Operating in an industry that is renowned for its negative impact on the environment, we take seriously our corporate responsibility to develop a sustainable approach to business activities and be at the forefront of environmental awareness. Our ISO 14001 Environmental Management System initiatives have been carefully developed to help control and manage our this impact.
We are extremely proud to have been announced as finalists in the Business Commitment to the Environmentcategory of the Kent Excellence in Business Awards, which celebrates the achievements of local companies that have developed a sustainable approach to their business.
Fleet
Our modern and efficient fleet is managed through a regular renewal programme and we are proud to operate one of the newest and greenest fleets on the road, with all vehicles having the latest Euro 6 reduced emission standard engines. We also operate three longer length semi-trailers as part of a Department for Transport trial. These are two metres longer than a standard trailer enabling us to deliver more for our miles, reducing emissions, fuel and road risk. Less loads on the road in turn equals less congestion on our motorways.
Driver Behaviour & Development
Through our Driver Certificate of Professional Competence scheme we train our drivers to the highest standards in safe & fuel efficient driving. They are educated to operate vehicles safely, professionally and economically, focusing on reducing excessive acceleration, gear-changing and braking. This directly impacts fuel consumption and emission reduction. Savings achieved from lower fuel costs are channelled back through performance bonuses to further encourage resourceful and safe driving. In-cab telematics and forward facing cameras monitor driving style and behaviour which help facilitate targeted training and ongoing driver development.
Renewable Energy & Resources
We use renewable energy wherever possible. A 10kw wind turbine is active at our transport depot in Sittingbourne and we also have LED outside lighting. Electricity, water and paper usage is monitored and our team are educated to work in an environmentally responsible way. Records are managed and maintained electronically to help reduce reliance on paper.
In our transport yard, rain water from the depot roof is captured in an underground water-harvesting tank which we will use to supply our newly installed wash bay, using recycled water. Drains with interceptors capture surface run-off and any pollutants.
At our Marden site we have developed a sustainable urban drainage system.
In our commitment to cut carbon we have invested in energy efficiency technology at our cold stores in Linton with the Power Perfector which has reduced energy consumption, costs and emissions. Solar panels are also installed.
Landscaping & Tree Planting
A meandering stream runs alongside our yard and we have two hibernaculums for newts, wild flowers and insects. We also landscape and plant trees wherever possible and have planted 16 acres of new woodland and 1.5 miles of hedges.
