Forward Air Climbs USA TODAY’s Climate Leaders List with Improved CDP Score
Event summary
- Forward Air named to USA TODAY’s America’s Climate Leaders 2026 list, recognizing emissions intensity reductions.
- Company improved CDP score from B- in 2024 to B in 2025 through verified GHG inventory audit and sustainability initiatives.
- Shawn Stewart (CEO) and Mason Payne (Director of Corporate ESG) highlighted per capita energy/fuel consumption cuts and expanded emissions tracking.
- Full list published April 20, 2026 on usatoday.com.
The big picture
Forward Air’s recognition underscores the growing importance of ESG metrics in transportation, where asset-light providers face pressure to balance cost efficiency with environmental accountability. The company’s improved CDP score signals progress, but broader industry trends suggest sustainability will remain a competitive differentiator and regulatory focus.
What we're watching
- Sustainability Execution
- Whether Forward Air can maintain its emissions reduction pace amid industry-wide decarbonization pressures.
- Regulatory Compliance
- How stricter ESG reporting requirements may impact the company’s operational costs and strategic priorities.
- Market Differentiation
- The extent to which sustainability credentials influence customer and partner preferences in logistics services.
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