Sunbelt and Kier in HVO partnership

Photo: Sunbelt Rentals UK

Sunbelt Rentals UK and Kier have announced a new partnership that will see Sunbelt become the official supplier of Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil (HVO) to the UK-based contractor.

Kier said the partnership will play a key role in meeting its carbon reduction targets, with which it aims to achieve net zero emissions by 2045 and net zero for scopes 1 and 2 by 2039 through a series of near-term greenhouse gas reduction targets and various industry commitments. 

In the next 12 months it expects to use more than 3 million litres of HVO fuel, replacing diesel use in its fleet vehicles and equipment and delivering a reduction in Scope 1 carbon emissions of more than 6,000 tonnes, as well as helping to improve local air quality.

The company said that when produced sustainably, HVO fuel can deliver “significant environmental benefits, including up to 90% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions compared to traditional diesel.”

According to Louisa Finlay, chief people officer, Kier Group, the partnership represents a major milestone in its sustainability ambitions. 

She said, “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).”

Mark Keily, health, safety, and sustainability director, Sunbelt Rentals, said, “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.”

Carley Hutcheon, head of fuel, Sunbelt Rentals, added, “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.”

The two companies also collaborated earlier this year as part of 12 SCSS partners to support the Responsible Sourcing of HVO – A Comprehensive Guide, which establishes guidelines to be environmentally responsible in the procurement of HVO.