Unilever shifts towards LNG trucks

Consumer goods giant Unilever has announced its plans to work with trucking and shipping companies powered by Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) in line with its commitment to reduce CO2 emissions, according to a Port of Rotterdam Authority news release.

Paul de Jong, Unilever’s Logistics Transformation & Innovation Director, plans to roll out 100 LNG trucks by the end of 2016.

“LNG offers a carbon dioxide reduction of 11.5% and a 35% reduction of the smog-causing chemicals, nitrogen oxide and nitrogen dioxide emissions, compared to diesel. Where it gets really interesting is the way LNG cuts fine particulates – the tiny particles linked to heart and respiratory illness – by 95%, and noise levels by up to 50%,” explained de Jong in an NGV Global News article.

The multinational has also led a consortium, called Connect2LNG, which will build five LNG filling stations in France and Germany. Funding from the European Commission has been offered to shoulder 50% of the project.

“With Connect2LNG, we’re working with partners from across the value chain, including logistics companies, infrastructure companies and manufacturers,” says Mark Rickhoff, Logistics Transformation & Innovation Manager.