Howdens is embarking on an extensive refurbishment project of half of its 800-strong trailer fleet, as well as expanding its truck fleet with 9 brand-new LNG Volvo tractor units.
The refurbishment initiative, which the trade supplier is doing with the support of transport and logistics specialist TIP Group, will see nearly 400 existing Howdens’ trailers refurbished over the next 10 months, extending their working life for a further 10 years.
Purchasing new trailers for the whole fleet would not only have involved a large capital outlay for Howdens but would have seen a significant tonnage of CO2 emissions generated as part of the manufacturing process. The refurbishment option provides a more sustainable solution and it has been calculated that there will be an approximate saving of 3.9 tonnes of CO2 emissions per trailer by avoiding the emissions generated from the manufacturing process if purchased from new. For the Howdens fleet, this translates to a saving of 1,548.3tCO2e in emissions in total.
The introduction of 9 new Volvo LNG trucks further emphasises Howdens' commitment to reducing its carbon footprint with LNG vehicles lowering emissions compared to their diesel counterparts.
Gareth Sterland, head of transport at Howdens, commented: “It is our responsibility to future proof the transport side of our business in the most efficient and safe way we can, and this is a fantastic method of doing so. The support we are receiving from TIP makes this project possible and we look forward to completion of the programme and to continuing our partnership.”
