As we mark Earth Day today, 22 April, it’s the perfect time to reflect on how we can all reduce our environmental impact. For fleet operators, that means getting to grips with the latest FORS sustainability requirements and understanding how to turn compliance into a real opportunity.
To support that journey, FORS hosted a webinar with its sustainability and decarbonisation partner, DEKRA Automotive Ltd. Whether you’re starting from scratch or feeling overwhelmed by new expectations, the session provided straightforward, practical advice to help you move forward with confidence.
👉 You can rewatch the full webinar here: Watch the webinar on YouTube
What’s new in FORS V7?
FORS Version 7 introduces more structured sustainability requirements. DEKRA’s Shrey Parikh highlighted the key changes, including:
- Stronger expectations around environmental responsibility
- New requirements for emissions strategies and staff travel behaviour
- Evidence-based planning and reporting
- More detailed data collection, including AdBlue use, fuel quality and idling
The big message? V7 isn’t about ticking boxes, it’s about proving impact and taking real action.
Start with the 3Rs: record, reduce, report
To help operators get started, there’s the 3R approach:
- Record: Gather accurate data on fuel usage, mileage, depot energy use and staff travel.
- Reduce: Use this data to build realistic, achievable carbon reduction plans.
- Report: Present your data in a structured, audit-ready way using tools like the FORS calculator.
This approach not only helps with compliance but can also cut costs and improve operational performance.
Data is the foundation
Building a strong decarbonisation strategy starts with high-quality, consistent data. Operators should be collecting:
- Fuel usage in litres or kWh
- Vehicle mileage and utilisation
- AdBlue and EV usage
- Depot energy consumption
- Staff travel patterns
Sustainability is a team effort
One of the most important messages from the webinar: you can’t do this alone. Success depends on the whole team working together:
- Fleet managers track operational data
- Drivers help log daily vehicle usage
- Finance teams handle emissions-related costs
- HR supports staff travel data collection
- Compliance ensures everything aligns with FORS
- Directors review and sign off all documentation
DEKRA recommends appointing a sustainability champion – someone who owns the process, joins the dots, and keeps things moving.
Tools and support available
DEKRA’s Sustainability Readiness Package includes:
- A full CO2 footprint calculation
- A tailored decarbonisation module
- Expert support and guided online tools
- A step-by-step roadmap to prepare for audit
In one case study, operator Essex Bulk Services Ltd followed this process and achieved FORS Gold certification, saved £180,000, and identified 17 quick wins.
Avoid common pitfalls
Common mistakes that trip up operators include:
- Tracking fuel spend instead of volume
- Storing documents in multiple folders or formats
- Only collecting data once a year
- Failing to assign clear roles across teams
Getting into the habit of regular data collection and assigning responsibilities makes the audit process far smoother.
Don’t wait – start now
On Earth Day, we’re reminded that sustainability is no longer optional. As William Soper from DEKRA said, “Sustainability is no longer just a requirement, it’s an expectation.”
Even if your data isn’t perfect, the most important thing is to start. Begin building the habits, involve the right people, and take it step by step.
Need support?
DEKRA’s FORS V7 assessment service is available from £425 and includes:
- A sustainability readiness score
- A full review of your current documentation
- A personalised roadmap to help you get audit-ready
Learn more and book your assessment: dekra-uk.co.uk/en/dekra-fors