Driving down delivery emissions with renewable diesel
Even the smallest decisions can make a big difference -especially when it comes to the fuels powering our vehicles. In Finland and the Baltics, our teams are gradually transitioning to renewable diesel which can reduce greenhouse gas emissions by up to 90%. Delivery operations are central to our goal of halving greenhouse gas emissions by 2030 compared to 2021. This decision, combined with eVehicles in China, has already set customer delivery emissions on a downward trend.
“Our mission is simple: we aim to provide our customers with more sustainable service,” says Jussi Leskinen, Operative Director in Finland. “This is not just a minor adjustment but a significant step forward. Optimised delivery routes and an extensive laundry network further reduce our carbon footprint.”
Neste, the world’s leading producer of renewable diesel, supplies the fuel and collaborates with us in a two-way partnership. As part of its commitment to sustainability, Neste has chosen our workwear service to reduce the number of garments and minimise environmental impact.
Targeting 100% low-emission kilometres by 2025
The shift to renewable diesel has already shown strong results in 2024, and its impact will grow in 2025. It reduced emissions from customer deliveries in Finland by 23% in 2024. “Although this transition came with higher costs, the environmental benefits far outweigh them,” Leskinen notes.
Most delivery vehicles in Finland now operate on renewable diesel, complemented by a growing fleet of electric and biogas-powered vehicles. As of February 2025, 89 % of Lindström’s and 98% of Comforta’s delivery kilometres were already covered by these low-emission alternatives. The goal for the region, including Finland and the Baltics, is 90% by the end of 2025.
Renewable diesel offers immediate impacts
Renewable diesel is made entirely from renewable raw materials, such as waste and residue materials. This results in a carbon footprint that is, on average, 90% smaller than that of fossil diesel over its lifecycle.
It is widely available in the Nordic countries and the Baltics. This makes it practical and impactful choice for rapidly cutting emissions.
“Renewable diesel works with existing vehicles, offering an immediate way to reduce emissions, ” Leskinen explains. “We also plan for long-term emission reductions, but having solutions that deliver immediate impacts is essential.”
Over time, Leskinen expects the fleet to transition to biogas and eVehicles, which provide more cost-effective long-term options. “We encourage our delivery operators to switch to these vehicles. We also closely monitor the potential of hydrogen energy for future use.”
Overcoming global challenges
The next challenge is finding low-emission solutions for all countries. Availability of renewable diesel is weaker outside the Nordics and Baltics. Biogas and eVehicles hold great promise, but face infrastructure, capacity and vehicle payload challenges in Europe.
China, on the other hand, is a global leader in electric vehicles. Advanced, cost-effective eVehicles have reduced our delivery emissions. Strategically placed depots also help shorten delivery distances, further cutting emissions.
“Our ambition is high, and we seek the best solution for each country,” says Taneli Ranki, Head of Delivery Services. “We explore better electric vans and the ways to use renewable diesel outside the Nordics and Baltics. We leave no stone unturned in our pursuit of progress.”
While there is still work to be done, one thing is clear: we remain committed to reducing our emissions and supporting our customers’ sustainability goals.
Related
We have optimised the loads and routes of our customer deliveries. Now we must make e-vehicle charging as efficient as possible.
Net-zero laundry program is one of our key initiatives to significantly reduce the greenhouse gas emissions from our operations.
