In a bid to further reduce its equivalent carbon dioxide (CO2e) emissions, Stagecoach is introducing cleaner, greener fuel on almost 1,000 vehicles in its Scottish bus fleet.
The Perth-based operator has introduced B30 – 30% biofuel and 70% diesel – to 530 buses and coaches across its East Scotland business, and to almost 400 vehicles at Stagecoach West Scotland.
Stagecoach buses in both East and West Scotland previously used a mix of 5% biofuel and 95% diesel. The new fuel is expected to reduce the companies' carbon footprint – cutting CO2e emissions from the vehicles by up to 22%.
Stagecoach regional director for Scotland Sam Greer explains that the B30 fuel blend introduction was achieved in partnership with Motherwell-based Argent Energy, which manufactures biofuel from waste.
The companies have worked together before on several projects, including the UK's first bio-buses in Kilmarnock in 2007 – a fleet of nine buses that continue to operate using 100% biofuel.
"We are constantly striving to make our business more sustainable and we believe the introduction of this greener biofuel will make a real difference to our carbon footprint," comments Greer.
"Public transport can play a key role in reducing climate change, and new technology, such as the use of biofuel and improved environmental monitoring systems, is crucial," he adds.
