All sectors of the economy are increasingly responsible for reducing their CO2 emissions quickly and comprehensively in order to achieve the European Union's climate targets. Logistics companies are also called upon to significantly reduce their CO2 emissions. This is because the logistics sector is responsible for around 10% of global CO2 emissions, with road freight transport accounting for the largest share. Decarbonization is also particularly challenging in this sector.

The European market for road freight transport is highly fragmented and characterized by intense price competition. 99% of transport service providers have fewer than 50 employees and are therefore classified as SMEs. Accordingly, the responsibility for transport-related CO2 emissions lies largely in the hands of many small companies.

In order to be able to effectively reduce CO2 emissions, their correct recording and allocation is of great importance. However, various studies show that transport service providers have a lot of catching up to do in this area and that clients have so far shown little interest in CO2 data from operating companies. Instead, their emission calculations are often based on modeled standard emission factors. These calculations can differ greatly from the actual CO2 emissions generated, meaning that measures taken to reduce CO2 emissions remain invisible.

The aim of the research project is to support small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in comprehensively recording and reporting their transport emissions. The aim is to develop a practical and easy-to-use procedure that enables companies to systematically record and report their transport emissions.