- 3/5/2024

Ziegler environmental strategy

3 min

From delivering jars of chocolate spread through the winding streets of Brussels, to storing and transporting satellites to Patagonia, to packing and moving valuable works of art, Ziegler does it all. Founded in 1908, the Belgian transport company provides international logistics solutions via multiple channels.

“The transport industry doesn't have the best environmental reputation,” admits Ziegler CEO Diane Govaerts. "People rightly expect solutions from us in that field. We do not run away from our environmental responsibility and have found a true partner in BNP Paribas Fortis.”

On land, at sea and in the air

Everything we use in our daily lives comes to us by road, rail, water or air. As a transport company, Ziegler is aware of its environmental footprint. The company is committed to improving its Environment, Society and Governance (ESG) performance in a number of areas.

“Our environmental strategy is based on four pillars,” explains Govaerts. "First, we have rainwater systems, LEDs, solar panels, electric charging stations and more. Our lab in Poland is constantly looking for new solutions like these.

Secondly, there is the transport itself. We are switching to the EURO 6 standard, which consumes less fuel and minimises pollution. At the same time, we are actively promoting alternatives, such as rail. Thanks to our trials with electric cargo bikes, we can now make B2B deliveries of up to 500 kg in small city centre streets. We are also developing autonomous electric delivery vehicles. Another interesting development is the use of drones in our warehouse logistics.

The third pillar is our team. We are running a number of educational initiatives to raise awareness of energy savings, recycling and vehicles with a smaller environmental footprint.

The last pillar is our partners, because they have the same needs as we do. This is certainly something we have in common with BNP Paribas Fortis."

No way back

Ziegler is actively looking for solutions. Despite the financial challenges, carbon-neutral solutions tend to be significantly more expensive, Diane Govaerts confirms 'there is simply no other way'. "If your company is not actively changing, you will not be here in five years. We are on the same wavelength as BNP Paribas Fortis in this regard. They are helping us make our transformation possible by providing support and financing. Their knowledge of multiple industries is extremely valuable to us. They are a true partner, making real contributions and helping us to find appropriate solutions. It’s reassuring to know that we can count on their guidance."