FIREFIGHTERS are joining efforts to reach net zero goals in Warwickshire.
Warwickshire Fire & Rescue Service (WFRS) is trialling the introduction of electric vehicles, with the aim of reducing carbon emissions.
It is part of the pledge by Warwickshire County Council, of which WFRS is a part, to be net zero by 2030 and to lead the county to be the same by 2050.
Moving to an electric-powered fleet of vehicles is seen as a key step in the journey to reduce carbon emissions and WFRS is currently trialling the Hyundai Kona, with a Kia EV6 soon to follow, which will be used for response. Both produce no exhaust emissions and are cheaper to run.
This trial could pave the way for the delivery of further electric response vehicles to be added to the fleet over the next two years.
To reduce its greenhouse gas emissions on fire appliances, WFRS will soon be trialling the use of bio-diesel fuel in some of their vehicles, starting with non-operational vehicles such as driver training appliances.
Even though fossil diesel and green diesel can be mixed, the fire service is keen to ensure only one type of fuel is used for the trial so any issues can clearly be identified as either the engine or fuel.
Green diesel is a direct replacement for fossil diesel, with tests showing that it does not have a direct effect on performance or damage the vehicles. It also has a higher flash point for spillages and storage, meaning it is less flammable.
Some of the benefits of switching to green diesel include:
– Reducing carbon emissions by 90 per cent compared to fossil diesel, as certified by the ISCC.
– It is made entirely from waste
– It is sourced under the Red II directive
– It does not deteriorate when stored in a tank
– It provides a near identical energy output in both variable and fixed speed engines
Should the trial be successful, the service aims to roll out green bio-diesel across its fuel reserves in the future, reducing its greenhouse gas emissions as a result.
WCC spokesman for WFRS Andy Crump said: “Transport can make a huge contribution to air quality and the environment. Switching to electric vehicles is just one positive way in which we can reduce the amount of pollutants in our towns and cities.
“We’re committed to supporting the county of Warwickshire in its efforts to tackle climate change and switching to electric and bio-diesel fuels are steps we can take to make our work more environmentally friendly.”
