BROMSGROVE District Council vehicles are set to use Hydro-treated Vegetable Oil (HVO) to cut its carbon emissions.
The form of renewable diesel is produced from sustainably sourced vegetable fats and oils derived from used cooking oils, non-food grade crops and left-over animal fats from food processing.
It is proven to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by as much as 90 per cent whilst significantly reducing nitrogen oxide, particulate matter and carbon monoxide all which are key components in achieving improved air quality.
The first delivery of the HVO is expected in May and comes as a result of Bromsgrove District Council’s Climate Change Working Party.
The council’s Cabinet Member for Climate Change Coun Michael Thompson, who also chairs the working party, said it was a stepping-stone in the right direction to make carbon reductions, whilst still being able to use its diesel vehicle fleet.
“It also gives the council time to investigate other forms of energy including hydrogen which is high on the Government’s agenda at this time of rising costs and uncertain supply of other fuel sources.
“A climate change emergency has been declared and I am absolutely delighted to be spearheading this change not only as part of this council’s commitment to reducing carbon emissions, but to create a cleaner greener planet for our future generations to enjoy.”
The council has had work undertaken by the Environment Savings Trust in relation to its fleet and has commissioned further work in a bid to ‘green’ the fleet further.
