedicated repair equipment, and staff retraining.
As part of a transition strategy, other sustainable approaches can be adopted, such as, for example, the adoption of less polluting fuels, the renewal of the vehicle fleet, the use of more sustainable modes and the investment in more efficient paving technologies.
The pressure to achieve decarbonization is stronger than ever and some companies have been moving and promoting actions with a focus on becoming carbon neutral. However, this trend is likely to accelerate when regulations require disclosure of the carbon footprint of products and services. This should create a new scenario of comparison and competition between organizations, which must act proactively to adapt to this new era of sustainability.
GHG emissions in cargo transport represent an urgent challenge for the logistics and supply chain sector. However, these challenges also bring with them significant opportunities for adopting sustainable and innovative practices. The transition to decarbonization is an undeniable necessity and a valuable opportunity for companies to stand out as leaders in building a greener and more responsible future.
