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SmartWay for Autos: What to Expect - FAQ

Written by AIAG | Mar 21, 2018 4:29:29 PM

There are many ways to ship automobiles and automotive parts. This is the smartest way, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.

What is SmartWay?
SmartWay is an EPA voluntary partnership that helps companies improve freight transportation efficiency throughout their supply chains to move more ton-miles of freight with lower emissions and less energy and at a lower cost. Over 3,000 shippers; logistics companies; truck, rail, barge, and multimodal carriers (including may Fortune 500 companies) have registered with SmartWay since 2004.

Why is Freight Transportation Efficiency Important?
In the U.S., freight transport accounts for 16 percent of greenhouse gas emissions, making it one of the largest carbon footprint contributors. And by 2040, U.S. freight transport emissions are on track to increase nearly 40 percent.

How Does SmartWay Work?
SmartWay gives its partners an integrated wet of EPA-Tested tools to make informed transportation choices. These tools help companies measure, benchmark, and report carbon emissions and improve freight efficiency and environmental performance across their supply chain.

Why Do Automotive Companies Register with SmartWay?
Automotive companies are increasingly concerned with addressing their Scope 3 carbon emissions from transportation. SmartWay gives these companies the high-quality data the need for Carbon Disclosure Project (CDP) and Global Reporting Initiative (GRI) requirements. Participation in SmartWay also gives partners a competitive edge and enhances their corporate image.

What Results have SmartWay Partners Achieved?
Since 2004, SmartWay partners have eliminated 72.8 million metric tons of CO2; 1,458,000 tons of nitrogen oxides, and 59,000 tons of particulate matter. They’ve saved 170.3 million barrels of oils and $24.9 billion in fuel costs. This is equivalent to eliminating annual energy use in over 6 million homes.

How do SmartWay Partners Make a Difference?
SmartWay registration demonstrates a public commitment to corporate social responsibility and sustainable business practices. Registered SmartWay automotive partners like General Motors (GM), Fiat Chrysler Automobiles (FCA), and Toyota Logistic Services show customers, clients, and investors that they are mitigating risk, reducing their carbon footprint, and taking responsibility for emissions associated with moving goods.

How to Automotive Companies Benefit?
SmartWay partners are part of an alliance that includes Canada and a global network of Green Freight programs. Partners can network with their peers to share best practices and success stories and participate in industry forums and recognition ceremonies to showcase their achievements.

How Can My Automotive Company Register?
It’s easy. Simply enter your freight activity data in a free, downloadable tracking and assessment tool and submit it to EPA. Registration is renewed annually.

When you join SmartWay, you’re in good company. Visit www.epa.gov/smartway to learn more.