The organisations attending the World Economic Forum (WEF) annual meeting this month could cut CO2 emissions by 3 million tonnes by switching to low-emission fleets.

That's one of the findings from LeasePlan Corporation's first Sustainable Fleet Benchmark report, which also highlights the organisations which are already switching to sustainable fleets.

Tex Gunning, CEO of LeasePlan, said: "Companies attending Davos could erase 3 million tonnes of CO2 simply by choosing a low-emission fleet - and that's just the start. 

"LeasePlan's Sustainable Fleet Benchmark shows how all corporate fleets can make a difference in the fight against climate change.

"Climate change, and how to prevent it, is one of the major topics at this year's World Economic Forum meeting in Davos.

"Around half the cars on the road today belong to companies and a move towards cleaner fleets would be one of the best ways to reduce global emissions. 

"Corporate fleets must be a part of this conversation. It is as simple as a decision from top leadership saying 'we will make the switch', and that can happen today."

The research also found:

  • The 1,808 organisations attending the meeting in Davos-Klosters have an estimated 813,000 vehicles in their fleets, which collectively emit approximately 3.09 million tonnes of CO2 per annum.
  • Fleets are gradually moving towards alternative powertrains, primarily battery electric vehicles and plug-in hybrids, as awareness builds. The proportion of vehicles with alternative powertrains in corporate fleets rose from 3.3% in 2015 to 4.3% in 2017.
  • Continued action is required as average CO2 emissions rose slightly in 2017 for the first time since 2012. This is due to increased uptake of petrol vehicles, as well as the first rise in average mileage since 2013. 
  • Companies with a Leader profile include Baidu, EDF Group, IKEA Group and Royal HaskoningDHV.

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