A significant number of UK businesses are falling behind on fleet emissions reporting, with many still relying on outdated methods, or not tracking emissions at all, according to new research from business mobility provider Alphabet (GB).
The study, released to coincide with World Environment Day (5 June), found that more than a third (38%) of fleet managers are still using spreadsheets or even paper to record emissions, while a further 8% admitted they don’t calculate them at all.
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Worryingly, fewer than one in five (18%) of those surveyed believe their organisation has the necessary tools to accurately calculate and report fleet emissions. Even more concerning, 12% said their company has no intention of investing in the technology needed to improve reporting.
“Our study reveals that a large number of UK businesses are either ill-prepared or ill-equipped when it comes to calculating, recording and reporting their vehicle emissions,” said Ian Turner, Chief Sales Officer at Alphabet (GB).
Turner noted that many fleet managers remain uncertain about what actions to take and what tools are available to ensure compliance: “A significant number have acknowledged their uncertainty about what actions they need to take, and when.”
The research also highlighted sector-specific disparities, with over 40% of logistics firms, despite typically operating large fleets, still reliant on spreadsheets. Some delivery and retail businesses are reportedly continuing to use paper-based methods.
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By GlobalDataTurner pointed out that while the UK’s Streamlined Energy and Carbon Reporting (SECR) framework currently applies to large companies, smaller firms shouldn’t assume they are off the hook: “Fleet managers of smaller organisations cannot rest on their laurels, as the reporting requirement will almost certainly be extended to include most SMEs in the future.”
He described the findings as “a wake-up call” for the fleet sector and urged businesses to start preparing now by identifying the tools and processes they need. Alphabet has developed a suite of fleet management solutions, including its new Carbon Manager, designed to help businesses track, analyse, and report vehicle emissions.
The research, conducted in April 2025, surveyed 202 professionals responsible for fleet operations across the UK, using a structured methodology to ensure data reliability.
