Sustainability is not an empty promise for Munckhof

Sustainability is a top priority for contract carrier Munckhof. Sustainability manager Hans van Dam talks about the role that sustainability and inclusivity play in all activities. Ambitions for a clean fleet and further sustainability are on track.

Munckhof provides a wide range of transport services, from business travel and healthcare transport to mobility solutions for education. Van Dam explains: "My job is to identify the themes that are important to our group and how we translate that strategy into practical actions within Munckhof and our Belgian partner Hansea. We do this with concrete, measurable goals: CO² reduction, less tap water consumption, electrification of the vehicle fleet, and the well-being of our people. These are not empty ambitions, but a structured approach that allows us to deliver on our promises."

Responsibility

To make sustainability tangible, Munckhof developed the Sustainability Steering Wheel: a visual tool that clearly shows what the company stands for. “We take responsibility for our people, travelers, communities, and the planet,” says Van Dam.

The electrification of the fleet is a priority. Currently, 40% of the vehicles are fully electric, and another 40% run on green gas. Less than 20% still run on fossil fuels. “We will continue to electrify and encourage a calm driving style, which, in addition to more economical driving, also reduces tire wear. That's good for the environment,” says Van Dam.

A different way of thinking

However, there are also challenges. Electric driving requires a different way of thinking. “You can no longer just quickly fill up like you would with a diesel bus. You have to plan carefully so that you don't have to charge while driving.” According to Van Dam, even skeptics are becoming increasingly convinced: “The range of electric vehicles is now more than sufficient for most of our routes. And that range is only increasing, while costs are falling. Safety and comfort are always our top priorities.”

The ambitions are big and realistic. Munckhof aims to have a fully electric fleet of taxis within ten years. Electric coaches are still under development, but the first is expected in 2027. In addition, Munckhof wants to use rainwater instead of tap water at all locations with a car wash. Employees are also involved through a sustainability panel.

Sustainability is a compass at Munckhof, not an afterthought. Van Dam concludes: “We do what is necessary—structurally and measurably—to make a positive impact.”