Auto Amazon Links: No products found.
Next week, a new proposal aimed at drastically reducing emissions from the Council’s vehicle fleet will be presented to the Cabinet. The plan sets out a defined strategy for moving towards more environmentally friendly and sustainable operations within the Council’s transport resources.
If this proposal receives approval, the Council intends to replace vehicles at the end of their service life with electric vehicles (EVs) wherever feasible. In cases where EVs cannot be introduced or for vehicles that are not due for renewal soon, the Council will investigate the use of Hydrogenated Vegetable Oil (HVO) as an alternative fuel option. HVO is a renewable, fossil-free diesel substitute derived from waste materials like used cooking oils, animal fats, and vegetable oils.
Importantly, diesel-powered vehicles can switch to HVO without requiring any technical modifications, allowing the Council to achieve meaningful emissions reductions relatively quickly. Currently, the Council operates a fleet of 568 vehicles ranging from small cars and vans to large heavy goods vehicles (HGVs) used primarily for waste collection. In 2019, these vehicles produced 3,395 tonnes of carbon dioxide, accounting for around 16.3 percent of the Council’s total emissions.
Today, there are already 36 electric vehicles, 143 hybrids, and 20 vehicles powered by Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) within the fleet. However, this new policy aims to accelerate the transition to sustainable fuels for all vehicles that can make the switch as soon as possible. According to research conducted by the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero (DESNZ), although HVO carries a slightly higher cost than diesel, it could reduce CO2 emissions by up to 98 percent. Shifting towards greater use of HVO alongside increased adoption of EVs marks a critical move for the Council in its commitment to becoming net zero by 2030. This policy also aligns closely with the Council’s Air Quality Action Plan, dedicated to enhancing air quality in Liverpool and fostering a healthier environment for both residents and visitors.
Councillor Liam Robinson, the Leader of Liverpool City Council, emphasized, “This policy is a major step forward in reducing the Council’s carbon footprint and improving the air quality in our city. This is about leading by example and showing that practical, affordable changes can help us reach our net‑zero ambitions while delivering cleaner, healthier neighbourhoods for everyone in Liverpool.”
Read the full article on Liverpool Express here: Read More
Auto Amazon Links: No products found.