Heavy-duty trucking and logistics are among the highest contributors to greenhouse gas emissions. As the world rallies together to combat human-caused climate change, freight transportation is in the spotlight. In response, industry leaders are exploring green hydrogen and other renewable energy solutions as more sustainable options.

In this article, we'll explore how clean energy for logistics can help with decarbonizing freight operations.

Decarbonizing the Transport Sector

Decarbonization is the process of reducing or even eliminating the amount of carbon emissions produced.

Decarbonizing the freight sector requires a multifaceted approach. For example, logistics providers might leverage renewable or non-polluting fuel sources as alternatives to diesel. They might invest in more efficient vehicles and leverage advanced technology to optimize routes. Even seemingly small changes like adopting sustainable packaging can contribute to low-carbon supply chains.

Here at SEKO, we do our bit to decarbonize the transport sector. We've built sustainable transport solutions that help our clients attract eco-conscious consumers, meet their regulatory compliance obligations, and win the trust of investors and other stakeholders.

What Is Green Hydrogen?

One of the major strategies the logistics sector can use to lower its carbon emissions is switching to non-polluting fuels. This is where hydrogen comes into the picture.

Hydrogen can work as a fuel in one of two ways:

  • The first is through a hydrogen fuel cell that produces green hydrogen energy. This is where the hydrogen reacts with oxygen to produce electricity, water, and heat. The chemical reaction is clean and eco-friendly—water vapor is the only by-product.

  • Hydrogen can also be burned in internal combustion engines, much like gasoline. This approach is less efficient than hydrogen fuel cells and can produce small amounts of polluting nitrogen oxides.

Green Hydrogen and Decarbonization

The impact and purpose of green hydrogen extend far beyond its zero-emission profile.

As a clean energy source, it combats climate change by powering vehicles and industrial processes. Its ability to fuel logistics operations without compromising efficiency or reliability makes it a viable solution to many sustainable freight transportation challenges.

By replacing fossil fuels, green hydrogen supply chains align with global climate ambitions. This is something we support at SEKO Logistics. That's why we are investing in green hydrogen freight solutions and carbon-free freight transportation systems that empower our clients to achieve their goals.

The Role of Clean Hydrogen for Freight

The role of clean hydrogen in freight is as a fuel alternative that reduces carbon emissions. However, widespread adoption requires substantial investment in infrastructure, which we'll examine in more detail below. So, why not just prioritize electric vehicles (EVs)?

On the one hand, EVs hold huge potential as a non-polluting transportation alternative. But, battery-powered vehicles have limitations that make them less viable for large-scale freight operations. They cannot travel as far as diesel-powered vehicles without recharging, and recharging takes time. This causes disruptions and slows delivery.

In contrast, hydrogen provides the energy density and fast refueling capabilities needed for long-haul transportation and heavy-duty applications.

The Importance of Green Hydrogen in Logistics

Green hydrogen is poised to be incredibly important to the future of sustainability in logistics. Already, global regulations are echoing this stance. The EU, for example, has issued a mandate for hydrogen refueling stations along all major routes by 2030.

Hydrogen's value comes from its ability to support zero-emission freight transport without the disruptions and slow-downs associated with EVs. It reduces carbon emissions by using fuel cells that only emit water vapor, which, unlike carbon, is harmless to the environment. Diesel engines, in contrast, release substantial amounts of CO2.

Here at SEKO, we are already embracing the power of green hydrogen. Our global network comes together to show that clean energy for logistics is not only imperative but also entirely possible. When our clients choose us, they choose operations on the cutting edge of global standards for sustainability.

Building a Greener Future with Hydrogen Infrastructure for Logistics

Hydrogen cannot reach its full potential without the proper infrastructure. Looking ahead, the world will need:

  • Production facilities that generate green hydrogen

  • More refueling stations to support long-haul logistics

  • Efficient pipelines and vehicles designed for zero-emission freight transport

The latest green hydrogen news reports capital flowing into new and exciting projects. Incredibly, investment has increased sevenfold between 2020 and 2024.

SEKO Logistics Leads the Way

SEKO Logistics is at the forefront of the sustainable logistics revolution. By investing in hydrogen technologies, SEKO promotes sustainable transport solutions that reduce emissions across the entire supply chain. Our initiatives include:

  • Partnerships and collaborations with key stakeholders to integrate green hydrogen supply chains

  • Development of innovative and advanced freight solutions powered by hydrogen

  •  Global leadership and advocacy for the adoption of eco-friendly freight solutions worldwide

The Road Ahead Is Green

The journey to decarbonize freight transportation is ambitious but necessary. Green hydrogen transportation offers a viable path to achieve sustainable freight transportation, reduce reliance on fossil fuels, and combat climate change. However, its success hinges on collective action to build infrastructure and establish supportive policies.

Here at SEKO, we are already embracing renewable energy in transportation—not just as an option or possibility but as our responsibility. Together with our clients, we are paving the way for a more sustainable future for the logistics sector.

If you share our values, get in touch today. We'd be more than happy to discuss your needs and share more about our zero-emission freight transport services.