An Post has reached a significant milestone in reducing its carbon emissions by 50 percent compared to 2009 levels, three months ahead of schedule. The achievement comes despite a 27% increase in volume, with the postal service delivering a total of 73 million items in 2025. This remarkable feat demonstrates An Post's commitment to sustainability and its ability to balance business growth with environmental responsibility.
The original target for a 50 percent carbon dioxide emissions reduction by 2030 was brought forward to the end of 2025 due to the urgency of taking meaningful climate action. This forward-thinking approach has enabled An Post to make significant progress in reducing its environmental impact, setting it apart from other national postal carriers worldwide.
An Post's fleet is undergoing a transformation, with 55 percent of vehicles now either electric or powered by alternative fuels. The deployment of new electric vehicles has been particularly notable, with 575 new EVs introduced this year, including 30 percent of diesel vans replaced by larger EVs.
The company's efforts to reduce its carbon footprint are not limited to vehicle replacements. In the fourth quarter of 2025, 95 percent of heavy vehicles switched from diesel to renewable hydro-treated vegetable oil (HVO), a move that has reduced greenhouse gas emissions per liter by up to 90 percent compared to conventional diesel.
HVO also presents an opportunity for An Post to create a quieter and healthier environment for communities and employees. However, the high cost of HVO compared to electricity remains a challenge, particularly in routes where charging infrastructure is limited.
Despite this challenge, An Post deserves credit for its commitment to sustainability. The company's efforts demonstrate that it is possible to balance economic and operational considerations with environmental responsibility.
An Post's progress in sustainability is recognized internationally, ranking fourth globally in the International Postal Corporation Sustainability Measurement and Management System. This ranking reflects the company's active commitment to making sustainable living commonplace in Ireland.
The success of An Post serves as a model for other postal services in Europe, which are also pursuing low-carbon postal practices. As the world continues to grapple with climate change, companies like An Post will play an increasingly important role in shaping a more sustainable future.
An Post's achievements demonstrate that even in industries where growth and emissions are often seen as mutually exclusive, it is possible to find a balance between the two. This achievement serves as a testament to the company's dedication to creating a better future for its customers and the environment.
The move showcases the company's efforts to accelerate its positive environmental and social impacts for communities across Ireland.
