Science based targets set as taxi app FREENOW eyes drive to sustainable growth

Image credit: FREENOW

FREENOW, the prominent taxi app, are said to be making significant strides towards sustainability, aiming to become a net-zero platform.

The company has established science-based near-term targets to ensure their greenhouse gas (GHG) emission reduction goals align with the highest industry standards. An extensive assessment of their activities has been conducted to further reduce their emissions footprint.

In the past year, 46% of FREENOW trips were made using zero-emission (ZEV) or hybrid taxis and private hire vehicles (PHV). There was a notable 34% increase in zero-emission taxis and PHVs in 2023 compared to the previous year. FREENOW now boasts the largest number of electric options in major cities such as London and Dublin.

The company's expanding multi-mobility offering further enhances its sustainability efforts. Notably, 78% of all shared vehicle trips on the platform, including eScooters, eMopeds, eBikes, and carsharing, utilised zero-emission vehicles. This initiative resulted in a savings of 2,067 tonnes of CO2 with electric shared vehicles.

FREENOW is taking a proactive and accountable approach to sustainable growth by focusing on concrete actions, initiatives, and investments that drive substantial change. These measures include partnerships to aid drivers in transitioning to ZEV cars, accessing charging infrastructure, offering financial incentives, and providing education through ZEV roadshows and events to connect drivers with partners and experts.

With validated Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi) goals, FREENOW is dedicated to reducing GHG emissions. By 2030, the company aims to cut indirect GHG emissions from electricity, heat, or steam consumption by 42% from a 2021 baseline. Additionally, FREENOW commits to reducing GHG emissions in its value chain by 52% per service kilometre, encompassing marketplace rides, within the same timeframe.

Felix Brand, Chief Strategy Officer of FREE NOW, said: “At FREENOW, we strongly believe in sustainable mobility as a key pillar for cities development, through pollution and congestion reduction. In the face of urgent environmental challenges, our commitment to sustainable practices and operations stands as the cornerstone of our journey in the mobility industry.

“We are delighted to announce that in 2024 our near term science-based targets have been approved, marking a significant milestone in our efforts to reducing our carbon footprint and contributing to a sustainable future. By aligning our goals with scientific standards, we are taking proactive steps to mitigate our environmental impact and pave the way for a greener, more resilient world."