Success Stories: How Municipalities Are Benefiting from Advanced Fuel Management Systems

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In today’s rapidly evolving world, the integration of advanced technologies has become the driving force behind efficiency and sustainability in various sectors. One such sector that’s reaping the rewards of innovation is municipal vehicle fleets, thanks to advanced fuel management systems. These systems have transformed the way municipalities manage their fuel consumption, budgets, and overall operations. Let’s delve into some success stories that highlight the remarkable benefits municipalities are gaining from these cutting-edge solutions.

 

  1. City of Seattle, Washington: The City of Seattle implemented a comprehensive fuel management system across its diverse fleet of vehicles, ranging from police cars to fire trucks and waste management vehicles. By integrating real-time data on fuel consumption and vehicle performance, the city was able to optimize routes, reduce idle times, and monitor fuel efficiency. This initiative resulted in a significant reduction in fuel costs and emissions. The data-driven insights also facilitated better decision-making regarding maintenance schedules and vehicle replacements.
  2. City of Indianapolis, Indiana: Facing the challenge of increasing fuel costs, the City of Indianapolis turned to a sophisticated fuel management system. This system allowed them to closely monitor fuel usage patterns and identify irregularities. As a result, they discovered instances of unauthorized fuel purchases and inefficient routes. By addressing these issues, the city achieved substantial cost savings and improved operational efficiency across their fleet of vehicles, which includes everything from public transit buses to garbage trucks.
  3. City of Austin, Texas: The City of Austin adopted a data-driven approach to fuel management, leveraging advanced technology to optimize fuel consumption and reduce emissions. Their fuel management system tracked fuel usage for different vehicle types and departments, enabling them to spot trends and implement strategies to reduce fuel consumption. For example, they identified specific vehicles that were consistently consuming more fuel than others and took corrective actions, resulting in reduced fuel expenses and enhanced fleet performance.
  4. City of Portland, Oregon: The City of Portland focused on sustainability by implementing a fuel management system that integrated with their broader environmental goals. They utilized the system to monitor fuel consumption, emissions, and maintenance needs. By analyzing the data, they identified opportunities to transition certain vehicles to electric or hybrid alternatives, further reducing their reliance on fossil fuels and contributing to a greener fleet.
  5. City of New York, New York: New York City’s extensive fleet includes various vehicles for public services and emergency response. By implementing a comprehensive fuel management system, they were able to track fuel usage in real-time, leading to more efficient fuel allocation and consumption. This initiative not only reduced fuel costs, but also improved response times for emergency services by optimizing routes.
  6. City of Los Angeles, California: Los Angeles deployed a fuel management system that streamlined fuel tracking and reporting across its diverse fleet. By centralizing data, they gained insights into fuel consumption trends, enabling them to make data-driven decisions to reduce costs and emissions. Additionally, the system helped identify potential maintenance issues early, preventing breakdowns and optimizing fleet availability.

These examples highlight how various cities across the United States have successfully utilized fuel management systems to improve their fleet operations. By harnessing the power of data and technology, these cities achieved significant cost savings, enhanced efficiency, and contributed to their environmental sustainability goals.

With Link2Pump you can have a complete fuel log from each vehicle and monitor fuel use for all vehicles using the municipal pumps. If you would like to learn more about our solution and are searching for alternatives to manage your municipal fleet, please get in touch.

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Fuel Management Challenges and Solutions in the Concrete Market: Insights for Industry Professionals

Fuel management is a critical aspect of the concrete market, impacting both operational expenses and environmental sustainability. However, the unique characteristics of the concrete industry present specific challenges when it comes to fuel management. Let’s explore the key challenges faced by professionals in the concrete market and provide practical solutions to overcome them. By implementing effective fuel management strategies, concrete companies can optimize operations, reduce costs, and promote sustainability.

High Fuel Consumption Rates

Concrete production and transportation processes require significant fuel consumption. The machinery and equipment involved, such as concrete mixers, pumps, and delivery trucks, consume substantial amounts of fuel. To address this challenge, concrete companies can employ various techniques, including regular equipment maintenance, adopting fuel-efficient technologies, optimizing delivery routes, and embracing eco-driving practices. By reducing fuel consumption rates, companies can achieve substantial cost savings and minimize their environmental footprint.

 

Fluctuating Fuel Prices

The concrete market is sensitive to fluctuating fuel prices, which can impact overall profitability. To mitigate this challenge, concrete companies should establish effective fuel price monitoring mechanisms and develop fuel procurement strategies. This may involve negotiating favorable fuel supply contracts, exploring bulk purchase options, and collaborating with fuel suppliers to stay informed about market trends and potential price fluctuations. By carefully managing fuel procurement, concrete companies can minimize the financial impact of volatile fuel prices and maintain stable operational costs.

Fuel Theft and Unauthorized Usage 

Fuel theft and unauthorized usage are significant concerns in the concrete market, leading to substantial financial losses. Implementing robust security measures such as fuel monitoring systems, access control mechanisms, and surveillance cameras can help prevent fuel theft and detect unauthorized fuel usage. Additionally, creating a culture of accountability and conducting regular audits can deter fraudulent activities. By addressing fuel security, concrete companies can safeguard their assets, reduce losses, and improve overall operational efficiency.

Link2Pump is a cloud-based fuel management system tailored for businesses pumping fuel from bulk storage tanks. Fleet managers and business owners can prevent fuel theft, simplify the reporting process and support decision-making with comprehensive data in real time by managing and automating the fueling process.

Complex Logistics and Delivery Challenges

The concrete market involves complex logistics and delivery operations, which can impact fuel management. Optimizing delivery routes, utilizing telematics systems for real-time fleet tracking, and implementing route planning software can help streamline operations and minimize fuel consumption. Additionally, effective communication between dispatchers, drivers, and construction sites is crucial to avoid unnecessary mileage and optimize fuel efficiency. By adopting efficient logistics practices, concrete companies can enhance fuel management, improve delivery timelines, and reduce operational costs.

Link2Pump Pedestal automates the fueling process on-site, capturing data points you need and sending them to your online account in real-time. Account access is available from any device, anywhere, any time. Fully compatible with mechanical, digital and electronic dispensers, each unit controls up to 4 fueling points and features extensive data input options and restriction capabilities.

We also offer mobile applications that pack the same technological power from L2P Pedestal into a compact enclosure to fit fuel trucks, tanker trucks or any kind of mobile tanks. Whether used solo or combined with an L2P pedestal, filling up equipment out in the field is safely tracked in real-time, with in-unit and cloud backup for added security.

As a result, you can enhance the execution of delivery scheduling and fuel distribution management, preserving cash without compromising efficiency or timeframes.

Environmental Impact and Sustainability

The concrete market faces increasing pressure to reduce its environmental impact. Concrete companies can address this challenge by embracing sustainable practices such as incorporating alternative fuels, using energy-efficient equipment, and investing in renewable energy sources. Adopting eco-friendly technologies like electric concrete mixers or exploring the use of biofuels can significantly reduce carbon emissions associated with fuel consumption. Additionally, concrete companies can promote recycling and waste management practices to further enhance sustainability. By prioritizing environmental considerations, concrete companies can position themselves as environmentally responsible leaders in the industry.

Fuel management challenges in the concrete market require proactive solutions to optimize operations, control costs, and promote sustainability. By focusing on reducing fuel consumption rates, monitoring and managing fuel prices effectively, addressing fuel security concerns, streamlining logistics and delivery processes, and embracing sustainable practices, concrete companies can overcome these challenges and achieve greater efficiency and profitability. Implementing advanced fuel management technologies, fostering a culture of fuel efficiency, and staying informed about industry trends are key steps towards successful fuel management in the concrete market. By adopting these insights, concrete industry professionals can pave the way for a more sustainable and profitable future.

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Exploring the Future of Wireless Networks: What You Need to Know About 6G

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Sixth-generation (6G) wireless technology is being developed as the successor to the 5G technology that is currently being deployed around the world. 6G promises to provide even faster speeds, greater capacity, and new capabilities compared to existing wireless networks. While it is still in the early stages of development, researchers and industry leaders are already looking ahead to 6G as the next step in the evolution of wireless networks.

One of the primary goals of 6G is to provide even faster data speeds and greater network capacity than 5G. Industry experts predict that 6G could achieve data transfer rates of up to 1 terabyte per second, which is roughly 100 times faster than 5G. This increase in speed and capacity could enable new applications that are currently not possible on 5G networks, such as real-time augmented reality and haptic feedback.

Another key feature of 6G is expected to be ultra-low latency, or the amount of time it takes for data to travel from one point to another. This could enable new applications such as remote surgery, where even a small delay in data transmission could be critical. With 6G’s low latency, doctors could perform surgery on a patient located in a remote location thanks to robotic arms, which would be controlled in real-time.

With 6G, AI is expected to play a much larger role in the functioning of the network. This could include using AI to optimize network performance, manage resources more efficiently, and enable new applications and services. For example, AI could be used to monitor network traffic in real-time, identifying patterns and adjusting the network to optimize performance.

6G is expected to make use of higher frequency bands than 5G, which could provide even greater capacity and faster speeds. However, these higher frequencies may also present new challenges in terms of signal propagation and coverage. To address these challenges, researchers are exploring new approaches, such as using massive MIMO (multiple-input, multiple-output) technology and beam forming.

As with any wireless technology, security will be a major concern with 6G. Researchers are already exploring new approaches to security, such as using blockchain technology to secure the network and incorporating advanced encryption methods. It is likely that security will be an area of continued focus as 6G networks are developed and deployed.

While it’s still very early days for 6G, some experts predict that commercial deployments could begin as early as 2030. However, this timeline could be affected by a variety of factors, including regulatory approvals, technological challenges, and market demand. Regardless of when 6G is commercialized, it is clear that this technology has the potential to transform the way we communicate and enable new applications and services that were previously not possible.

 

And how will it help fleets? 

While 6G is still in the early stages of development, there are several potential ways in which it could benefit fleets and improve fleet operations:

Improved Connectivity
With faster data speeds and greater capacity, 6G could provide fleets with even more reliable and robust connectivity than 5G. This could enable real-time tracking and monitoring of vehicles, as well as more efficient communication between drivers, dispatchers, and other stakeholders.

Increased Automation
As fleets become more automated and autonomous, they will rely increasingly on high-speed, low-latency connectivity to enable communication between vehicles and with the surrounding infrastructure. 6G could provide the kind of ultra-reliable, low-latency connectivity needed to support these advanced applications.

Enhanced Safety and Security
With its advanced encryption methods and other security features, 6G could help fleets to better protect their data and operations against cyber threats. Additionally, the low-latency and high-capacity connectivity offered by 6G could enable new safety features, such as real-time hazard detection and collision avoidance systems.

Improved Efficiency
With greater connectivity and automation, fleets could become even more efficient, enabling them to optimize their routes, reduce fuel consumption, and minimize downtime. This could lead to significant cost savings and environmental benefits.

New Applications and Services
With its potential to enable new capabilities such as real-time augmented reality and remote operation, 6G could open up new opportunities for fleets to provide innovative services to their customers.

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Landscaping trends for 2023

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Landscaping is an ever-evolving field that incorporates various aspects of design, horticulture, and environmental management. As the world becomes increasingly aware of the impact of human activities on the environment, the demand for sustainable and eco-friendly landscaping solutions has increased. In this article, we will take a look at some of the latest landscaping trends that are shaping the future of this industry.

Sustainable Landscaping
Sustainable landscaping refers to the design and maintenance of outdoor spaces in an environmentally responsible manner. This includes using native plants that are well-adapted to the local climate, reducing water usage through the use of drought-tolerant plants, and implementing sustainable irrigation systems. The use of natural materials, such as wood and stone, instead of synthetic ones is also becoming more popular in sustainable landscaping.

Vertical Gardens
Vertical gardens are a creative way to add greenery to urban environments, where space is limited. They are designed to grow up instead of out and can be attached to walls, fences, or even free-standing structures. Vertical gardens are not only a beautiful addition to outdoor spaces, but they also provide numerous environmental benefits, such as reducing air pollution and providing shade.

Outdoor Living Spaces
The trend of creating outdoor living spaces that can be used for entertaining, dining, and relaxing continues to gain popularity. Outdoor kitchens, fire pits, and comfortable seating areas are becoming increasingly common in residential and commercial landscaping projects. These spaces can be designed to blend in with the natural surroundings, using materials like stone, wood, and gravel.

Low Maintenance Landscaping
With busy schedules, many homeowners are looking for low maintenance landscaping options. The use of native plants that are well-adapted to local conditions, as well as the implementation of sustainable practices, can help reduce the amount of time and effort required for landscaping maintenance. The use of raised garden beds and mulch is also becoming more popular, as these methods help retain moisture in the soil and reduce the need for watering.

Green Roofs
Green roofs, also known as living roofs, are becoming more popular in commercial and residential landscaping. These roofs are covered with vegetation and soil, and can provide numerous benefits, such as reducing heat absorption and improving air quality. Green roofs are also a great way to add greenery to urban environments and provide habitat for wildlife.

Landscape Industry Statistics

According to statistics from the National Association of Landscape Professionals (NALP), the landscape industry in the United States generates over $100 billion in annual revenue and employs approximately one million people. The industry has grown steadily over the past decade, with a compound annual growth rate of 3.8% between 2015 and 2019. This growth is projected to continue in the coming years, driven by factors such as population growth, urbanization, and increased demand for sustainable and environmentally friendly landscaping practices.

One of the most significant segments of the landscape industry is lawn care services. According to a report from IBISWorld, the lawn care services industry in the United States generated $87.6 billion in revenue in 2020 and employed over one million people. This industry is projected to continue growing in the coming years, with increasing demand for services such as fertilization, weed control, and pest management.

According to the NALP, the landscape design and installation segment of the industry generated $22.6 billion in revenue in 2019 and employed over 200,000 people. This segment is also projected to continue growing in the coming years, driven by increasing demand for sustainable and environmentally friendly design practices.

The landscaping industry is constantly evolving and adapting to new trends and technologies. From sustainable and eco-friendly practices to innovative lighting solutions, the future of landscaping is looking bright and promising. Whether you are a homeowner, business owner, or landscaping professional, these trends can provide inspiration for creating beautiful and functional outdoor spaces that will enhance the quality of life for years to come.

Link2Pump made fuel tracking and reporting simple, and it can help your landscaping business. In the era of data and connectivity, Link2Pump empowers businesses to take control of their fuel usage. Our solution combines a web portal and a device connected to your fuel dispenser.

If you want to learn more about our solution and are looking for alternatives to improve bottom line and productivity, please get in touch.

 

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Link2Pump participates in important fairs in the sector and gets closer to its customers

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At the beginning of the year, Link2Pump already participated in 3 major fairs in different sectors, getting closer and closer to its customers. World of Concrete 2023, in Las Vagas; Geotab Connect 2023, in Orlando and GCSAA Conference Trade Showm also in Orlando. 

WOC 2023

World of Concrete 2023 is a leading international trade show and conference dedicated to the commercial concrete and masonry industries. Taking place at the Las Vegas Convention Center, World of Concrete attracted over 60,000 attendees from around the world. The event featured a vast array of cutting-edge products and technology from over 1,500 exhibiting companies, as well as a comprehensive education program that covers the latest developments and trends in the industry.

Attendees had the opportunity to see the latest products and services in action, attend live demonstrations, and network with industry professionals. World of Concrete also featured a number of educational sessions, including hands-on workshops, technical seminars, and keynote presentations from leading industry experts. Whether you’re a contractor, architect, engineer, or supplier, World of Concrete provides a unique opportunity to stay up-to-date on the latest advancements and trends in the industry.

In addition to the trade show and conference, World of Concrete also host a number of networking events, including a opening reception and the World of Concrete Awards of Excellence ceremony. These events provide attendees with the opportunity to connect with others in the industry and share ideas and best practices.

Link2Pump was part of WOC. Our solution helps to reduce fleet costs by managing and claiming fuel tax rebates. Concrete producers and contractors can secure significant federal and state tax rebates for the fuel not used for on-highway activities, on average about 60 cents per gallon.

GeoTab Connect 2023

GeoTab Connect 2023 is a premier conference for the GPS tracking and telematics industry. Tthis event brings together experts, professionals, and industry leaders to share their knowledge and experiences.

GeoTab Connect 2023 featured a wide range of keynote speeches, panel discussions, and technical presentations, covering the latest trends and developments in the field of GPS tracking and telematics. Attendees had the opportunity to learn about new technologies and best practices, and hear from experts about the challenges and opportunities facing the industry today.

Link2Pump is the only automation and fuel management partner on Geotab’s marketplace. Geotab is advancing security, connecting commercial vehicles to the internet and providing web-based analytics to help customers better manage their fleets.

By integrating Link2Pump with Geotab, fleets get increased efficiency at the pump and improved reporting tools, including automatic odometer capture, over the road and on-site transaction reports on a centralized plataform, and increased ROI by combining engine idle and private roads travel data with Link2Pump centralized off-road fuel tax refund reporting.

GCSAA Conference Trade Show

The GCSAA Conference Trade Show is an annual event that brings together golf course superintendents, industry professionals, and suppliers to share the latest knowledge, technologies, and best practices in the golf course management industry.

The conference offers a wide range of educational sessions, including keynote speeches, panel discussions, and technical presentations. Attendees had the opportunity to learn about the latest trends and developments in the field of golf course management, as well as best practices for operating and maintaining golf courses.

In addition to the educational component, the GCSAA Conference Trade Show featured a comprehensive trade show, showcasing the latest products and services from leading companies in the golf course management industry.

Link2Pump offers a simple solution that automates the entire fueling and tracking process. This way, you will always know where every drop of fuel is going, keep your inventory under control and do much more to drive fuel efficiency and performance to your golf fleet vehicles.

Todd C. Hawkins, our sales coordinator, believes that attending the GCSAA Conference is a great opportunity to open new markets. “We want to meet them and help those professionals manage their fuel that they have on the course – for their equipment that takes care of the course. None of them have a fuel management system and very few have even thought of it”, explain Hawkins.

He also points out that approaching this market can be good for Link2Pump to sell into this industry and also help the golf courses themselves because they don’t track fuel and have never even thought of the fuel tax rebates they should be getting at each course. “Why? Literally, every golf course in the nation has fuel onsite. No other industry that we’ve talked to has that high of a penetration of on-site fuel, complements.

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How to save fuel on the road

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The cost of fuel is one of the biggest expenses for fleet managers. The past few years have been challenging because of the pandemic, supply chain disruptions and the Russian invasion of Ukraine. Here’s how to encourage drivers to save fuel while on the road.

Implementing new policies

The most direct way to encourage fuel-efficient driving habits is to enforce new policies for drivers. Fleet managers could set efficiency metrics for the team and have them aim for specific targets each quarter. Some companies establish a speed limit for their drivers to ensure they get the best mileage possible. 

Training drivers from the beginning

Fleet managers should communicate their expectations from the beginning to make policies effective. Hiring managers and supervisors can encourage fuel-efficient driving habits by showing new people in training. These workers could be entry-level, first-time employees or seasoned veterans. Either way, fleet managers should ensure they know the expectations and metrics they need to reach.  

Giving feedback to drivers is important

Providing feedback is a great way to improve driving habits. Letting employees know how they’re doing and if they’re being fuel-efficient gives them direct knowledge of whether they’re performing well or need improvement. Today’s technology is beneficial because supervisors don’t have to sit with people while they operate. 

Changing driver schedules

Based on traffic patterns in the area, fleet managers should create routes daily. The time of day can impact congestion significantly. One highway could have traffic jams frequently in the morning, but be mostly clear by midday. Driving at night typically brings less traffic on most routes. 

Be aware of fuel capacity

Drivers can go for long stretches in rural areas without seeing a gas station. For example, vehicles on Interstate 70 in Utah can travel for over 100 miles without coming across a service station. Drivers who encounter roads like this should calculate their vehicles’ fuel range to avoid running out of gas. 

Getting regular maintenance checks 

Fleet managers can extend the life of their fleet by getting routine maintenance checks. These appointments increase fuel efficiency by ensuring all parts work at their peak level. Some elements fleet owners should examine are:

  • Tires: Tires can have a significant impact on fuel efficiency. Fleet managers and drivers should track the PSI constantly and ensure it’s optimal for each tire. Underinflated tires compromise fuel mileage by about 0.2% for every pound dropped.
  • Air filter: Another maintenance point affecting fuel economy is the air filter. It will have difficulty with airflow once it traps debris and dirt from the road, resulting in lower efficiency. Fleet managers should regularly replace the air filter to improve fuel economy.
  • Engine: Engine tuneups are a necessity for fleets. Supervisors may see they need to replace the spark plugs or oxygen sensors when tuning the motor. Another way to help the engine is to upgrade the oil to a low-viscosity blend.

Also, having a fleet management software gives you a more comprehensive picture of your fleet’s operations. When you have this well-rounded view of your fleet, you can expand it more efficiently. 

Our company has solutions for several industries, such as agriculture, aviation, construction, government, marinas, manufacturing, mining, transportation, and utilities. If you want to learn more about our solution and are looking for alternatives to improve the bottom line and productivity, please get in touch.

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Electric vehicles dominated CES 2023

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CES, or the Consumer Electronics Show, is a massive, annual event where some of the most important technology makers and innovators show off their latest and greatest releases. The show began all the way back in 1967 in New York City, and was a bi-annual event until the late 1990s. Recently, the formerly transient show has settled into Las Vegas as its regular home, typically taking place at the Las Vegas Convention Center. In 2023, CES was once again at just about full, in-person capacity, housing major reveals from companies like Samsung, Acer, Asus, HTC, Lenovo, and many, many others.

This year, in addition to the many screen launches, another hot topic was electric cars. Even for those who visited the event, would not be wrong if they thought that all cars in the world are now electric. After all, pretty much everything, from the next generation of motorcycles to a soon-to-be unveiled U.S. Postal Service delivery van, is now battery-powered.

With the Biden administration’s recent announcement of an expected March increase from the present $7,500 incentive for consumers who purchase an electric vehicle, there will soon be an additional financial benefit for buyers. To that end, there is no shortage of options.

About each brand’s releases

At CES, Mercedes-Benz, Volkswagen, BMW, Audi, Stellantis (parent company of Chrysler, Peugeot, Vauxhall, and Fiat) and Volvo all unveiled their versions of EVs that are either presently in the market or slated for delivery later this year.

Finland-based motorcycle manufacturer Verge introduced its 201 HP all-electric super bike, most-powerful two-wheeled vehicle ever produced, while Oshkosh Defense is producing 60,000 new zero emission delivery vehicles for the U.S. Postal Service — 75% of which will be fully electric — slated for 2026.

Dodge most definitely turned heads with the introduction of its new Ram 1500 Revolution fully electric pickup truck, with two 14.2-inch touchscreens, one of which is removable for use outside the vehicle, and its innovative Shadow Mode, which allows the truck to follow its owner at low speeds, perfect for delivering items to multiple nearby locations.

But the unquestioned star of the show was the partnership between Sony and Honda, which are working together to manufacture and sell their unique, entertainment-infused line of electric vehicles under the brand name Afeela.

With 45 integrated cameras and sensors, and safety a top priority, the new line will ultimately feature Level 3 automated driving capabilities under limited conditions, meaning the car can drive autonomously in heavy traffic, but the human driver must take over when the system requests it.

The innovation in one area often launches a movement, and nowhere was that more apparent than in the dozens of power stations and charging options present in the exhibition hall.

Technology industry professionals attend the show to learn about what is new, what is hot, and what is coming. The world’s largest gathering for innovation and technology also allowed us to see and imagine the future.

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Government plans to require large contractor emissions reports

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Federal regulators have proposed a new climate-reporting rule that would require large federal contractors to publicly disclose their greenhouse gas emissions, climate-related financial risks and science-based emissions’ reduction targets.

The new proposal, known as the Federal Supplier Climate Risks and Resilience Proposed Rule, would amend the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR). It was announced by the Department of Defense, General Services Administration and NASA. The agencies are recommending adding the climate reporting as a revision to the FAR, which governs federal contractors.

The federal government is the world’s single largest purchaser of goods and services, spending more than $650 billion in contracts in fiscal 2020 alone, according to the announcement.

The new proposal provides a targeted, risk-based approach by focusing primarily on major federal suppliers. The largest supplier category includes federal contractors receiving more than $50 million in annual contracts, and contractors with more than $7.5 million but less than $50 million in annual contracts.

A science-based target is a target for reducing GHG emissions that is in line with reductions that the latest climate science deems necessary to meet the goals of the Paris Agreement to limit global warming to well below 2 degrees Celsius (or 28.4 degrees Fahrenheit) above pre-industrial levels and pursue efforts to limit warming to 1.5 degrees C (34.7° F).

The SEC proposed rule change, first announced in March, would require registrants to include certain climate-related disclosures in their registration statements and periodic reports, including information about climate-related risks that are reasonably likely to have a material impact on their businesses.

So, if you have government contracts, it is more than ever important to be able to measure all processes, for the greatest possible transparency.

IoT and telematics tracking in trucks can help on this mission. Fleet managers can then perform repairs to make them more fuel-efficient or replace them with newer, more economical alternatives. Similarly, data over time can highlight which routes lead to the highest diesel consumption, informing future route planning.

Currently, Link2Pump is an alternative that helps fleets managers to save fuel. If you want to learn more about our solution and are searching for alternatives to manage your fleet, please get in touch.

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Increase in fleet fuel in 2023

The City of Virginia Beach (Virginia) council has agreed to increase its fuel budget by $1.35 million to allow city departments to pay for the higher cost of fuel and ensure fleet vehicles continue to operate. The retail cost for regular gasoline has risen to $4.49 per gallon, according to the U.S. Energy Information Administration.

NYC also should spend more in fuel. Keeping the nation’s largest municipal fleet fueled cost the city a projected $81.8 million for the 2022 fiscal year. Nick Benson, director of communications for the New York City Department of Citywide Administrative Services (DCAS), said that’s compared to $50 million the previous fiscal year. That’s a 61% increase in fuel costs.

The higher costs are not only due to a major uptick in fuel use. The city used about 26 million gallons of fuel during FY2022, compared to 25.8 million gallons the previous year. Benson said the slight increase is due to government services resuming to a pre-pandemic level after seeing a slight drop in FY2021.

Fleet departments across the country have been dealing with higher fuel costs since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in late February.

The city is also working to reduce its fleet size. Earlier this year, New York City Mayor Eric Adams announced a reduction of the city’s fleet size by at least 855 vehicles, in an effort to save taxpayer dollars and reduce carbon emissions.

A good first step to control municipal fleet fuel consumption is to understand where and when fuel consumption is occurring.  This information can help municipal officials, staff, and volunteers to identify major sources of fuel consumption, and decide where to focus fuel usage reduction efforts.

Link2Pump service can be very useful in this area, as we offer solutions such as:

— instant tracking of fuel expenditures by department

— real-time tracking and reporting by vehicle, driver, division and more

— no fuel misuse, our system can prevent drivers from accidentally filling gas into diesel powered vehicles

With these tools, you can have a complete fuel log from each vehicle and monitor fuel use for all vehicles using the municipal pumps.

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What to expect from IoT in 2023

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The Internet of Things will be present in 95% of electronics in the coming years. As a result, interest in and demand for products capable of combining management, control, and monitoring will grow rapidly. The scenario serves as a tip for every supplier, at the very least, to make plans to implement IoT in their products, considering the new opportunities and needs of the market.

To keep pace with industry changes and stay competitive, it’s critical to be aware of major trends. Here are the top trends to keep an eye on, shared by Zipit. 

  1. A wider range of connectivity options

The last few years have offered a wider range of connectivity choices for IoT, both by expanding existing technologies like LPWAN( Low-power wide-area network) and through newer technologies like 5G. With the continued proliferation of 5G’s ultra-low latency and higher data transfer rates, we’ll continue to see exciting new solutions evolve and improve. 

  1. Increasing challenges related to cybersecurity

Cybersecurity continues to be top of mind, particularly since the rise in remote work. Seeking new and improved ways of protecting IoT products and systems is and will continue to be a top business priority for years to come. 

  1. Edge computing

One particular technology that continues to advance on the Internet of Things is edge computing. In this model, the IoT data captured by sensors is analyzed and stored at or near the physical site where it’s collected. Edge computing provides the opportunity for more real-time data processing, and it allows businesses and governments to serve customers in new areas while providing greater control and flexibility. Some exciting edge computing use cases include autonomous vehicles, smart cities, healthcare and medicine, industrial IoT, and more.

  1. Advances in big data and machine learning

Learning how to harness the data to further automate decision-making is proving to be an exciting challenge to solve and a key aspect of continuing to enhance the value of IoT. Big data and machine learning will continue enabling IoT to support better and more informed recommendations as we learn to leverage it well.

  1. As-a-service delivery model improvements

Through IoT, using cloud-based services without a large financial outlay will continue to improve the service delivery model. IoT provides a “consume what you need” delivery method through the use of artificial intelligence, machine learning, cloud services, and other advances. 

  1. Artificial intelligence (AI)

According to Bloomberg, the $422+ billion global artificial intelligence market is likely to grow at over 39% from now through 2028. This tremendous growth provides incredible opportunities for businesses and governments alike to foster innovation and respond to customer and constituent needs. Artificial intelligence has been advancing IoT by leaps and bounds and shows no sign of slowing down. 

  1. Internationalization

The final trend for 2023 is that device-making customers are expanding their offerings into different countries. Some US-based OEMs are growing by deploying solutions into Canada and various countries in Europe, for example. Likewise, Canadian companies are expanding into the US and various parts of Asia. And this trend continues in other countries as well. Now that more companies have already deployed their solutions in their home countries, they seek to offer their solutions in different markets and regions. 

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