Unlocking the Future of Sustainable Logistics with Moran Logistics

A Q&A with Otto Terrell and Mark Burrell

The logistics industry is at a critical juncture, facing pressure to reduce its carbon footprint while meeting increasing demands for efficiency and reliability. With the global push towards sustainability, logistics companies are exploring innovative solutions to minimise environmental impact. This transformation presents both significant challenges and opportunities for the sector, which is vital to the functioning of modern economies. Against this backdrop, we delve into how Moran Logistics, with the support of True, powered by Open Energy Market, is navigating this complex landscape to achieve its ambitious sustainability goals.

We hear from both Mark Burrell, CEO, Moran Logistics, and Otto Terrell, Head of Sustainability, True, powered by Open Energy Market.

Q: Mark, can you tell us about Moran Logistics’ commitment to sustainability and your Net Zero target?

Mark: Absolutely. At Moran Logistics, we recognise the significant carbon footprint associated with the logistics and supply chain industry. This awareness drives our commitment to reducing emissions and achieving Net Zero by 2030. We’ve implemented numerous sustainable practices and are continuously seeking innovative solutions to further decrease our carbon impact.

Q: What specific steps is Moran Logistics taking to reduce its carbon footprint?

Mark: The most obvious area for carbon reduction is our fleet. We have a comprehensive vehicle replacement programme and have invested heavily in alternative fuel sources. Our new fleet additions include 13-litre Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) Scania tracks, which can reduce carbon emissions by as much as 90 percent compared to traditional diesel trucks. These trucks are also compliant with PIEK noise limitation standards, making them both clean and quiet.

Q: Otto, which parts of your work with Moran Logistics most excite you?

Otto: True is dedicated to helping businesses like Moran Logistics develop and execute practical and cost-effective decarbonisation strategies. We’ve worked closely with Moran to create a sustainability roadmap for both their warehouses and transport operations. This involves assessing and implementing a variety of technologies and practices, such as voltage optimisation, Demand Side Response (DSR), advanced metering and targeting (aM&T) technology, and state-of-the-art refrigeration systems. For their transport operations, we’re helping them trial Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil (HVO) in trailers, investigate carbon removal projects, and add more CNG vehicles to their fleet.

Q: Mark, can you elaborate on the steps Moran Logistics is taking specifically with its warehousing operations to become more sustainable?

Mark: Our warehousing operations are a significant focus for our sustainability efforts, particularly our chilled warehouses, which are energy intensive. We’ve committed to powering all our properties with clean, renewable energy. Additionally, we’ve invested in sensor array lighting to ensure our facilities are energy-efficient, only using lighting when necessary. We’re also collaborating with True to explore advanced technologies like Zudek refrigeration, which significantly reduces ammonia consumption, and to explore the feasibility of roof-mounted solar PV systems.

Q: Otto, what role does True Crew play in Morgan Logistics’ sustainability journey?

Otto: True Crew is a team of sustainability experts who work as an extension of Moran’s team. Businesses often find themselves time and resource poor, with the ESG landscape being confusing and difficult to navigate. Many lack a dedicated in-house team to manage these complex initiatives. True Crew address these challenges by providing the expertise and support needed to make significant progress. We guide Moran dynamically towards their Net Zero goals, ensuring that their sustainability strategy aligns with their broader business commitments and stays within budget. Our experts help Moran Logistics assess multiple projects, evaluate their impact, and accurately model the required cash flow, making the path to Net Zero as smooth and effective as possible.

Q: Mark, what are the long-term benefits of these sustainability initiatives that you foresee for Moran Logistics?

Mark: These initiatives – and the True Crew is absolutely a big part of that - not only help us achieve our Net Zero target but also position us as a leader in sustainable logistics. By optimising our transport network, reducing empty trailer occurrences, and investing in clean technologies, we enhance our operational efficiency and reduce costs. This commitment to sustainability is also vital for our relationship with customers, who increasingly value eco-friendly practices.

Q: Otto, what do you see as the future for logistics companies in terms of sustainability?

Otto: The future of logistics is undoubtedly rooted in sustainability. Companies will need to continue investing in innovative technologies, alternative fuel sources, and strategic energy procurement to stay competitive and meet regulatory requirements. Collaboration is key – working together with customers, and sometimes even competitors, will drive the changes needed across the industry. At True, we’re here to help our clients navigate these changes, making sure that they can meet their sustainability goals without losing sight of their broader business objectives.

Q: Finally, Mark, what advice would you give to other logistics companies looking to reduce their carbon footprint?

Mark: Start by assessing your current operations and identifying the most significant areas for improvement. Make the commitment to surround your business with the right solutions and teams to maximise the success of those ambitions. This includes investing in new technologies and alternative fuels, and not being afraid to partner with experts like True who can provide the guidance and tools needed to make impactful changes. The more we progress, the more I’ve found that sustainability is a journey, and continuous improvement is key. Engage your entire team in these efforts and collaborate with your customers to find mutually beneficial solutions.