Amazon has announced the launch of its first UK micromobility hub for more sustainable deliveries in Central London.
E-cargo bikes and walkers from the new Hackney hub, along with Amazon’s existing electric fleet, will make more than five million deliveries a year across 10% of London’s Ultra Low Emission Zone.
Amazon has also unveiled plans to roll out large scale solar panel installations at facilities in Manchester, Coalville, Haydock, Bristol and Milton Keynes before the end of 2022. The company will look to double the number of on-site solar energy projects in the UK by 2024.
These initiatives move the company closer to its Shipment Zero mission – to deliver 50% of Amazon shipments with net-zero carbon by 2030 – and the ultimate goal of being net-zero carbon by 2040.
John Boumphrey, UK country manager, Amazon, said, “Amazon is driving toward a global net-zero carbon future. One way we’re doing that is through the transformation of our transportation networks. Our new e-cargo bikes, walkers and growing electric vehicle delivery fleet will help us make more zero emission customer deliveries than ever before across London and the UK in the coming months.
“Doubling the number of on-site solar projects at our facilities across the UK further demonstrates our ambition to power our operations with 100% renewable energy by 2025 and represents an important step on our journey to be net-zero carbon by 2040,” he said.
Amazon has over 1,000 electric delivery vans on the road in the UK, which last year helped the company deliver more than 45 million packages. Its fleet of zero-emission vehicles will expand further as more e-cargo delivery hubs are expected to launch across the UK in the coming months. Amazon also recently announced five new fully electric Heavy Goods Vehicles. These 37-metric ton vehicles are among the first in the UK, the first in Amazon’s fleet, and replace traditional diesel trucks.
Trudy Harrison, UK transport minister, said, “Industry and government are both working hard to achieve our net zero goals and support the growth of sustainable transport that will help create economic opportunities and support thousands of jobs across the UK. Amazon’s plans will not only boost green job opportunities, but ensure that customers will continue to receive their packages while working to protect our planet from climate change.”
Mete Coban, Hackney council cabinet member for environment and transport, said, “Tackling transport emissions is key if we’re to reach net zero. We’re really pleased to have worked with Amazon to support them to take traditional vans off the streets and replace them with e-cargo bikes. This will help to reduce emissions and improve air quality for people in Hackney and beyond.”