The council received the Grounds Maintenance & Waste Management Award at the IVECO (Industry Vehicle Corporation) Mission Awards in November, where the judging panel recognised the local authority’s ‘commitment to environmental sustainability’.

According to the council, its introduction of five IVECO eDaily rubbish collectors was of particular interest due to the high performance of the vehicles that are powered without diesel fuel.

The vehicles have been assigned to the local authority’s street cleansing team, supporting them in delivering services such as cleaning public areas and emptying litter bins.

Judges commended the ‘unique build and striking livery’ of the vans, which are fitted with 360-degree camera systems and safety guards, the council has confirmed.

Cllr Wendy Maples, Cabinet Member for Neighbourhood Wellbeing, said: ‘Winning this award is a fantastic endorsement of our commitment to a cleaner, greener district. Integrating these state-of-the-art electric vehicles into our waste management operations is a significant step towards our goal of becoming a carbon neutral local authority.

‘I'm really proud of the fleet team's creative thinking and determination. We are leading the way in sustainable waste collection, providing an emission-free service for our residents. These clever vehicles prove that we don't have to compromise on power or reliability to be environmentally responsible.’

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