New Zealand Post has set an ambitious goal of becoming carbon neutral from 2030 and is developing a science-based target against which to measure its progress. To achieve this goal, the organisation is undertaking multiple initiatives to reduce emissions as much as possible ahead of 2030 and plans to purchase carbon offsets for any remaining emissions from that date.
A decarbonisation fund has also been created to help drive emission reduction initiatives. The annual fund value is linked to the cost of being carbon neutral now (i.e. purchasing voluntary carbon credits to offset emissions). For the 2019 financial year, the value of the fund will be nearly NZ$1m and will be used to invest in technology and innovation projects which will lower its carbon emissions.
While several projects and actions for carbon emission reduction are already underway, a balancing act is needed. The volume of parcels being delivered in New Zealand each year is rising by 9% and represents the potential for increasing emissions.
To help drive lower carbon parcel delivery, New Zealand Post expanded its electric vehicle fleet with 500 Paxsters and is also piloting five electric vans. The vehicles reduce emissions, pollutants and noise compared to traditional vehicles and also allow for an increase in delivery capacity. In addition, New Zealand Post is aiming to increase first time delivery of items and improve energy efficiency in buildings.