Bowker has long been committed to making sure our operation acts in a sustainable and responsible manner. We are committed to integrating environmental management within company policies, procedures and objectives. We recognise that we have a responsibility to the environment and sustainability.
Bowker's continued investment in technology is a driving force behind the company's journey towards sustainability. By harnessing innovative solutions, Bowker is seamlessly integrating advanced technology into its operations, enabling more efficient and eco-friendly practices. This strategic focus ensures that Bowker not only leads in technological advancement but also pioneers in sustainable development within the industry.
Since 1972, we have enjoyed the benefits of a strong commercial partnership with Volvo. Through the years, Bowker and Volvo have shared the same values and responsibility in striving for sustainability. Volvo have reduced emission of air pollutants from new Volvo trucks by 90%.
At Bowker, we continuously invest in our fleet with the latest advancements in fuel-efficient performance. We have recently added a new Volvo fully electric rigid to our fleet. With a 280km range, this electric vehicle will help us reduce our carbon emissions significantly.
Additionally, we have been one the firsts to add the Volvo FH Aero Vehicle into our fleet, with every aspect of the vehicle with environmental responsibility in mind.
✔ Aerodynamic shape
✔ Camera monitoring system
✔ Drag-free disc brakes
✔ Goodyear's energy tyres - most fuel-efficient tyres on the market
We are currently trialing Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil (HVO) fuel, which is a fossil-free alternative that reduces CO2 emissions by up to 90%. HVO can be used just like diesel, requiring no modifications to existing vehicles, making it an easy and effective way to lower environmental impact. This initiative underscores Bowker's commitment to advancing sustainability in the logistics industry.
Additionally, customers are now able to view and track CO2 emissions associated to Bowker’s warehousing and transport activities undertaken on their behalf (assisting with scope 3 emission reporting) all of which is available on the customer’s web portal.
On the CBA’s 100-year anniversary, Bowker are proud to have been awarded their responsible care logistics service members award. This award represents the chemical industry’s dedication to ongoing enhancement in health, safety, security and environmental standards. It incorporates all aspects of the chemical supply chain, involving thorough scrutiny of every phase within our industry. This ranges from the manufacturers we work with to our internal operations. Our commitment to a more sustainable future is unwavering, as we continue to invest in our operations to target a net zero future.
Bowker are shareholder members of Palletline. Palletline’s multi-hub model means that its members can input freight into local regional depot, reducing the distance travelled by 4.5 million miles, when compared to operating into one central hub. Over a 12-month period, that’s a reduction of 7.5 tonnes of CO2.
Palletline operate to ISO standards 14001:2015 and 50001 supporting member’s aims to reduce environmental impact. Palletline are committed to achieving these standards, which require year-on-year improvements in order to retain the accreditations, and have already cut energy usage by almost 20%.
We understand our distribution centres and logistics hubs can have an effect on the environment and we are committed to reducing their impact.
Fors Silver accreditations aims to raise the level of quality within fleet operations and to demonstrate which operators are achieving exemplary levels of best practice in safety, efficiency, and environmental protection.
SQAS assessments cover sustainability in logistics, including quality, environmental, security, safety and Corporate Social Responsibility. SQAS an assessment system that provides a detailed factual assessment report. The reports allow companies to evaluate their logistics service providers according to their own standards and requirements.
In 2022 Bowker signed up to the Operation Clean Sweep programme. The programme is an international initiative from the plastics industry to reduce plastic pellet loss to the environment. In the UK it is led by the British Plastics Federation. The initiative’s aim is to ensure that the plastic pellets, flakes and powders that pass-through manufacturing facilities in the UK are handled with the care they deserve and do not end up in our rivers or seas.
