Unisource Logistics Solutions — a division of Unisource Worldwide, Inc. — announced it has joined the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) SmartWay  Transport Partnership.

Unisource also earned the SmartWay Transport Partner logo, Logistics category, a mark of excellence for companies demonstrating superior environmental performance for freight operations.

"We are extremely pleased to earn this designation,” said Andy Yearout, Vice President of Unisource Logistics Solutions.  “The recognition underscores Unisource Logistics Solutions’ achievement in environmentally responsible freight and logistics practices.”  He added, “We are proud to be among the leading organizations across the many industry sectors committed to reducing environmental impact.”

Launched in 2004, SmartWay is an EPA program that reduces transportation-related emissions by creating incentives to improve supply chain fuel efficiency.  SmartWay Transport Partnership is a government/industry collaboration among freight shippers, carriers, logistics companies and other stakeholders, to voluntarily achieve improved fuel efficiency and reduce environmental impacts from freight transport. Participating companies use performance-based measurements that benchmark and inform the industry and the marketplace on freight operations, energy and environmental efficiency.

SmartWay Partners demonstrate to their customers and clients that they are taking responsibility for the emissions associated with transporting goods, are committed to corporate social responsibility and sustainable business practices, and are reducing their carbon footprint.  To date, the partnership includes nearly 2,900 companies and associations committed to improving fuel efficiency.

Since 2004, SmartWay Partners report:

• Saving 55 million barrels of fuel ($6.5 billion in fuel costs saved)
• Eliminating 23.6 million metric tons of CO2
• Eliminating 478,000 tons of NO