The move has involved introducing renewable fuel to sustain its previously diesel-powered waste and recycling, street cleaning and grounds maintenance vehicles.

According to the council, the local authority’s carbon footprint is anticipated to decrease by roughly one third following the change, supporting its climate-conscious objectives and 2040 net zero target.

The switch is part of the council’s 2025-2030 Climate Emergency Action Plan, which includes a commitment to cutting operational emissions.

Cllr Mark Chilton, Cabinet Member for Chichester Contract Services at Chichester District Council said: ‘We're proud to be taking this important step towards a cleaner, greener future’.

He added: ‘While the council's own emissions represent less than 0.5% of the district-wide total, our diesel fleet accounts for a significant proportion of our operational emissions.

‘Switching to HVO is a practical and effective way to reduce our carbon footprint that doesn't require us to replace existing vehicles, fuel storage systems, or pumps’.

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