Meeting corporate sustainability targets: the role of intermodal transport
Struggling to meet your sustainability targets? The answer could be intermodal logistics.
With growing pressure to report and reduce Scope 3 emissions, many companies are rethinking how their goods move from A to B. That’s where intermodal transport shines. By combining road, rail, and sometimes even sea freight, it offers a smarter, more sustainable way to shift cargo – with efficiency and reliability still front and centre.
Why does it matter? Because road freight alone is one of the biggest contributors to transport-related emissions. Swapping even part of that journey to rail can significantly reduce your carbon footprint.
So, if you're serious about hitting those corporate sustainability goals, it might be time to take a fresh look at how your supply chain moves.
Intermodal could be the key to greener, cleaner, leaner logistics – without the headaches.
Why sustainability in logistics is essential
When people talk logistics, it’s all about getting from A to B. Fast, affordable, reliable.
But there’s a new letter on the route map: C. Climate.
It’s no longer just a nice-to-have. UK businesses are now legally required to report their carbon emissions – including the impact of getting goods from warehouse to doorstep.
And the pressure isn’t just top-down. Consumers – especially Gen Z – are demanding more than just bold claims – they want proof [Source]. It’s not enough to say you’re sustainable. Brands now need to show exactly how, especially when 75% of Gen Z say they value sustainability over brand name, and many are willing to pay more for it.
It’s not just a youth movement, either – regulators are stepping in too. From California to Germany, governments are introducing laws that require businesses to dig deeper into their supply chains and disclose the full picture.
The common thread? Visibility. A more transparent supply chain helps brands stay compliant, cut through greenwashing accusations, and win the trust of a growing crowd of climate-conscious consumers.
How intermodal transport helps
Cuts CO₂ emissions by up to 70%. Moving freight from road to rail significantly lowers your carbon footprint. Trains are far more efficient over long distances, making this a powerful way to reduce transport-related emissions without compromising performance.
Keeps fuel costs under control. With fuel prices on the rise (and staying unpredictable), rail offers a more stable, cost-effective alternative. Over long hauls, it can be around 30% cheaper than road transport, helping businesses protect margins while staying on schedule. (Source: European Commission)
Supports long-term sustainability compliance. As new regulations kick in, businesses need to prove their environmental performance – especially across the supply chain. Intermodal solutions offer a clear path to compliance, helping you meet reporting requirements while reinforcing your brand as a leader in sustainable logistics.
Going the extra mile – for you and for the planet
Need a logistics partner that helps you hit your sustainability goals? Get in touch.
At GTS Logistics UK, we’ve got A to B covered – and we never forget about C.
With intermodal transport solutions that cut emissions, lower costs, and keep you compliant, you're not just moving goods – you're moving in the right direction.
