Our sustainability vision: five pillars
Our sustainability vision is translated into five pillars that summarize what Mervielde stands for and how we intend to use our impact positively.
Our strategy is not a break with the past, but a formalization of what has long defined our DNA. We have clearly defined our direction, our priorities, and how we will measure and report our progress. This way, as a family business, we can continue to build a sustainable and resilient future with greater focus and transparency.
Want to learn more about our sustainability efforts?
You will find more detailed information about our actions up to and including 2030 in our sustainability report.
You can download the complete report here.
Pillar 1: comprehensive logistics solution
Mervielde distinguishes itself through reliable and flexible, customized logistics solutions that prioritize efficiency, sustainability and customer focus. Thanks to years of expertise and continuous investments in innovative technologies, such as central control towers and digital tools, transport flows are optimally monitored and managed. This ensures cost reduction, greater predictability, and a smooth flow of goods. The organization quickly responds to changing customer needs, builds customized infrastructure and materials, and combines this with a strong focus on service quality, resulting in high customer satisfaction.
Furthermore, Mervielde is fully committed to innovation, sustainability, and quality as a foundation for growth. With proprietary systems, alternative fuels, solar panels, and efficient internal processes, amongst others, the company minimizes its ecological footprint. As a family business, it embeds knowledge and values within the organization and guarantees quality through ISO standards and certifications. By investing in infrastructure, such as multi-compartment tank containers and a waterfront site, and by responding to technological trends, Mervielde continues to strengthen its market position and develop long-term partnerships.
Pillar 2: safety first
Safety is our absolute priority and goes beyond legal standards and customer requirements. With additional measures such as double walkways, ground-operated tanker trucks, and advanced safety systems (lane guard, emergency braking systems, blind spot detection, fall protection), we create a safe working environment.
We contribute to society through road safety education in schools and invest internally in training that covers both legal requirements and specific safety training, with an emphasis on PPE use and correct procedures.
Our behaviour-based safety culture is actively promoted. Through programs such as Behaviour Based Safety, risk assessments, and continuous monitoring, we encourage employees to actively contribute to safety.
Finally, high-quality safety materials and regular equipment maintenance ensure maximum protection.
Pillar 3: climate action
Mervielde is strongly committed to decarbonization, with the majority of CO₂ emissions coming from truck transport. Therefore, the focus is on making the fleet more sustainable through alternative fuels such as HVO, biofuels, electric, and hydrogen. Since 2024, some vehicles have been running on HVO, resulting in a CO₂ reduction of up to 90%. By 2030, half of the fleet should be running on alternative fuels (compared to 2020). Furthermore, Mervielde is investing in zero-emission vehicles, charging infrastructure, and more efficient logistics through the Fit for 55 package. Ecodriving also plays a role: through training and monitoring, over 221,000 liters of fuel and 704 tons of CO₂ have been saved since 2022. In addition, the organization is reducing its environmental impact through green energy, solar panels and energy-efficient technologies.
In terms of environmental management and purchasing policy, Mervielde operates according to ISO 14001, focusing on waste reduction, water purification and reuse, and minimizing disruption to local residents. Local and sustainable purchasing is a priority: suppliers are selected based on their own sustainability goals, while transport distances are minimized. Moreover, innovative technologies such as smart vehicles and data monitoring are deployed. Through close collaboration with customers and suppliers, including through shared logistics hubs and joint CO₂ reduction programs, Mervielde strives for chain-wide sustainability.
Pillar 4: helping people grow
Mervielde prioritizes employee well-being with a policy that focuses on health, preventive programs, psychosocial support and strong social dialogue. The organization values an open and family-oriented culture where collaboration and personal attention lead to engagement and loyalty. Employees are encouraged to actively share ideas and thus contribute to innovation and business development.
Furthermore, Mervielde focuses strongly on growth by investing in training and personal development. In addition to safety training, we offer customized programs for technical and functional skills. Coaching, mentoring, and leadership development support employees in their professional and personal growth and prepare future leaders for new challenges.
Finally, an efficient organizational structure with clear processes and a transparent evaluation system (our 'GPS methodology') ensures clear task allocation and continuous development. Internal mobility and career opportunities enhance the organization's dynamism and create an environment where employees can continue to develop.
Pillar 5: social responsibility
Mervielde attaches great importance to clear and consistent communication, both internally and externally, so that employees, clients, and other stakeholders are informed of developments, strategies and performance. The company has introduced structured ESG reporting in 2025 according to the Voluntary Sustainability Reporting Standard for Medium-sized Enterprises (VSME), which helps to clearly present policies and results. This approach will be further refined in the coming years.
Mervielde's core values are encapsulated in the FLOW values (Focus on people, Loaded with curiosity, Outstanding, With care) and form the foundation for all business activities. The company has a robust compliance and governance programme, including audits, ethics policies, cybersecurity measures, and strict compliance with legislation. Integrity is central: 100% of employees participate in ethics training, there is a zero-tolerance policy against corruption, and violations are rigorously addressed through internal procedures and whistleblowing programmes.
Mervielde supports local communities and charities through financial contributions, sponsorships and active employee involvement. In addition, the company is committed to nature conservation and biodiversity by creating green areas around its sites and working with local communities and governments to promote environmental protection and awareness.