Liverpool City Council will consider a new policy next week aimed at dramatically cutting emissions from its vehicle fleet, with a clear pathway toward cleaner operations.
If approved, vehicles owned by the council that are reaching the end of their life will be replaced with electric vehicles wherever possible. For vehicles not due for renewal soon, and where EV alternatives are not yet viable, the council will explore using Hydrogenated Vegetable Oil (HVO) – a fossil-free, renewable diesel made from waste cooking oil, animal fats and vegetable oils.
HVO can be used in any diesel vehicle without modification, allowing the council to achieve substantial emissions reductions quickly.
The council currently operates 568 vehicles, from small cars and vans to large HGVs for waste collection. In 2019, the fleet emitted 3,395 tonnes of CO₂ – around 16% of the council’s total emissions.
While 36 electric vehicles, 143 hybrids and 20 compressed natural gas vehicles are already in use, the new policy would ensure that all vehicles capable of switching to sustainable fuels do so at the earliest opportunity.
According to research from the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero, HVO – though slightly more expensive than diesel – can cut CO₂ emissions by up to 98%.
The transition is a major step toward the council’s goal of becoming net zero by 2030 and supports its Air Quality Action Plan, which aims to improve air quality across Liverpool, creating a healthier environment for residents and visitors.
Councillor Liam Robinson, Leader of Liverpool City Council said: ‘This policy is a major step forward in reducing the Council’s carbon footprint and improving the air quality in our city.
‘This is about leading by example and showing that practical, affordable changes can help us reach our net‑zero ambitions while delivering cleaner, healthier neighbourhoods for everyone in Liverpool.’
Photo: Liverpool City Council