June 28, 2017 Vol. 14 No. 13

Two weeks ago I wondered aloud if big, well heeled outfits like UPS could fill the gap that seems bound to exist as Washington seriously diminishes its investment in forward-looking technology. With climate-change deniers and — incredibly — fans of coal in charge down there, it’s already clear that adventuresome science and striving research will get little or no respect. A shame, to say the very least.

But, I asked, is there hope?

I went on to describe the UPS plan to deploy a prototype extended-range Fuel Cell Advanced technology vehicle, with on-the-road testing set to start later this year in California. The company is working with the U.S. Department of Energy and other partners to design a first-of-its-kind, zero-tailpipe-emissions, medium-duty delivery truck that meets the same route and range requirements of the parcel giant’s existing conventional-fuel vehicles.

This truck is self-contained, will use the onboard fuel cell to generate electricity and keep things rolling. It’s an important step toward demonstrating the commercial viability of zero-emissions trucks.

It’s my guess that the DOE’s involvement will not be substantial in the face of coming budget cuts.

Continuing in the same vein, I was encouraged yesterday to read the newly published 2016 UPS Corporate Sustainability Report. The company announced aggressive new goals to add more alternative-fuel and advanced-technology vehicles to its fleet while increasing its reliance on renewable energy sources. Those goals support the company’s commitment to reduce its absolute greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from global ground operations 12% by 2025, a goal developed using a methodology approved by the ‘Science Based Targets’ initiative.

AS IF HE READ MY IMPLICIT PLEA that companies like UPS must continue exploring the technologies of the near and more distant future, even with shrinking government support, the company’s chief had comforting things to say…