Biffa has partnered with upcycling business Lunaz which will give end-of-life refuse trucks electric motors, replacing diesel engines and saving 82% of embedded carbon within the truck. An initial order of up to 10 upcycled 26-tonne electric vehicles has been confirmed which will save as much as 210 tonnes of carbon.
The change comes as part of Biffa’s 2030 UN commitment to reduce emissions by 50%. Each upcycled refuse truck is claimed to emit zero exhaust emissions and save 21 tonnes of carbon versus if the company were to replace their fleet with new vehicles. Lunaz has committed to supporting Biffa’s transition to electric trucks over the next decade.
David Lorenz, Lunaz CEO, said: “Biffa has led from the front in pioneering more sustainable waste management practices here in the UK. At Lunaz, we are proud to assist in delivering Biffa’s sustained commitment to leading the waste management industry’s transition to net zero. By embracing the power of upcycling as a dramatically more sustainable course to the transition to a clean air fleet, Biffa delivers economic value to its stakeholders while delivering a great ecological dividend to the planet. By finding new life for diesel-emitting vehicles, we are delighted to stand together with a leading UK company in creating the potential to reduce global emissions at scale.”
Lorenz added: “Lunaz UEV refuse trucks have been developed following live operator feedback with Lunaz engineers frequently taking part in refuse truck rounds to ensure an intimate understanding of front-line requirements. Critical enhancement to driver comfort and operation have been included, ensuring Biffa’s operational crew feel the benefit of the latest technology and innovations”.
It’s claimed that with every 20 vehicles upcycled, there will be a £1m benefit to taxpayers from saved public money.
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