Veolia launches first renewable fuelled fleet

A new waste and recycling collection fleet fully powered by renewable hydrotreated vegetable oil (HVO) has taken to roads in Norfolk’s Broadland district, in a first for environmental services provider Veolia in the UK.

Veolia’s new contract for recycling and waste services for Broadland District Council, which commenced on 1 April, included a commitment to reducing operational emissions and developing low carbon solutions, of which the HVO-run fleet forms a part.

HVO is made from vegetable oils and animal fats, offering a low carbon, low emission, fossil-free alternative to conventional diesel which is said to eliminate up to 90 per cent of net CO2 and reduce nitrogen oxide (NOX), particulate matter (PM) and carbon monoxide (CO) emissions.

It is fully interchangeable with conventional diesel and can be used pure or blended with fossil diesel if required.

Pascal Hauret, managing director for municipal at Veolia UK, said: “We’re delighted to launch our first fully HVO powered fleet in Broadland. HVO significantly reduces CO2 emissions so this is a hugely positive step in our shared commitment to net zero. Importantly, whilst the availability of HVO is still limited in the UK, Veolia has secured a guaranteed supply for the entire contract term.

“As part of our ambitious and achievable carbon reduction plan, this new fleet will help drive us towards our 2050 Net Zero ambitions.”

Councillor Judy Leggett, portfolio holder for environmental excellence at Broadland Council, said: “We’re very pleased to be continuing our very successful working relationship with Veolia through the award of this major new contract. The contract brings together an excellent service for residents with innovative new approaches which will help to make our waste and recycling services more effective and even more environmentally friendly.”