Easy-to-use calculator using EPA data shows weight savings, fuel savings and reduced greenhouse gas emissions by switching from multi-use wood pallets
ORLANDO, Fla. – July 22, 2008 – Intelligent Global Pooling Systems (iGPS Company LLC), operator of the world’s first all-plastic pallet pool with embedded radio frequency identification tags (RFID), today released an online calculator that enables companies to instantly see the reduction in fuel use and greenhouse gas emissions made possible by switching to iGPS’s all-plastic pallet from the typical multi-use wood pallet. Located on the iGPS web site (www.igps.net), the calculator uses data issued by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency that quantifies relationships between cargo weight, fuel usage and greenhouse gas emissions.
“The weight difference between our all-plastic pallet and the typical multi-use wood pallet is dramatic: twenty-seven pounds,” said Bob Moore, Chairman and CEO of iGPS. “As a result, shippers shed hundreds, if not thousands, of pounds of unnecessary weight with each truckload when they switch from typical multi-use wood pallets to our lighter iGPS plastic pallet. Lessening weight reduces fuel consumption, which in turn reduces greenhouse gas emissions. With record high fuel costs, any measure to conserve is important.”
The calculator is extremely simple to use. Companies input the number of truckloads they ship annually, along with the average number of pallets per truckload.Utilizing EPA data, the calculator instantly displays the total annual reduction in weight shippers would realize by utilizing iGPS’s lighter pallets, the fuel savings that would result and associated greenhouse gas emissions that would be avoided.
“Eliminating unnecessary weight in the supply chain is absolutely critical,” continued Moore. “We’re thrilled to share this calculator as a resource for shippers to help them realize the dramatic environmental benefits that result when they switch to iGPS.”
The iGPS calculator focuses exclusively on the environmental benefits resulting from the lighter weight of iGPS’ all-plastic pallet.However, even more greenhouse gases are reduced considering that iGPS’ plastic pallets eliminate deforestation resulting from the manufacture of wood pallets.Research shows that nearly 40% of all hard wood harvested in the U.S. is used for wood pallets, and it is well documented that deforestation is another major contributor to global climate change.
In just two years, iGPS has revolutionized the way goods are being shipped throughout the U.S. supply chain. Its all-plastic RFID and bar code enabled pallet meets all GMA requirements, weighs 30% less than typical multi-use wood pallets, is UL 2335 certified fire-retardant and 100% recyclable. Many of America’s top companies now ship on iGPS pallets, including QTG (Quaker Tropicana Gatorade), the Chicago-based division of PepsiCo, Dole Fresh Vegetables, Imperial Sugar, Pilgrim’s Pride, Martori Farms and other top-tier brands.
About iGPS
iGPS is the world’s first company to provide manufacturers and retailers with an all-plastic pallet pool with embedded RFID-tags. iGPS’s state-of-the-art pallets are 30% lighter than wood, which saves on transport costs, are easier to handle and eliminate protruding nails and splinters that cause workplace injuries and damaged equipment. In addition, embedded RFID tags enable shippers and receivers to track and trace shipments in real time. Launched in March 2006, the company is led by pallet and supply chain veterans with decades of experience. iGPS (www.igps.net) is headquartered in Orlando, FL., with offices in Dallas, New York and Bentonville, Arkansas.
Pegasus Capital Advisors, a private equity fund manager with offices in New York and Cos Cob, CT, retains a majority interest in iGPS. Founded in 1995, Pegasus provides capital to middle market companies across a wide range of industries, with particular focus on businesses that make a meaningful contribution to society by positively affecting the environment, contributing to sustainability and enabling healthy living. www.pcalp.com
