The material handling industry has embraced the concept of sustainability with an increasing number of warehouses and distribution centers implementing sustainable practices. The concept is a win-win proposition that, among other things, helps to lower operating costs as companies learn to be more eco-efficient. A 2011 survey by The Material Handling Industry of America (MHIA) found that 92 percent of respondents said their companies believe that sustainable initiatives have the potential to save money and resources. The survey also found that the material handling and logistics equipment and technologies most often cited as contributing to environmental stability are automatic identification, totes and containers, and forklifts. 1   Forklift fleets offer significant opportunities for warehouses and distribution centers to improve their eco-efficiency. One way is to convert from forklifts powered by internal combustion (IC) to electric lift trucks Here are some of the ways electric forklifts help facilities become eco-efficient: Reduce Carbon Footprint: Carbon dioxide (CO 2 ) is one of the most damaging greenhouse gases.  Economics for Equity and Environment published a report that found, in 2010, one ton of CO 2 in the atmosphere caused up to $893 in economic damage. By 2050, the group says, these costs could rise up to $1,550 per ton of CO 2 emitted. 2 Forklifts offer an often overlooked area in which warehouses and distribution centers can reduce carbon emissions. For every 10,000 hours of use, IC-powered forklifts emit 120,000 more pounds of carbon emissions than electric forklifts. 3 Converting to electric forklifts can reduce the carbon footprint immediately. Cut Maintenance Costs: An electric motor has just one moving part compared to dozens of parts in a combustion engine, many of which are vulnerable to wearing out. In addition, an IC-powered forklift requires regular maintenance, such as the replacement of oil, oil […]