UNITING FOR ENERGY SAVINGS CYCLING'S ICONIC RACE AND REXEL: and Sustainable Mobility

By Randy Reid

As an avid follower of the Tour de France, I was pleasantly surprised to witness the presence of Rexel logos adorning the first stages of the race. This iconic event, renowned for its captivating spectacle and deep-rooted cultural heritage, has embarked on an inspiring journey towards eco-responsibility. Throughout the past decade, the race organizers have wholeheartedly committed themselves to preserving the breathtaking landscapes that provide the backdrop for this one-of-a-kind race. In this noble pursuit, the Tour de France has found a strong ally in NALMCO member Rexel, whose mission revolves around accelerating community electrification, championing environmental sustainability, and combating the urgent challenge of climate change. This collaboration highlights the indispensable energy savings and positive environmental impact of bicycles.

Recognizing the importance of preserving the natural beauty and heritage of the regions explored during the race, the Tour de France has embraced an eco-responsible approach by adhering to the ARO (avoid-reduce-offset) strategy. The race has successfully reduced its direct carbon emissions by almost 40% between 2013 and 2021. This steadfast commitment to sustainable practices encompasses sustainable mobility, resource preservation, and the protection of natural heritage. These measures are a testament to the race's dedication to preserving the environment.

In a talk entitled “Less is More” earlier this month in Berlin, Keith Bradshaw of Speirs Major discussed the importance of using less materials in lighting, something that our audience knows well.

Lighting maintenance contractors were some of the first in the lighting industry to employ ARO, by retrofitting lighting fixtures instead of replacing them, dramatically lowering the amount of materials and transportation involved.

The partnership between Rexel and the Tour de France marks a significant milestone in advancing sustainable mobility and supporting communities in their energy transition. Rexel's expertise in the energy sector positions them as an invaluable partner in helping the Tour reduce its environmental impact through swifter electrification of communities. This collaboration underscores the Tour de France's dedication to championing sustainable mobility as a catalyst for a greener and more sustainable future.

Beyond their collaboration with the Tour de France, Rexel Group has taken additional action toward mitigating climate change. By signing the Corporate Knights #COP27 Action Declaration on Climate Policy Engagement, alongside 56 other signatories, Rexel reaffirmed its commitment to aligning greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions reduction targets with those specified in the Paris Agreement. Validated as a Net-Zero Standard by the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi) on July 19, Rexel has set an ambitious goal of achieving net-zero GHG emissions by 2050.

As the Tour de France winds down this week, it serves as a poignant reminder of our shared responsibility to safeguard the environment and create a sustainable world for generations to come—something that NALMCO members have been doing for decades! ■