Kier announces the appointment of Sunbelt Rentals as its official supplier of Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil (HVO) fuel for its operations.
This strategic partnership will play a crucial role in helping Kier meet its ambitious carbon reduction targets and further its commitment to sustainable practices.
Over the next 12 months, it is expected that the Group will use c.3m litres of HVO fuel, replacing diesel use in its fleet vehicles and equipment; delivering a reduction in Scope 1 carbon emissions of more than 6,000 tonnes, as well as helping to improve local air quality.
When produced sustainably, HVO fuel, a renewable diesel produced from waste feedstocks, can deliver significant environmental benefits, including up to 90% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions compared to traditional diesel.
“This partnership is a major milestone in our sustainability ambitions. The use of HVO fuel will serve as a transition fuel while developments continue in electrified solutions and other zero-carbon fuels.
“Working with Sunbelt Rentals, an industry leader with a proven track record, will support our near and long-term carbon reduction targets, recently validated by the UN-backed organisation, Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi).”
Louisa Finlay, chief people officer
The “Responsible Sourcing of HVO – A Comprehensive Guide,” released earlier in the Summer, established guidelines to be environmentally responsible in the procurement of HVO. Developed by Action Sustainability for the Supply Chain Sustainability School (SCSS), Kier and Sunbelt Rentals were part of twelve SCSS partners to support this guidance to address the sustainability challenges associated with HVO fuel.
“Our collaboration on the HVO project highlights our dedication to our sustainability strategy, Our Planet. By partnering with industry leaders like Kier Group, we’re taking significant steps towards decarbonising the construction sector and actively contributing on the path towards a greener future.”
Mark Keily, Health, Safety, and Sustainability Director at Sunbelt Rentals
“Our partnership with Kier to supply them with HVO fuel as a sustainable alternative to traditional diesel highlights our commitment to advancing sustainability practices in the industry. Together, we’re dedicated to achieving significant reductions in Kier's scope 1 carbon emissions, demonstrating that, with joint efforts, we can lead the way for a more sustainable and environmentally-responsible approach to fuel consumption.”
Carley Hutcheon, Head of Fuel at Sunbelt Rentals
This is the latest action from Kier to support its sustainability ambitions, as set out in its Building for a Sustainable World framework. Since 2019, the Group’s efforts have resulted in a 70% scope 1 and 2 reduction.