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IMPLEMENT: VEHICLES & TRANSPORTATION

Importance of Transportation in the Context of Climate Change

Transportation is responsible for more than a quarter of all GHG emissions globally. Removing fossil fuels from transportation is a critical part of climate action, with the state of California and many other jurisdictions looking to eliminate fossil fuel usage by 2040 or earlier. Global investments in decarbonizing transportation is substantial, with billions invested annually.

Reducing Fuel Usage and Decarbonization of Transportation is Key

Any efficiencies that can be made in vineyard and winery transportation that reduce fuel usage (Scope 1 emissions) and that reduce fuel use in the supply chain (Scope 3 emissions) is helpful. Electrification of transportation, which can then be powered with renewable energy, is the ultimate goal.

The transition to electric-powered transportation is in the early stages, with only some electric-powered vehicles currently cost effective. For instance:

Light-duty electric vehicles are at or near price parity with fossil fuel powered vehicles for initial purchase price and can have lower energy and maintenance costs during vehicle use.
Medium and heavy-duty electric vehicles are still often substantially more expensive for initial purchase, but some use cases can demonstrate lower total cost of ownership over the course of vehicle life.
Electrification for non-road vehicle applications such as tractors, other hauling equipment, and lift trucks is also happening with mixed results.

Charging infrastructure is an important consideration. Private charging (e.g. on-site, self-owned) is often desirable, but public charging networks are advancing in both scale and sophistication for many applications.

Working with Service Providers

Many transportation services providers, including those that distribute wine, are actively planning their own fleet electrification efforts. In addition to selecting providers who are committed to reducing GHG emissions, vineyards and wineries can develop their own Fleet Electrification Transition Plan to:

map out their own fleet replacement schedule,
identify the opportunities to prioritize specific vehicle electrification,
understand their necessary charging infrastructure, and
engage with their suppliers to understand and encourage their electrification.

Resources:

Vehicles & Transportation - Implementation Guide: Provides details on reducing GHG emissions related to vineyard and winery transportation, sustainable vehicle procurement, reducing vehicle energy use and optimizing wine distribution.