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FedEx has introduced FedEx Sustainability Insights, a new service that provides clients in Africa with emissions data on FedEx network shipments.

The company says customers can utilise the data to make more informed decisions about their future shipping strategy, reducing their environmental impact.

FedEx Data Works developed the cloud-based data engine, which estimates CO2 emissions using near-real-time FedEx network data.

Customers in South Africa, Botswana, Malawi, Namibia, Eswatini, Zambia, Kenya and Nigeria can now use FedEx Sustainability Insights.

They can examine individual tracking number emissions data, as well as aggregate historical data for their accounts. The tool displays data for all qualifying FedEx Express shipments, including mode of conveyance, service type and country or territory.

FedEx Sustainability Insights calculates greenhouse gas emissions (CO2 equivalent) using a methodology that adheres to the world norms, including industry-standard emission factors, utilities and transportation-specific operational metrics, says the company.

FedEx notes that Sustainability Insights was created in response to sustainability demands in organisations of all sizes.

“With sustainability as a strategic focus for all businesses, FedEx Sustainability Insights is a tool that will provide customers with better visibility of emissions throughout their supply chains, as well as enhance reporting and strategic future planning.”

"Sustainability reporting and use of data to inform decision-making has become a business priority. Consumers are valuing sustainability in their purchase decisions at the same time," comments Kami Viswanathan, senior vice-president of FedEx Express Middle East, Indian Subcontinent and Africa operations.

"FedEx Sustainability Insights is designed to provide our customers with near-real-time visibility into their emissions data, empowering them to make data-driven decisions and improve transparency in their sustainability reporting."

The new service complements the company's current efforts to become carbon-neutral by 2040.

According to FedEx, it is concentrating its efforts on electrification of FedEx pickup and delivery vehicles, more efficient facilities, fuels and fleets, and investments in natural carbon capture.

“FedEx Sustainability Insights will help the company achieve this goal by delivering data-backed predictive insights and modelling to identify more potential for network efficiency.”