TIP Group collaborates with Howdens Joinery for a sustainable trailer fleet refurbishment, aiming to cut CO2 emissions.
- The initiative focuses on refurbishing half of Howdens Joinery’s 800-trailer fleet over 10 months, prolonging their usage by a decade.
- This refurbishment approach prevents significant CO2 emissions, totaling approximately 1,548.3 tonnes saved.
- New Volvo LNG trucks enhance the fleet, offering a cleaner alternative to diesel vehicles.
- Recycling trailer components such as curtains and buckles contributes to environmental sustainability.
In a bid to enhance sustainability, TIP Group is partnering with Howdens Joinery in an ambitious project to refurbish 400 out of their 800-strong trailer fleet. This effort is designed not just to update existing equipment, but also to extend the functional lifespan of these vehicles by an impressive 10 years. The process involves a comprehensive overhaul, including stripping, shot-blasting, repainting, and re-fitting each trailer with new components and advanced telematics systems, ensuring operational efficiency and environmental consciousness.
Purchasing new trailers would have not only increased capital expenditure significantly but also led to a substantial rise in CO2 emissions during their manufacture. It has been estimated that this refurbishment strategy will save about 3.9 tonnes of CO2 emissions per trailer. Overall, this translates into a formidable reduction of 1,548.3 tonnes of carbon dioxide emissions for the entire fleet, marking a significant step towards environmental stewardship.
Further solidifying its commitment to carbon reduction, Howdens is introducing nine new Volvo LNG tractor units into its fleet. These units are set to lower emissions considerably when compared to traditional diesel models, representing a shift towards more sustainable transport solutions.
In addition to the refurbishment of trailers, TIP Group places significant emphasis on recycling practices. The curtain trailers are not merely discarded; every part is meticulously recycled. Components such as buckles and poles are salvaged for metal recycling, while the fabric of the curtains is repurposed into accessories, effectively diverting approximately 60 tonnes of waste from landfill.
Markus Pretzl, Head of ESG at TIP, underscores the project’s environmental benefits: “Using the expected lifetime mileage and scope of refurbishment of each trailer across the Howdens fleet, we are able to calculate the carbon dioxide savings for the business,” highlighting the tangible impacts of strategic refurbishments over outright replacements.
This strategic collaboration underscores a profound commitment to sustainability and efficiency in fleet management.
