Chichester District Council is taking a major step in its fight against climate change, by switching its diesel vehicles to renewable fuel made from used cooking oil.
The council’s waste, recycling, street cleaning, and grounds maintenance vehicles are now all running on Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil, or HVO, made from waste cooking fats and oils.
The move is expected to cut the council’s carbon emissions by about a third, helping it move closer to its 2040 net-zero target.
“We’re proud to be taking this important step towards a cleaner, greener future,” says Cllr Mark Chilton, Cabinet Member for Chichester Contract Services at Chichester District Council. “While the council’s own emissions represent less than 0.5% of the district-wide total, our diesel fleet accounts for a significant proportion of our operational emissions.
“Switching to HVO is a practical and effective way to reduce our carbon footprint that doesn’t require us to replace existing vehicles, fuel storage systems, or pumps. This offers a cost-effective and immediate solution that delivers real benefits to our local environment.”
The council is using a palm oil-free source of HVO that has been certified as a genuine waste product through a rigorous process. It is produced from used cooking oil and animal fats that would otherwise go to waste.
Dangerous lorry driver sentenced after Chichester crash
Tackling homelessness in Crawley
County Council launches new specialist support hub for children and families
Revitalisation plans for Bognor Regis
West Sussex Fire & Rescue Service share salvage training insights at Buckingham Palace
Plans to place CCTV into taxis in Arun
Two arrests made in connection with serious Eastbourne assault
SECAmb asks "Help us help you this winter"
West Sussex County council budget shortfall
Council approves Hastings Castle visitor centre demolition
On Air