Innovating Sustainability in Powered Access Industry
Key Ideas
  • Sunbelt Rentals is exploring hydrogen as an alternative energy source in its sustainability efforts, aiming to reduce carbon emissions and environmental impact.
  • Transitioning to low-carbon energy sources like hydrogen and electric machines presents challenges such as infrastructure diversity, public sector procurement, and cost-effectiveness.
  • Despite challenges, companies like Amey see significant opportunities in adopting low-carbon access equipment to support science-based targets, net-zero ambitions, and offer sustainable solutions to clients.
  • Sunbelt Rentals is investing in a variety of sustainable options, including HVO, electric-powered machinery, and hybrid technology, to provide greener solutions without compromising performance or reliability.
In preparation for World Environment Day, the Powered Access sector is focusing on sustainability initiatives to reduce carbon emissions and adopt more environmentally friendly practices. Sunbelt Rentals, operating in the UK and Ireland, is at the forefront of this movement, exploring the potential of hydrogen as an alternative energy source through its Sunbelt 4.0 strategy. William Temple, head of powered access at Sunbelt Rentals, highlights the benefits of hydrogen in cutting environmental impact and outlines the company's commitment to testing and promoting new low-carbon technologies. However, challenges such as high costs and infrastructure limitations hinder widespread adoption. Emily Davies, ESG director for Amey, acknowledges the hurdles in transitioning to electric or hydrogen-powered machines, emphasizing the importance of supporting science-based targets and net-zero goals. Sunbelt Rentals' sustainability efforts also extend to investing in HVO, electric-powered machinery, and hybrid technology to offer practical and sustainable solutions while ensuring compatibility with Stage V equipment. Despite the obstacles, the industry sees the shift towards low-carbon access equipment as an opportunity to drive innovation and create a more environmentally responsible culture.
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