THE operator of Southampton's deep water container terminal has stopped using diesel fuel for its operations.

DP World said it is the first operator in Britain to switch to using hydrotreated vegetable oil in its bid to cut down on emissions.

The new oil is a renewable biodiesel derived from sustainable sources. Using it cuts out more than 80 per cent of net carbon dioxide emissions.

John Trenchard, UK Supply Chain Director at DP World said: “I am delighted that we have successfully made the leap to fuelling all of our fleet and installations at Southampton with HVO.

“This innovation shows our determination to continue playing our part in helping the UK meet its target of delivering the Government’s Net Zero 2050 policy and improving local air quality.”

READ MORE: Man fighting for his life after serious crash on Station Hill, Eastleigh

“We estimate that using HVO will save around 14,000 tons of carbon dioxide on an annualised basis - the equivalent of taking over 8,000 family cars off UK roads each year.

"We have a clear responsibility to reduce the impact of our operations and offer customers solutions that support their own sustainability journeys, which is why we are working with our supply chain partners to accelerate the transition to green energy.

“DP World Southampton moves more than one quarter of all containers by rail and we are encouraging other customers to embrace this modal shift.

"Taken together with DP World London Gateway, we take 300,000 trucks off UK roads each year and every additional daily train we can fill saves up to 6,000 tons of carbon dioxide per year.”

DP World first trialled HVO last year, using the fuel in its forklifts, refrigerated units and straddle carriers.

HVO is regarded as an interim solution while electric and hydrogen powers are being researched and trialled within DP World.

The company announced in September 2021 that it would build a new fully-electric berth in London by 2024.

It comes after DP World stepped away from the Solent Freeport amid criticisms over P&O Ferries' sacking of 800 staff. DP World owns the ferry firm.

A message from the Editor

Thank you for reading this article - we appreciate your support in reading the Daily Echo.

Subscribing to the Echo means you have unrestricted access to the latest news, features and Saints coverage - all with an advertising-light website.

You will also have full access to Saintsplus, your new home for Southampton FC tactical analysis, features and much, much more.

Don't take my word for it - subscribe here to see for yourself.

Follow the latest breaking news in the Southampton area by joining our Facebook group - Southampton News - Breaking News and Incidents

Follow the latest court and crime news on our dedicated Facebook group - Hampshire Court and Crime News