Harmonising carbon footprint calculation for freight transport chains

The European Commission has set as a target a reduction of 60% in transport greenhouse gas emissions by 2050 (EC, 2011). This includes freight transport emissions, which present a particular challenge due to the forecast increase in goods transport linked to future economic growth, the current trend of lengthening supply chains and the global nature of these supply chains. A wide range of methodologies and tools is available for calculation of the carbon footprint of freight transport, based on varying emissions data, routing and allocation assumptions and conflicts between actual and assumed vehicle loading performance. In spite of recent developments such as the publication of a European standard EN 16258 "Methodology for calculation and declaration of energy consumption and GHG emissions of transport services (freight and passengers)" there is a clear demand from industry, for harmonisation of calculation methods applicable along the supply chain, across various modes, and at a global level. The COFRET project is working to support this process using real life case study supply chains.