Some call it sustainability.
We call it good business.
We are dedicated to environmental responsibility and operational excellence. By maximizing transportation efficiency and optimizing goods movement, we actively reduce our carbon footprint. Our strategic investments drive innovation, optimize routes, and operationalize new technologies, ensuring sustainable growth and responsible practices.
We are working toward four ambitious sustainability goals (2019 baseline):
- Reduce CO2 emissions by 7.5% per mile by 2025.
- Achieve a 60% reduction in CO2 emissions per mile by 2035.
- Double our intermodal size by 2030, reducing CO2 emissions by an additional700 million pounds per year.
- Achieve net zero status in all our company-owned facilities by 2035.
Sustainability goals progress:
- Schneider achieved a 7% reduction of emissions per mile, meaning it has already accomplished 90% of its 2025 goal.
- Transitioning our rail service to Union Pacific Railroad in the West, aligning with Canadian Pacific Kansas City in the North-South and continuing our long-standing relationship with CSX, will help us reach our goal of doubling Intermodal by 2030.
- 9.7% reduction in emissions year over year at owned facilities. We also conducted an energy audit of our owned locations and implemented several energy-saving and environmentally focused initiatives.
Leading with electric vehicles
Schneider operates one of the largest battery electric vehicle (BEV) fleets in North America, with almost 100 Freightliner eCascadias. To power the trucks, we opened a large-scale charging depot at its South El Monte Operations Center in California. Our BEV fleet surpassed 1.5 million zero emission miles in 2023. We also replaced two diesel yard spotters at our cross-dock facility in Southern California with electric yard spotters, saving an estimated 70 thousand pounds of CO2 each year.
Leveraging our intermodal network to cut emissions and delays
Rail freight also offers significant environmental benefits, with one ton able to travel up to 500 miles on a single gallon of fuel, providing additional fuel-saving opportunities for our customers.
Our rail partnerships with the Union Pacific, CSX and CPKC offer truck-like service across the U.S. and Mexico enabling reliable capacity and efficient and safe cargo movement.
Sustainable solutions for our customers
Schneider helps shippers optimize networks and reduce their carbon footprint through reduction in empty miles, freight consolidation and by selecting the right mode of transportation.
Optimizing our existing fleet
Our equipment plays a crucial role in achieving our sustainability goals and stands out as one of the most fuel-efficient fleets in the industry. Our scale allows us to test and implement advanced technologies effectively and our unique approach to equipment engineering attracts and supports informed decision making.
Our trucks optimize efficiency through:
- Advanced aerodynamics: We maximize aerodynamics on both tractors and trailers, minimizing air resistance and improving fuel efficiency.
- Advanced powertrains: State-of-the-art drivetrain technology ensures optimal performance and reduced emissions.
- MirrorEye ®: Innovative camera-based mirror systems enhance safety while reducing drag.
Backed by SmartWay
Schneider was a charter member of the United States Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) SmartWay program, established in 2004 — a voluntary collaboration between the EPA and freight industry designed to increase energy efficiency and significantly reduce greenhouse gas and air pollution.
Schneider is recognized as a SmartWay High Performer for operating an exceptionally efficient and clean fleet, burning less fuel per mile traveled and for every ton of freight moved.
Sustainability awards
Our achievements are proof of our ongoing commitments.
SmartWay High Performer Award, EPA.
Top 100 Truckers, Inbound Logistics.
Asset Sustainability Carrier of the Year, Pepsico.
Thoroughbred Sustainability Partner Award, Norfolk Southern.
Top 75 Green Supply Chain Partners, Inbound Logistics.
Nurturing innovation and collaboration at The Grove
This environmentally responsible 20,000 square foot building – on our main campus right outside of Green Bay – centralizes our innovation and sustainability efforts.
The Grove serves as a collaboration space for associates and customers with the goal of reviewing processes and identifying opportunities for continuous improvement. The building was built using sustainable materials, ensuring minimal impact on the surrounding natural ecosystem.
Go with Schneider
Learn more about Schneider progress and the next steps in our environmental, social and governance (ESG) journey by exploring our 2023 Corporate Responsibility Report.