Hounslow rolls out HVO-fuelled vehicles for household waste collection

The diesel alternative was first introduced by Lampton Services, who deliver key public services on behalf of the council, in 2021 for its commercial waste vehicles.

From September, the programme will be extended to include Lampton’s domestic waste and recycling fleet so that household waste collections will now also be carried out using HVO.

Councillor Shivraj Grewal, Cabinet Member for Infrastructure, Recycling and Transformation at Hounslow Council, said: “We are proud to be delivering on our promise to invest in a cleaner, more modern refuse collection fleet.

“This marks a real step forward in both improving the service for residents and reducing harmful emissions from Council operations.”

‘Renewable diesel’

HVO is a renewable fuel made from waste cooking oils, animal fats and forestry materials that are thermochemically treated with hydrogen.

It is also known as “renewable diesel” and can be used as a drop-in fuel – meaning that no changes to the engine or infrastructure are needed.

It has the potential to reduce carbon dioxide emissions by up to 90%.

Hailey Cluff, Head of Lampton Services Recycle, commented: “This expansion reflects our shared commitment with the Council to deliver essential services in the most sustainable way possible.

“By using HVO, we’re cutting harmful emissions while delivering high-quality services for Hounslow residents.”

HVO use on the rise in local councils

A growing number of UK local authorities are turning to HVO to decarbonise their fleets.

Councils including North Ayrshire, Gravesham and North Kesteven have already switched portions of their refuse collection fleets to the renewable fuel as part of their own carbon reduction commitments.

Councillor Katherine Dunne, Cabinet Member for Climate, Environment and Transport at Hounslow Council, added: “This milestone marks not only a greener future for Hounslow, but also demonstrates how local government can lead the way in environmental innovation.

“Switching to more environmentally friendly fuels will improve air quality and reduce carbon emissions caused by council operations, helping us deliver on our ambition to make Hounslow greener, cleaner and healthier for everyone.”