J.B. Hunt publishes new report on 2020 ESG achievements

Lowell-based carrier J.B. Hunt Transport Services Inc. released Friday (July 16) a new report that highlights its 2020 achievements in environmental, social and corporate governance. According to a news release, the 2020 Sustainability Report is the first of its kind for the company.

“With the expansion of our environmental, social and governance (ESG) disclosures in this 2020 Sustainability Report, we are taking the next step on our sustainability journey,” said John Roberts, president and CEO of J.B. Hunt. “We are excited about this progress and are proud to be leaders in sustainable transportation, helping to drive the industry toward a low-carbon future.”

Following are some 2020 highlights:

• Avoided nearly 3.5 million metric tons of emissions by converting over-the-road loads to intermodal
• Helped company drivers avoid about 4.3 million miles of driving a truck without freight (empty miles) using technology platform J.B. Hunt 360
• Completed first delivery with heavy-duty Class 8 electric vehicle
• Added fifth employee resource group, PLUS(+), for LGBTQIA+ employees and supporters
• Celebrated the company’s first employee who’s driven 5 million miles without a preventable accident.

Also, according to the report, the company is developing two solar arrays that are expected to meet more than 80% of the electricity demand for its corporate headquarters. In 2020, J.B. Hunt worked with third-party consultant Edison Energy to help design the solar project. NextEra Energy will build the project. It will include a 5-megawatt AC ground-mount system “within brief driving distance” of the company’s headquarters, according to the report. A second 420-kilowatt AC array will provide cover for more than 140 employee vehicles. Ten electric vehicle chargers will be installed under the carport capable of charging 20 electric vehicles simultaneously. A groundbreaking is set for 2022. The project is pending approval with the Arkansas Public Service Commission.

J.B. Hunt has goals to reduce short- and long-term carbon emissions. By 2025, J.B. Hunt plans to reduce its emissions by 3% from 2019 levels. By 2035, the company plans to convert at least 25% of its day cab and straight truck fleet to an alternative power fuel source. Since 2014, the company has reduced carbon emissions by 12%. However, between 2018 and 2020, emissions increased by 5.7%, while company-operated ton-miles rose by 15.6%, the report shows.

Link here for a copy of the 2020 Sustainability Report.