WONDERING HOW TO GET SMARTWAY CERTIFIED? First, let's focus on the basics. What is SmartWay?  SmartWay™ Partnership is a program sponsored and administered by the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). The EPA describes SmartWay as "a partnership among government, business and consumers to protect our environment, reduce fuel consumption, and improve our air quality for future generations."There are three partnership categories: Shippers, Carriers & Logistics Providers Why Should I Become a SmartWay Partner? Manufacturers and distributors seek SmartWay certification for a number of reasons. Proactive companies apply to improve their environmental performance, streamline their distribution and enjoy the public relations opportunities that come from community goodwill. Reactive companies recognize that as the most influential purchasers in the market demand more environmental accountability from their suppliers, competitive advantage will go to the companies that are involved with sustainability initiatives. How Do I Get SmartWay Certified? In order to apply for SmartWay certification, a shipper, carrier or logistics provider must first sign the EPA's Partnership Agreement. Next, the company must calculate its total emission output as it relates to freight activities (i.e. establish a Model). These two steps usually result in SmartWay certification. In order to remain certified, the company must develop an Action Plan outlining a strategy to further reduce emissions by a certain percentage each year. The EPA uses the Action Plan to determine whether a company maintains its partnership status. Where Do I Start? We at M33 Integrated Solutions are SmartWay-certified. As a global logistics company, we received the EPA's highest overall rating of 1.25. We've helped manufacturers and distributors of all sizes learn how to measure and manage their transportation-related emissions and develop a workable plan to increase efficiencies. The strategies we co-develop with our clients often result in better visibility and cost reductions across their distribution models. So not only are they able to tout their green credentials to an increasingly eco-conscious customer base, but they become leaner in the process. If you would like to discuss "next steps" in exploring SmartWay certification for your company, please contact us. |
