Next week, councillors will be asked to approve the use of hydrotreated vegetable oil (HVO) in 42 of the council’s lorries, vans, and other diesel-powered vehicles.

HVO is a renewable fuel that can reduce CO2 emissions by around 90% per vehicle, potentially cutting the council’s total carbon output by approximately 630 tonnes per year, or 34% overall.

The proposed switch supports Worcester City Council’s commitment to becoming carbon-neutral by 2030, aligning with wider environmental and sustainability goals.

Cllr Karen Lewing, Vice Chair of Worcester City Council’s Environment Committee, said: ‘The majority of our vehicles operate in residential areas, where air pollutants have the greatest impact on local communities.

‘The council is doing its part to keep air quality as clean as possible in these areas, and across our city.’

The one-off cost of buying and installing the fuel tank will be £40,000, according to the local authority.

The recommendation will be discussed at the council’s Environment Committee on Tuesday 4 November.

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