The successful session brought together more than 70 highways and transport experts from a range of organisations to explore how non-fossil fuels could be used to reduce the carbon emissions of their fleets of vehicles.
These included the NHS, National Grid, local emergency services, highways contractors such as Kiely Bros, and neighboring councils.
Attendees discussed a range of case studies of cutting-edge ‘decarbonisation’ transport technologies and approaches which were introduced by leading consultants in the field including WSP, MH Tech and Gregory’s Group.
Moving from diesel and petrol fleets to electric vehicles was a key theme, though other future fuels such as hydrogen were also covered.
The group shared thoughts on the financial, commercial and logistical barriers to decarbonisation and ideas for how to overcome them through joint working and collaboration.
The event aims to kick-start ongoing work between all those attending the event to address the pressing issue of climate change through innovation. The participants of the day have joined forces in working groups to move towards a greener future.
Councillor Richard Wilkins, Somerset Council’s Lead member for Transport and Waste Services, said,
Everyone involved understands the urgent need for change across the sector to make a significant positive impact on our environment, and that this is best achieved by working with each other.
We saw fascinating case studies and had a really positive discussion. There is a welcome commitment to work together to move to a more sustainable Somerset, benefiting our environment and future generations.
Kier General Manager, Alan Rigby said:
Since starting our highways maintenance contract with Somerset Council we have been exploring the viability of alternative fuel sources to help meet our shared carbon reduction targets and reduce the environmental impact of our operations. It’s been fantastic to bring together organisations that share our passion to create more sustainable transport options that benefit the wider region and look forward to jointly hosting further working groups with Somerset Council and new collaborative partners to see how we can work together to take this further.
