Businesses can boost transport efficiency and help environment (From York Press)

Businesses can boost transport efficiency and help environment

8:16am Wednesday 6th March 2013 in Business news

BUSINESSES in York are to be given a helping hand in their attempts to become more environmentally-friendly.

The ECO (Efficient and Cleaner Operations) Stars Fleet Recognition Scheme will allow operators of vans, trucks, buses and coaches to gain recognition for their efforts in improving efficiency, reducing fuel consumption and cutting emissions, improving York’s air quality in the process.

The scheme, launched by City of York Council, will award each member a star rating based on an assessment of how “clean” their vehicle fleet is and the “good practice” they show in areas such as fuel management, driver skills, maintenance and performance monitoring.

All members will have an action plan to show them how they can improve their rating and highlighting any issues or support available.

Coun Dave Merrett said: “By signing up, businesses could cut costs of up to £2,300 per vehicle and improve environmental practice, with tailored support on offer for each company”.

The council’s own fleet is already signed up to the scheme, along with Yorkshire Ambulance Service, White Rose Transport and Nestlé.

The food giant is the first five-star ECO Stars operator. Fleet LGV manager Graham Lyon said: “We recognise the need to look for ways to further improve our environmental credentials and firmly believe being a member of ECO Stars will help us improve our transport efficiencies.”