Environmental standards in logistics: what are the requirements in 2025?

Environmental standards in logistics help to reduce the harmful effect on the environment while satisfying customer demands. For example, ISO 14001 focuses on efficient waste management and the fight against climate change.

To comply with these standards, companies must mark products as soon as they are put into storage, and carefully design their packaging. This is crucial to obtaining important environmental certifications.

Since 2024, the Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD) has required major companies to report on their environmental actions. Euro 7 standards, which will be mandatory from 2025, will unify emissions rules for all types of vehicle.

In addition, Low Emission Zones (LEZs) restrict access for polluting vehicles in certain European locations, showing the importance of following these guidelines for logistics activities.

💡 Read our full report on current energy schemes

Understanding environmental standards applicable to logistics

What is an environmental standard in logistics?

An environmental standard in logistics is a rule that helps reduce the ecological impact of transporting and managing goods. They set targets to limit the negative impact on the planet.

For example, Euro 7 standards, which will come into force in 2025, will impose less pollution for all vehicles. Similarly, EU regulation 2019/1242 aims to reduce CO2 emissions from heavy goods vehicles by 15% by 2025.

These standards play an important role for logistics companies. They have to follow these rules to better respect the environment. There is a difference between these obligations and voluntary certifications such as ISO 14001.

The latter are chosen by companies wishing to demonstrate their commitment above and beyond legal requirements.

The optimization of routes and the adoption of electric fleets are key to achieving the emission reduction targets set by the European Union for 2025.

Why integrate environmental standards into your supply chain?

Integrating environmental standards improves business performance. It meets the expectations of customers who care about the environment. Companies that follow these standards, such as ISO 14001 and ISO 14040, stand out from the crowd.

They show that they care about the environment. This can attract more customers and create a competitive edge.

Following these standards also helps to comply with European and French regulations. This ensures that activities are carried out in an environmentally friendly way. By paying attention to environmental impact, companies show that they are responsible.

This positive approach can improve their brand image. Customers and partners see that the company is committed to a sustainable future.

The main ISO environmental standards for logistics

ISO 14001 helps companies to manage the environment more effectively. It covers waste management and resource use. This standard is crucial to good environmental management.

It plays a major role in the world of logistics. ISO 14040, on the other hand, encourages eco-design thinking. It is very useful for creating logistics systems that respect the environment.

Other ISO standards, such as 14083, focus on greenhouse gases in logistics. They show how to measure and reduce these gases. ISO standards 14020 to 14044 also help.

They talk about Life Cycle Assessment (LCA). This means looking at a product's entire life cycle to reduce pollution. The ISO 50001 standard deals with energy management in warehouses.

It helps companies to consume less energy.

ISO 14001: Environmental management

ISO 14001 is an essential tool for environmental management. It helps companies to identify, monitor and manage their environmental impacts. This reference framework is recognized worldwide.

Logistics companies must adopt it because of their significant impact on the environment. By 2025, they could be facing new obligations regarding greenhouse gas emissions.

To obtain this certification, a company must follow certain steps. First, it must assess its environmental impact. Next, it must implement an appropriate management system.

This includes waste management, energy consumption and emissions reduction. A transition to cleaner vehicle fleets is also necessary.

ISO 14001 continues to play a key role in environmental management.

ISO 14083: Quantifying greenhouse gas emissions in logistics

ISO 14083 quantifies greenhouse gas emissions in logistics. It measures emissions from production to delivery in the supply chain. This process helps to identify sources of emissions.

Guidelines are provided for collecting and calculating emissions data. By applying this standard, companies can implement actions to reduce their carbon footprint.

From 2025, compliance with ISO 14083 will be mandatory for logistics companies. This means that each organization must adapt its practices to comply with this standard.

Standardized assessment of the logistics carbon footprint therefore becomes essential. This standard also supports the transition to sustainable practices. Companies need to act now to prepare for these changes.

ISO standards 14040 to 14044: Life Cycle Assessment (LCA)

ISO standards 14040 to 14044 define Life Cycle Assessment (LCA). LCA measures the environmental impact of products and services. It looks at each stage, from the extraction of raw materials to the product's end-of-life.

The method assesses the natural resources used, emissions and waste generated. It provides a standardized framework for rigorous LCA.

In logistics, LCA is useful for optimizing packaging and storage. For example, a company can choose recyclable materials to reduce its ecological footprint.

Another example is calculating the distance travelled by parcels to minimize air pollution. These practices help to improve quality of life while reinforcing social and environmental responsibility.

ISO 50001: Energy management in logistics warehouses

The ISO 50001 standard deals with energy management in logistics warehouses. It aims to improve the energy performance of sites. This standard helps to reduce energy consumption.

It involves measurement and control procedures. Technological innovation is also encouraged. This enables efficient energy management. Thanks to this standard, companies can comply with environmental obligations in logistics by 2025.

Applying the ISO 50001 standard helps reduce greenhouse gas emissions. This is crucial for green logistics. Warehouses need to adopt this standard to become more sustainable.

Proper implementation leads to greater operational efficiency. Organizations need to prioritize this energy approach in their CSR strategy.

Other key environmental regulations in logistics

Environmental regulations are evolving in the logistics sector. Since 2024, the Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD) has replaced the Non Financial Reporting Directive (NFRD).

This new rule requires companies to report on their environmental impact.

Euro 6 and Euro VI standards apply to new vehicles. These standards aim to reduce pollutant emissions. In 2025, Euro 7 standards will come into force for light vehicles.

Regulation (EU) 2019/1242 also seeks to reduce CO2 emissions from heavy goods vehicles. In addition, the Emissions Trading Scheme (ETS) encourages large emitters to reduce their impact by using fixed annual quotas.

Low-emission zones also impose restrictions on commercial vehicles. This increases costs according to the environmental class of the vehicle.

European regulations on road transport (Euro VI, Mobility Package)

Euro VI standards impose strict limits on pollutant emissions. These regulations affect fleet choices for road transport.

• Obligations imposed by Euro VI standards: commercial vehicles must comply with very low emission thresholds. This applies to both trucks and light vehicles. This standard aims to reduce air pollution in our cities.
• Impacts on fleet choices and alternative fuels: Companies need to adapt their fleets to comply with Euro VI standards. They could opt for low-emission or electric vehicles. The acquisition of these vehicles may be supported by subsidies in some European countries.
• Presentation of the Mobility Package and its practical consequences: This package regulates the work of drivers in road transport. It also promotes sustainable practices, such as better management of driving and rest times. These regulations help to improve working conditions while reducing the environmental impact of road transport.

National regulations applicable to logistics warehouses (ICPE)

Logistics warehouses must comply with national ICPE regulations. These rules aim to protect the environment and ensure proper management of activities.

• Warehouses must comply with storage criteria. This includes compliance with safety standards to avoid accidents.
• Waste management is a fundamental obligation. Companies must set up efficient systems for sorting and recycling.
• Controlling environmental risks is essential. Every warehouse must assess its impact on biodiversity and take steps to reduce it.
• Sanctions may apply in the event of non-compliance. Local agencies may impose fines or even close a site.
• Requirements vary from country to country. It is crucial to adapt practices to local transport and logistics regulations.
• Compliance with greenhouse gas emission standards is also mandatory. This helps to reduce the logistics department's carbon footprint.
• Finally, certain specific sectors, such as mass retailing, must also deal with precise regulations on interior temperature for health and energy reasons. 👉 F ind out which temperature standards apply to supermarkets.
• Adopting sustainable infrastructures is becoming a necessity. Investing in these structures will enable us to meet expectations by 2025.
• Preventing environmental accidents must be a priority. Regular employee training is recommended.

How to effectively integrate these standards into your logistics strategy

Integrating environmental standards into your logistics strategy requires a clear approach. Start by choosing the right standards for your business. For example, ISO 14001 can improve your logistics performance.

It helps you manage the environmental impact of your operations.

Establish an environmental certification process. This includes implementing eco-responsible packaging to comply with requirements. Label your products as soon as they are stored to comply with standards.

Follow the CSRD directive for reporting on your environmental commitments. Use measures such as low-emission zones to reduce CO2 emissions.

These actions reinforce your social responsibility and support the ecological transition.

Choosing and prioritizing the right standards for your logistics activity

Companies need to choose the right standards to meet their obligations. This will help you meet the environmental challenges of 2025.

1. Analyze your logistics activity. Understanding your specific needs is essential. This will help you identify the standards that are directly relevant to you.
2. Select standards such as ISO 14001. This standard is key to obtaining certification for environmental requirements.
3. Assess the impact of European regulations such as Euro 7. This standard will impose strict requirements on light vehicles from July 2025.
4. Consider the European directive on public procurement. It imposes a minimum proportion of clean vehicles in the public sector.
5. Consider technological innovation and the transition to cleaner fleets. Regulations support these changes, which can optimize your supply chain.
6. Promote the use of electric fleets in your regulatory choices. These fleets help reduce greenhouse gas emissions while complying with regulations.
7. Prioritize recycling and sustainable management in your logistics approach. These aspects are often a growing need within companies today.
8. Establish a regular carbon footprint to monitor your environmental performance in real time. This will enable you to adjust your strategy as you go along.
9. Don't forget that obtaining subsidies can reduce your costs for electric vehicles, up to 360,000 euros per vehicle.
10. Keep abreast of developments in international standards and regulations to ensure ongoing compliance in the transport and logistics sector.

Structuring your environmental certification process

Structuring an environmental certification process requires good organization. This includes several key stages.

1. Start with a complete diagnosis. Assess your current logistics practices. Identify areas for improvement to comply with ISO standards, such as ISO 14001.
2. Ensure compliance with existing regulations. Take into account requirements such as Euro VI or CSRD reporting obligations.
3. Prepare for regular audits. These verifications ensure that your company complies with committed standards such as ISO 14083 and ISO 50001.
4. Anticipate the costs involved. Obtaining certification may require an investment in time and financial resources.
5. Evaluate the average time required to obtain environmental certification. This will vary according to the size and complexity of your supply chain.
6. Involve your operational teams in the process from the outset. Raising their awareness is crucial to adopting environmentally responsible practices on a daily basis.
7. Train your teams regularly on energy efficiency and sustainable development to improve their commitment to environmental standards.
8. Use the 5R method to guide all your actions: Reduce, Reuse, Replace, Renew, Recycle in your supply chain management.
9. Provide tools to measure and enhance your environmental performance over time, such as tracking GHG emissions in line with ISO 14064 standards.
10. Consider financial incentives that can reduce costs when switching to less polluting fleets, while complying with the new Euro 7 standards that come into force in 2025.

Measure and enhance your environmental performance

Measuring your environmental performance is essential. It helps you to understand the impact of your actions and to make progress.

1. Track your fleet's CO2 emissions. Optimizing routes and using electric vehicles can reduce these emissions.
2. Evaluate your ISO 14001 results. This standard is crucial for environmental management and certification.
3. Analyze warehouse energy savings with ISO 50001. Good energy management can reduce your costs.
4. Take account of European regulations, such as Regulation (EU) 2019/1242. This agreement calls for a 15% reduction in CO2 emissions by 2025.
5. Use key indicators to measure your environmental performance, such as the percentage of clean or electric vehicles.
6. Communicate effectively with customers about your certifications to reinforce your image and demonstrate your commitment to the environment.
7. Take advantage of the financial incentives you can obtain for purchasing electric vehicles, up to 360,000 euros per vehicle.
8. Participate in regular audits to assess compliance with ISO standards and national regulations applicable to logistics warehouses (ICPE).

Challenges and pitfalls in adopting environmental standards

Value chain assessment is crucial to certification. Rigorous analysis is essential. Complex implementation can lead to errors.

Logisticians need to adapt quickly to legal requirements. This includes standards such as ISO 14000, which define clear policies. Poor resource and waste management can undermine compliance.

Co-designing packaging right from storage is essential. This helps to meet ISO standards and reduce energy consumption. Mistakes frequently occur when the importance of these stages is overlooked.

An organized approach is essential to avoid the common pitfalls of environmental certification.

What difficulties do logisticians encounter in the certification process?

Logisticians face a number of difficulties in the certification process. Budget is a major obstacle. The increased costs associated with environmental obligations can hamper adaptation efforts.

This includes the EU cap-and-trade system. Resistance to change is also a problem. Many prefer their old ways, even if they are not effective.

Administrative complexity complicates the certification process. Standards are constantly evolving, making compliance difficult. Strict European regulations on emissions also have to be taken into account.

This requires investment in clean vehicles.

Common mistakes to avoid in regulatory compliance

Failure to comply with country-specific regulations can result in penalties. Carriers must comply with environmental standards. Ignoring these rules leads to high fines and legal risks.

Many are also unaware of the financial aid available for the transition to sustainable practices. Failing to find out about these subsidies for electric vehicles can cause significant financial losses for the company.

Staying informed is essential. Regulatory changes occur frequently, and failure to follow them can lead to non-compliance. Ignorance of tax incentives can also damage a company's reputation.

To avoid these mistakes, it's crucial to be proactive. Keeping in close touch with the relevant authorities helps to maintain good quality management and compliance with ISO standards and other regulations.

Conclusion

Environmental standards in logistics are changing. In 2025, companies must comply with strict rules. Complying with these standards brings benefits. It improves their image and strengthens their competitiveness.

Logisticians also need to prepare for future regulatory changes. Acting now is the key to staying up to date.

FAQ

1. What is HQE certification in the real estate sector?

HQE certification is a label that defines levels of environmental protection for buildings. It is a global reference system that takes into account various environmental concerns during construction.

2. How does BREEAM certification apply to logistics?

BREEAM is a certification body that assesses a building's level of environmental performance. It is adapted to the different operating modes of logistics, such as the flow of goods.

3. What is LEED certification, and how does it apply to logistics?

LEED certification is a globally recognized environmental label. It certifies that a building has been constructed in accordance with strict environmental standards, including those applicable to logistics.

4. How does ISO 26000 influence environmental standards in logistics?

ISO 26000 is a standard for corporate social responsibility (CSR) in transport and logistics. It defines the essential principles and themes for responsible management, including adaptation to climate change.

5. What is the first step in obtaining environmental certification for my logistics company?

The first step is usually to carry out a study to understand your specific needs in terms of environmental protection. Then you can choose the label that best suits your situation, such as HQE, BREEAM or LEED.

6. How will environmental standards in logistics be implemented in 2025?

Environmental standards will be implemented by various certification bodies. These bodies will define requirements for each sector, including logistics, based on global and sensitive environmental concerns.