Sustainability is the key to the future of the planet. We must all do our bit to help change the way we live in order to have a ‘greener’ outlook and output, to live sustainably wherever possible, to recycle and to reduce our carbon footprint. This goes for individuals right up to the largest corporations and at government level. There are some industries more than others where the impact of the work is greater on the planet, such as in construction, large engineering projects and the like. Within these worlds, contract plant hire plays an important role, furnishing companies and projects with the latest models of equipment and machinery to ensure that work gets completed on time, to budget, and to the highest standards.
This is why plant hire must be proactive as an industry to ensure that it is practicing what it preaches, and that sustainability plays an integral role in the everyday aspects of work and tasks that take place.
Electric options where possible
One of the biggest ways in which plant hire companies can look to a sustainable future is to explore the possibility of electric equipment wherever it is possible. It is an industry that has relied heavily on fossil fuel-powered machinery in the past, and although it isn’t quite possible to have an entire fleet of electric and battery-powered machines yet, some smaller models of equipment are available in this way, producing zero emissions when used.
Greater tracking and analysis
Tracking and analysis are key in how machinery, equipment and vehicles are used. It allows companies to see where things can be altered and tweaked for greater efficiency, identifying key areas and refurbishing or replacing equipment accordingly. Lifecycle management of products and greater analysis of movement and use helps to make for higher levels of efficiency all round.
Smart fuel use
Smart fuel management is another step in the right direction, with modern, smart fuel tanks allowing any site and project manager to have tight control over the management of fuel. It helps to have accurate fuel tracking data and analysis, in order to tweak the approach of vehicle and machinery use on site, and to understand how much fuel is required at each stage of a project.
Latest models to meet regulations
Plant hire companies that are constantly looking to upgrade their fleet will do so to include Stage V engines, which adhere to the strict emissions standards, lowering harmful pollutants and having a lower impact on the environment. Every new model of machinery will look to improve upon the last iteration, and sustainability and lower emissions are key to this approach.
Brand recognition and inspiration
By setting a company up to look forward and with a view to be sustainable and reduce its carbon footprint, a plant hire company can improve its brand recognition. Not only that, but it can also be inspiring to employees, to suppliers, and to clients, ensuring that everyone can see that the direction it is moving towards in terms of sustainability and a green way of thinking is the best way for all of us.
Working with a plant hire service that genuinely looks to be sustainable at every turn is desirable for most modern businesses, especially in industries such as construction that have the biggest impact on the environment and must look for new ways to reduce operational carbon footprint.
