TNT opens first 'green depot' in the Netherlands

TNT recently opened its first CO2 emission-free depot in Veenendaal, the Netherlands. The depot is the first in a series of “green” buildings to be used by TNT as part of its worldwide environmental programme, Planet Me. The global mail and express delivery company aims to cut the CO2 emissions of all of its buildings, totaling three million square meters of real estate in over sixty-five countries.

The building is designed to allow in as much daylight as possible, reducing the amount of artificial light required. The building produces its own energy in a sustainable way. More than 300 solar panels collect sunlight and convert it into energy. Water is pumped from the ground to heat and cool the building.

The depot was designed in close collaboration with the VolkerWessels construction company. TNT required the building to be CO2 neutral in operation. VolkerWessels concerted efforts led to creative solutions, including collecting rainwater for flushing eco-toilets and selecting low-energy coffee machines and recyclable furniture. Second-hand clinkers were used for paving. The choice of larger on-site containers for paper and non-recyclable reduces the need for emptying.

The exceptional combination of techniques and measures in one business site allows energy savings of over 70 percent compared with a traditional depot. VolkerWessels expects other end users of sustainable business premises to choose the same solutions. TNT’s green depot has been operational since mid-October and functions as a mail distribution center for Veenendaal and its surroundings.

TNT provides businesses and consumers worldwide with an extensive range of services for their mail and express delivery needs. Headquartered in the Netherlands, TNT offers efficient network infrastructures in Europe and Asia and is expanding operations worldwide to maximize its network performance. TNT serves more than 200 countries and employs more than 161,500 people. Over 2007, TNT reported euro11 billion in revenues and an operating income of euro1,192 million. TNT is publicly listed on the stock exchange of Amsterdam. TNT recognizes its social responsibility, and has formed partnerships with the United Nations World Food Programme and the United Nations Environment Programme to fight hunger and pollution in the world. More information about TNT can be found on its website http://group.tnt.com.