Cumbria-based, Alco Waste Management Services has fitted its 47-strong fleet with Auto-Q's FleetTrak asset management system as a fuel saving measure.
Auto-Q claims its system will mean a 5-10% fuel saving across a typical mixed fleet. It will also enable the company to monitor its drivers for maximum transport efficiency.
The system has been fitted on Alco's skip wagons, tractor units and multi-purpose collection vehicles. The system uses GSM and GPS technology to allow the operator to remotely monitor position, direction, speed, fuel flow, engine speed and braking.
Laura Stewart, operations manager for Alco, said: “We were concerned about wasteful use of vehicles, such as excessive idling time and extended breaks. As an environmental company we also have a responsibility to control emissions and reduce unnecessary fuel usage.”
Recycling Consortium launches Community Waste Action Support Programme
The Recycling Consortium has secured a Legacy Fund grant for the third year of its Community Waste Action Support Programme (CWASP).
Based on eight years of experience working with community groups, the programme provides practical advice for local authorities on the development and initiation of community waste activities. For a fee of 1,000, guidance is given on areas including junk swaps, skip days, junk art, tool swaps, mosaics, 'swap-it' websites and home composting.
Kate O'B;rien, senior development officer at the Recycling Consortium, said: “It's a useful programme for local authorities who want to engage and support community waste initiatives. People want to take action to combat waste issues within their neighbourhood.”
The Recycling Consortium is now looking for ten local authorities for its 2003-04 course, starting in the autumn. The training programme consists of four national seminars over the course of a year and two days individual training, for instance giving funding guidance.
For more information please contact Kate O'B;rien on: 0117 930 4355, or email kateo@recyclingconsortium.org.uk
The Composting Association opens awards for entries
The Composting Association has announced the four categories of its third 2003 annual awards, to take place on December 3, 2003.
The deadline for nominations for the awards is October 16, 2003 and the award ceremony will be held at the Village Hotel in Nottingham.
The categories for the 2003 awards are:
- Composted Product – Jim Balance Marketing Award
- Best Local Authority Initiative
- Innovation in Composting Technology
- Best Community Initiative
Last year's Composted Product winner was APEX, a product launched by Cleanaway, Onyx and SITA. HDRA Consultants in partnership with Cambridgeshire County Council won Best Local Authority Initiative for its 'master composter' scheme involving local volunteers to spread awareness of home composting.
CPS Civic won the innovation category for its in-vessel tower system designed to compost unsegregated residual waste. New to the awards this year is the Best Community Initiative category.
For an entry pack, visit the Composting Association website.
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