Optimising Transport Efficiency: How Devon Belles Reduced CO2 Emissions and Fuel Costs

Project Overview
Devon Belles, a transport-intensive company with 90% of their CO2e emissions arising from vehicle operations, partnered with our team to tackle their environmental impact head-on. Our collaboration focused on comprehensive carbon reporting, efficiency assessments, and impactful driver training, helping Devon Belles lower their emissions and achieve significant fuel savings.

Challenges
As a transport-heavy operation, Devon Belles faced the dual challenge of reducing their carbon footprint and controlling fuel costs. With the majority of their emissions linked to vehicle operations, they needed a solution that would deliver measurable environmental benefits while also being financially sustainable. The goal was to implement a system of reporting, monitoring, and training to drive improvements across the fleet.

Our Approach
We developed a holistic strategy for Devon Belles that focused on transparency, efficiency, and training:

1. Annual Carbon Reporting & Carbon Intensity Metrics:
   We began by establishing a robust carbon reporting framework, generating annual reports that detailed Devon Belles’ emissions profile. Additionally, we created carbon intensity metrics specific to their transport operations, which highlighted the carbon output per mile. These metrics provided a clear view of their environmental impact, helping Devon Belles monitor progress and pinpoint high-emission areas for targeted improvements.
2. Efficiency Assessments & Improvement Reporting:
   Through in-depth assessments, we identified areas where Devon Belles could optimise their fleet’s performance. We delivered regular reports outlining efficiency recommendations, focusing on route optimisation, vehicle maintenance schedules, and other actionable changes. This analysis enabled the company to maximise fuel efficiency and minimise unnecessary emissions, aligning their operational practices with best-in-class sustainability standards.
3. Driver Training for Fuel Efficiency:
   Recognising the role of driving habits in fuel consumption, we implemented a tailored driver training programme. This training empowered drivers with techniques to improve miles per gallon (MPG) performance, such as smooth acceleration and deceleration practices. As a result, Devon Belles achieved a notable increase in MPG, which translated into a substantial decrease in fuel costs, saving approximately £2,000 per vehicle per year.

Results
The partnership with Devon Belles yielded significant operational and financial gains. By implementing our recommendations and focusing on driver training, the company saw marked improvements in fuel efficiency and sustainability. The carbon reporting framework and carbon intensity metrics provided a foundation for ongoing monitoring, enabling Devon Belles to track and reduce their environmental impact over time. The £2,000 annual fuel savings per vehicle underscored the direct financial benefits of the programme, reflecting Devon Belles' commitment to both environmental and economic sustainability.

Conclusion
Devon Belles’ commitment to reducing their carbon footprint and optimising their transport operations highlights the power of actionable data and targeted training. By adopting a strategic approach to carbon reporting and efficiency improvements, they not only lowered their CO2e emissions but also realised substantial cost savings. Devon Belles is now better positioned to continue their journey toward a more sustainable future, setting an example in the transport sector for responsible and profitable environmental practices.