An Post has become the first postal service provider in the world to attain zero carbon emission delivery status in a capital city, following the addition of two electric delivery trucks to its Dublin fleet.

The company already has 212 smaller electric delivery vans nationwide, but has now added two 7.5 tonne electric eCanter trucks to ensure that every letter and parcel delivered by its services in Dublin City Centre will be delivered emissions free.

The utility company also plans to roll out fully zero emission postal delivery to Cork, Galway, Kilkenny, Limerick and Waterford by the end of 2020.

Chief Executive David McRedmond said there is no reasons why other companies cannot do the same by replace their existing service vehicles with zero emission alternatives.

He said An Post has proven that 100% green delivery in the capital can be done.

An Post has committed to eliminating 50% of carbon from all postal and delivery operations throughout Ireland by 2025.

By bringing forward their commitment from 2030, they will save 20,000 tonnes of carbon, and aim to be totally carbon-free by 2040.

The company has already invested €7.5 million in its electric fleet, which it plans to expand to more than 900 vehicles within two years.

Business representative group IBEC welcomed the announcement.

Chief Executive Danny McCoy said it highlights that with smart evidence-based policies, the transition towards a low carbon economy can be extremely good for Ireland and build greater energy resilience, boost competitiveness, improve quality of life, and create thousands of sustainable jobs across the country.

Deputy Director of Friends of the Earth Kate Ruddock also commended An Post and called on other organisations to do the same to benefit health and air quality throughout the country.