NFDC, the UK’s trade federation for the demolition sector, has announced that its members will be expected to phase out the use of red diesel on demolition sites and move to HVO (Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil) fuel, or an alternative low-carbon solution, as part of its wider commitment to tackle climate change.
The alternative fuel policy will apply for NFDC’s 140 accredited demolition contractors and for new members. The Federation will monitor the transition, effective from now until December 2022 when all members will be required to demonstrate their efforts to comply.
NFDC’s membership accounts for approximately 80% of all demolition works in the UK and the switch to HVO fuel as a sustainable alternative will represent a carbon emission reduction of up to 90% compared with conventional fuel.
HVO fuel is readily available and can be used as a drop-in replacement in most modern machinery, without the need for costly modifications. NFDC members will be required to demonstrate that their supply of HVO fuel comes with Proof of Sustainability documentation.
The Federation recognises that mandating all members to use HVO fuel or alternative low-carbon solutions is an important first step in the right direction, and the time for action is now.
Howard Button, CEO of NFDC commented “A number of our members have already adopted HVO fuel in favour of red diesel and we commend them for taking the moral, environmental and social responsibility to reduce carbon on demolition projects. We are confident that our full membership will readily make the change alongside their clients, suppliers, and subcontractors within the value chain.”
As a ConstructZero partner, NFDC will take a firm lead in recommending further demolition sector-specific action to align with the priorities identified within the performance framework. The upcoming guidance document for demolition contractors will apply learnings from collaboration with the Construction Leadership Council (CLC), fellow industry associations, the Federation’s membership, and environmental consultants.
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Originally published Aug 05, 2021 10:57:46 AM, updated June 16 2023.