Council trials use of bin lorry vegetable oil fuel

Vegetable oil is being used to fuel a number of bin lorries in Derby as part of a four-month trial.

Derby City Council said six of its vehicles would be powered by hydrotreated vegetable oil (HVO) instead of diesel in an attempt to reduce harmful emissions.

Waste bosses said the vehicles were chosen for the trial as they were "the least efficient and most polluting vehicles" within the authority's fleet.

Carmel Swan, cabinet member for climate change, transport and sustainability, said: "Exploring alternative fuels is part of our commitment to reduce our reliance on fossil fuels."

The authority said the use of HVO would be a "short-term option" alongside electric vehicles (EV).

Swan said the use of alternative fuels was a key step in reaching the council's net-zero carbon emissions target by 2035.

"HVO is a low-emission diesel alternative that significantly reduces greenhouse gas emissions and improves air quality compared to traditional diesel," she said.

"We must take action to mitigate against and reduce the effects that ongoing climate change will have on the city and residents, and our collaborative approach means the entire council is involved in reaching net-zero as well as our partners and residents.

"Tackling climate change offers a fantastic opportunity to build a greener, healthier city with a stronger economy and better outcomes for everyone."

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