‘75% in Kol, Asansol believe EV delivery fleet can curb pollution’
Times of India | 10 September 2024
Kolkata: A survey released on Monday to mark World Electric Vehicles Day stated that 75% respondents in Kolkata and Asansol view the adoption of electric vehicles (EVs) in last-mile delivery services as a key strategy for combating air pollution. Last-mile delivery services refer to the transportation of goods from its distribution hub to the customer’s doorsteps. This survey has been conducted by the Sustainable Mobility Network (SMN).
Additionally, 50% of Bengal residents expressed a willingness to switch to brands committed to emission reduction, with Kolkata leading at 61%. The survey aimed to assess public opinion on how brands such as Amazon, Flipkart, Zomato, and Swiggy — contributors of the last-mile delivery sector — are handling their fleet’s transition to EVs. Currently, this sector is responsible for emitting 500,000 tonnes of CO2 annually, making it a significant contributor to air pollution. The survey also revealed widespread dissatisfaction with air quality, with 50.4% of Kolkata residents and 61.8% of Asansol residents expressing concerns about pollution. “With a 95% confidence level and a 5% margin of error, the data offers reliable insights into consumer awareness and expectations, serving as a critical tool for companies to refine their sustainability strategies,” said Gajendra Rai, director of Research at CMSR Consultants.
A striking insight from the survey is the low level of awareness about delivery companies’ efforts to curb pollution. Only 14% of respondents in West Bengal felt informed about these initiatives