Discovering Sustainable and Practical Tool Hire and Plant Hire Opportunities

HS2’s track to net zero

11 January 2022

HS2’s track to net zero

As part of its drive towards net zero, HS2 Ltd plans to make its construction sites diesel-free by 2029 and to halve emissions from steel and concrete by 2030 compared with 2021 levels. 

The announcement comes as the organisation also says its trains will be powered by zero carbon energy from the outset, supporting its goal of making HS2 net zero from 2035. 

And as has been pointed out frequently before, many of the the environmentally aware measures implemented on larger construction projects will likely be adopted by other contractors and hirers in the future. 

The first diesel-free construction site is expected to be in place later this year. HS2 says it is collaborating with research organisations to accelerate innovation in low carbon technologies, such as alternative fuels and renewable energy.

From 2035, HS2 Ltd will reduce carbon emissions as much as possible and make those that cannot be eliminated net zero by using natural or technological methods, known as carbon offsetting. This means HS2 will remove the same level of emissions that are produced by its construction, maintenance and operational activities.

Offsetting measures can include capturing and storing carbon emissions using nature-based interventions such as planting new trees to absorb carbon dioxide.

Net zero construction initiatives include using electric forklifts and adopting clean air gas engine technology, initially in site welfare units, to cut carbon on construction sites. 

For more of the latest Site-Eco stories click here


Subscribe

I am constantly adding new content. If you subscribe FREE using the form below, I'll send you my weekly bulletin summarising the latest hire industry stories - and I'll also send you a PDF of 10 fascinating interviews with national and independent hirers, giving their views about business and their secrets of success!