Ainscough becomes carbon neutral

UK Rental Company Ainscough Achieves Carbon Neutral Certification

Date: 22.03.2024

UK rental company Ainscough has become the first company in Europe to be certified as carbon neutral by ‘Carbon Footprint Ltd’.

In 2018, Ainscough conducted a carbon audit which revealed that it produced 15 thousand tonnes of CO2 annually, with 90 percent of that coming from diesel fuel. To reduce emissions, the company conducted real-life field trials to test the impact of switching to Hydrogenated Vegetable Oil (HVO) as a fuel alternative. Following successful trials, Ainscough adopted HVO fuel across its 30 depots and 400 cranes, completing the process in 2022.

After a full year of using HVO fuel, Ainscough claims to have reduced its emissions by 80 percent. To offset the remaining carbon emissions, the company has invested in a Uruguayan wind farm, offsetting 700 tonnes, followed by a further 3,023 tonnes supporting a solar power carbon offset project in India.

In addition, Ainscough will conduct a series of energy audits across its depots to create “eco depots” with 20 percent more efficient energy use and reduced fuel consumption. The company has also been trialling the new 50 tonne Liebherr LTC 1050-3.1E hybrid crane in and around London.

Tony Morley, representative of Ainscough, stated that the company established a carbon footprint taskforce to address the significant issues it faced. The carbon neutral certification serves as validation for their efforts, but Morley emphasizes the importance of not becoming complacent and shifting focus towards achieving net zero emissions.

He adds, “At Ainscough, we remain confident in our commitment to the UN’s 17 sustainability aims and we look forward to continuing our collaboration with Carbon Footprint Ltd. to deliver positive outcomes for us and the environment.”

Dan Hill-Morriss of Carbon Footprint Ltd. commends Ainscough for their achievements in reducing emissions and becoming certified as a carbon neutral organization. He expresses excitement to work further with Ainscough on their journey to net zero emissions in the future.

Vertikal Comment

Ainscough has made significant progress in reducing its carbon footprint and should be applauded for its efforts. However, it is important to note that being certified as carbon neutral is not the same as being carbon zero. The switch to HVO fuel and the purchase of offsets may not align with everyone’s definition of true carbon neutrality.

Questions may arise regarding the sustainability of HVO fuel, especially if it is imported rather than produced locally using waste products or locally grown crops. Other factors that can contribute to achieving net zero emissions include installing solar panels, heat pumps, and creating green spaces within facilities.

It is likely that discussions surrounding these topics will continue in the coming years.

SDGs, Targets, and Indicators

1. Which SDGs are addressed or connected to the issues highlighted in the article?

• SDG 7: Affordable and Clean Energy
• SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure
• SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities
• SDG 13: Climate Action
• SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals

The article discusses Ainscough’s efforts to reduce its carbon emissions and achieve carbon neutrality. This aligns with SDG 7, which focuses on affordable and clean energy, as well as SDG 9, which emphasizes sustainable industry and infrastructure. The company’s commitment to reducing emissions in its depots and improving energy efficiency also relates to SDG 11, which aims to create sustainable cities and communities. Additionally, Ainscough’s actions contribute to SDG 13 by addressing climate change through emission reduction measures. Lastly, the company’s collaboration with Carbon Footprint Ltd. demonstrates a commitment to SDG 17, which promotes partnerships for sustainable development.

2. What specific targets under those SDGs can be identified based on the article’s content?

• Target 7.2: Increase the share of renewable energy in the global energy mix
• Target 9.4: Upgrade infrastructure and retrofit industries to make them sustainable
• Target 11.6: Reduce the adverse per capita environmental impact of cities
• Target 13.2: Integrate climate change measures into national policies, strategies, and planning
• Target 17.16: Enhance the global partnership for sustainable development

Based on the article’s content, Ainscough’s adoption of Hydrogenated Vegetable Oil (HVO) as a fuel source aligns with Target 7.2 of increasing the share of renewable energy in the global energy mix. The company’s efforts to reduce emissions and improve energy efficiency in its depots and cranes correspond to Target 9.4 of upgrading infrastructure and retrofitting industries to make them sustainable. Ainscough’s commitment to carbon neutrality and its investment in renewable energy projects support Target 11.6 of reducing the adverse per capita environmental impact of cities. The company’s collaboration with Carbon Footprint Ltd. demonstrates a commitment to Target 17.16 of enhancing the global partnership for sustainable development.

3. Are there any indicators mentioned or implied in the article that can be used to measure progress towards the identified targets?

No specific indicators are mentioned or implied in the article that can be used to measure progress towards the identified targets.

4. Table: SDGs, Targets, and Indicators

Behold! This splendid article springs forth from the wellspring of knowledge, shaped by a wondrous proprietary AI technology that delved into a vast ocean of data, illuminating the path towards the Sustainable Development Goals. Remember that all rights are reserved by SDG Investors LLC, empowering us to champion progress together.

Source: vertikal.net

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