DPD is calling on sustainability specialists to come up with new ways to reduce its carbon emissions from transport, delivery and buildings.

DPD already has a 3,000-strong fully electric collection and delivery fleet but is seeking solutions to make EVs easier for drivers to use

It’s partnered with global innovation specialist L Marks to launch its first-ever EcoLab to discover additional sustainable solutions for the business, with the goal of minimising DPD’s environmental impact.

Open from today (12 June 2023), the EcoLab seeks experts in the fields of fleet decarbonisation, collection & delivery and buildings. Once approved, ideas will then be developed and tested, helping DPD’s goal of reaching net zero by 2040.

Vehicle electrification factors heavily in the EcoLab, including for carbon emission reduction in collection & delivery. The company is working to become the UK’s most sustainable delivery company and already has a 3,000-strong fully electric fleet but is seeking solutions to make electric vehicles easier for drivers to use. These may include EV charging stations and alternative electric vehicles.

DPD also runs more than 1,000 HGVs, working across the UK every day, and is looking for solutions around alternative fuel sources, electric batteries and alternative delivery methods.

The third prong of the EcoLab focuses on slashing emissions on DPD’s network of 100+ buildings, including depots, hubs and offices. It’s looking for leading solutions and innovations that can be retrofitted or installed in future depots. DPD is also looking to design and build depots in the ‘greenest’ way possible moving forward.

Successful businesses will enter a 10-week immersive EcoLab programme, providing an opportunity to validate their solutions, access DPD’s network and resources, and draw on mentorship from industry experts.

Tim Jones, director of marketing, communications & sustainability DPDgroup UK commented: “Investing in and developing new sustainable technologies and innovations is crucial in the next few years to ensure we can reach net zero, and partnering with experts in this way can accelerate that progress.”

More details on the EcoLab can be found here. Applications close on 16 July 2023.