The district’s air is that little bit cleaner thanks to changes made by the council’s recycling and waste collection contractor.
Veolia UK has managed a 12.6% reduction in emissions at its Folkestone depot between 2020 and 2025 – equating to 152.73 tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent (tCO₂e).
These improvements to monitored emissions are equivalent to roughly 570,000 driving miles or the production of 300,000 vegetarian meals.
Hydrotreated vegetable oil (HVO) – a liquid fuel derived from renewable sources – is now being blended with diesel to cut greenhouse emissions in the collection fleet.
Local operations have seen a reduction in the consumption of diesel (19.53%), electricity (12.34%) and natural gas (16.90%) over the five-year period.
Cllr Jeremy Speakman, Cabinet Member for Waste and Street Cleansing, said: “We’re very impressed by the steps taken in reducing environmental impacts while maintaining a reliable frontline service for residents.”
Scott Edgell, Regional Director at Veolia, added: “We’re proud to be working with Folkestone & Hythe District Council to make essential recycling, waste collection and street cleansing services cleaner and more sustainable.
“Introducing HVO fuel in our existing fleet is helping to reduce its environmental impact and support improved local air quality, while smarter routing is reducing the time vehicles spend on the road.
“Together, these changes are helping us deliver a more efficient service today while supporting environmental security and a more sustainable future for the local community.”