Nov 9, 2017
Shell has launched a new service at the National Sustainability Congress 2017 in Hertogenbosch, enabling business customers to offset the CO2 emissions of their automobile useage. Accenture Netherlands is the first customer to use this new service.
The service is linked to the Shell Card and works in three steps. First, Shell gives customers insight into their CO2 emissions. Next, we examine how the emissions can be reduced, for example by changing driving behavior. Finally, after each refueling, Shell calculates the CO2 emissions and offsets them on behalf of the customer through one of the partnering CO2 offset projects.
“Sustainable solutions are needed for a successful transition to a low-carbon future”, says Marjan van Loon, CEO of Shell Netherlands. “Shell is focusing on various programs to reduce the carbon footprint that results from transportation. By helping customers consume as little fuel as possible, by offering alternative energy sources and now also by giving customers the opportunity to offset their CO2 emissions. “
As an example of alternative energy sources, Marjan van Loon mentions hydrogen as well as the electric charging of cars, in addition to liquefied natural gas (LNG) to replace regular diesel. For example, Shell is working on a network of fast-charging stations at its filling stations. In addition, Shell recently acquired NewMotion, one of Europe’s largest providers of electric charging points at home and at work.
CO2 compensation projects
Shell is involved in CO2 offset projects around the world. The projects are certified by the VCS (Verified Carbon Standard) and CCB (Climate, Community & Biodiversity) Standard. VCS is currently the most widely used standard for CO2 offset projects worldwide. The CCB Standard ensures that projects, in addition to tackling climate change, also support local communities and maintain or improve biodiversity.
Accenture Netherlands is the first customer to use Shell’s new service. “We aim to halve our CO2 emissions by 2020 by at least half in 2014”, says director Manon van Beek. “To this end, we are taking various measures in the area of transportation to reduce or preserve sustainability. Offsetting is then the necessary last step. From the cooperative relationship with Shell, we make the biggest impact here. “
Accenture opted for the CO2 offset project Kasigau Corridor in Kenya. This project was developed by Wildlife Works and protects 200,000 hectares of threatened forest. So far, the project has created 300 jobs, planted over 50,000 trees, financed new classrooms and student grants for local students, and improved access to drinking water for more than 25,000 people.
Since 1 November, the CO2 emissions of Shell’s own lease car fleet have also been compensated.
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