Have you thought about some of changes you can make to operate more sustainably? This article highlights some key steps in acting more sustainably and how we can help.
One of the biggest challenges facing sustainability is the impact of human activities on the environment. The increase in population, industrialisation, and the use of fossil fuels has led to a significant increase in greenhouse gas emissions. This, in turn, has led to global warming and climate change. Due to the nature of the industry, construction accounts for a large share of emissions generated. The impact on the environment can be reduced by choices, technology, along with a variety of other factors.
Circular Economy
We’re all aware of the impact of recycling. Consumer recycling, especially, has become second nature for most of the UK to reduce waste and give a new life to old material. A circular economy is a production and consumption model designed to keep resources in use for as long as possible. The model involves minimising waste by reusing and recycling materials, whilst reducing the use of virgin materials. An easy way to think of a circular economy is by thinking of a product that has a life span. When the product becomes old and stops functioning properly, or is unable to be repaired, the materials can be stripped, and either recycled or turned into a new product.
The circular economy model is what we followed when we innovated our Combi Cabin Eco 1.5. The unit’s first life had been exceeded, and it was not viable to repair. Instead of sending the unit to the landfill, the engineers at our Bury Depot worked at completely renovating the unit by using recycled materials, where possible, and using sustainably sourced timber to give the unit a second life, whilst limiting materials going to landfill.
Buying Consciously
Environmental sustainability has provided a reason for us to look deeper into how and what we buy. Taking time to explore or compare a product’s information means that we can choose a more sustainable product that has a positive impact on the environment. With so much information, such as fuel consumption and carbon emissions at our fingertips, it is now easier than ever to make the conscious decision and choose the products or services that reduce your impact on the planet. Back in 2022, we developed our Eco Estimator: an online tool that helps you see the fuel, carbon, and cost savings between our different products. Since launching in September, it has already been used thousands of times to help our customers make conscious decisions on choosing a more sustainable welfare unit.
Smart Technology
The use of smart technology in construction is also a growing trend. Smart technology can help reduce energy consumption and improve a unit’s performance by monitoring or controlling systems. For example, smart thermostats can regulate the temperature of a unit more efficiently, while smart lighting can adjust the brightness and colour of the lighting to suit the needs of the occupants. Smart technology-connected products can help users reduce fuel and monitor CO2 output.
Our latest Hybrid Welfare Van 2.0 has premium telematics, which gives us access to data such as driver usage, co2 emissions, and driving style, which can all be used to help the driver alter their driving habits to use the vehicle economically as possible.
Biofuels
Biofuels are a type of renewable fuel derived from organic materials such as plant matter, agricultural waste, or even animal fats. One type of biofuel that has gained popularity in recent years is HVO or hydrotreated vegetable oil. HVO is made by subjecting vegetable oil or animal fats to a high-pressure, high-temperature process known as hydrotreatment, which removes impurities and creates a fuel with properties like diesel. When burned, biofuels release fewer greenhouse gases, such as carbon dioxide, into the atmosphere. Additionally, the use of biofuels can lead to improved air quality, as they produce fewer pollutants than traditional fossil fuels. Some studies have shown that using biofuels can result in up to a 90% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions compared to traditional diesel fuel. As such, the adoption of biofuels such as HVO can play a crucial role in reducing emissions and promoting sustainability. We performed rigorous testing and can confirm HVO can be used throughout our existing fleet instead of diesel to maximise your carbon reduction.
It’s who we are
Protecting the environment has been part of Garic’s DNA since we first started serving our customers, whether that be innovating products to prevent fuel and oil leaks: the Interceptor Drip Tray, or our Solar Loo that won its first innovation award back in 2002. Reducing our impact, whilst helping our customers to reduce their impact on the environment continues to be a driving force for our business in the industry in which we operate. We’ve always had a goal to be the most sustainable business possible. That kind of goal cannot happen overnight and takes time to achieve due to the nature and technology required, but we’re on the right path and can help you lower your emissions on site.