Department of Transport announces new HGV Eco Driving Standard
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From: Department of Transport
- Published on: 27 February 2025
- Last updated on: 12 April 2025
The Department of Transport has today proudly launched the new HGV Eco Driving Standard, a significant step toward supporting more sustainable and efficient driving practices within the heavy goods vehicle (HGV) sector.
The HGV Eco Driving Standard aims to improve driving efficiency and reduce environmental impact through a comprehensive set of guidelines and best practices for HGV eco driving courses. This new standard focuses on reducing fuel consumption, enhancing energy management, and improving maintenance efficiencies, thereby helping reduce costs for a sector that is key to economic activity in Ireland.
The standard was developed by the Chartered Institute of Logistics & Transport (CILT) for the Department of Transport.
Minister for Transport Darragh O’Brien said:
“The introduction of the HGV Eco Driving Standard is an important development in our efforts to create a more sustainable transport sector. By adopting these practices, we can significantly reduce the carbon footprint of the existing vehicle fleet and promote a greener future for Ireland.”
Minister of State for International and Road Transport, Seán Canney, added:
“This new standard not only supports our environmental goals but also enhances the efficiency and safety of HGV operations. We encourage all training providers to consider applying to achieve the standard and contribute to a more sustainable transport industry.”
The HGV Eco Driving Standard is voluntary and open to all training providers who wish to apply. There is no cost to training providers for the evaluation and certification. The Freight Transport Association Ireland (FTAI) has been approved as a HGV Eco Driving Training Provider, following assessment under the standard.
Providers can contact CILT for more information on the application process. For more details, please visit the CILT’s website or contact info@cilt.ie
The new standard was launched on the same day as the Road Haulage Strategy Stakeholder Session, which was held in the Department of Transport. The strategy runs from 2022 to 2031 and focuses on generating efficiencies, improving standards, securing jobs and helping the road freight sector move to a low-carbon future.
The new Ministers were pleased to meet stakeholders from the road freight sector and hear about ongoing implementation of the strategy. The new standard marks an important step for the sector as it transitions to an environmentally sustainable and operationally effective future.
Notes
Key features of the HGV Eco Driving Standard
- Comprehensive Training Programs: The standard outlines requirements for eco-driving coaching programs, ensuring that drivers receive thorough training in efficient driving techniques
- Safety Protocols: Emphasis on safety protocols to protect drivers, vehicles and other road users
- Performance Measurement: Implementation of performance measurement tools to track and improve driving efficiency
- Assessment and Approval: A rigorous assessment process for training providers to ensure compliance with the standard
About The Chartered Institute of Logistics & Transport (CILT): The Chartered Institute of Logistics & Transport is a leading professional body for those involved in logistics, supply chains and transport. CILT’s key remit is to promote professionalism and enhance standards in the logistics, transport and supply chain sector through the provision of education and services.
About The Freight Transport Association, Ireland (FTAI): The Freight Transport Association Ireland is a multimodal representative trade association. It supports the freight, distribution, passenger and logistics sectors by promoting efficient and sustainable logistics. FTAI provides guidance on fleet operational compliance, offers training, and advocates for its members' interests in areas such as Brexit, skills shortages and decarbonisation.