London Gatwick Airport has announced a significant reduction in carbon emissions, achieving a 90% decrease by switching its diesel vehicle fleet to hydrotreated vegetable oil (HVO). This move has led to an annual carbon saving of over 950 tonnes.

Derived primarily from recycled cooking oils, HVO fuel dramatically lowers greenhouse gas emissions by up to 90% and reduces air particulates by 85%. As a cleaner alternative to traditional diesel, HVO is nearly devoid of impurities and offers cleaner combustion. It has the potential to decrease other emissions like Carbon Monoxide, with the extent of reduction varying based on the engine type and how it's used.

The airport's initiative includes transitioning all 300 of its diesel vehicles, which constitute 85% of its total fleet, to HVO. These vehicles will use HVO until they are phased out in favour of electric vehicles, aligning with Gatwick's Decade of Change Sustainability Program. After thorough testing, Gatwick found that HVO does not compromise vehicle performance. This ensures that essential vehicles, such as fire engines, maintain their operational efficiency, including the ability to reach any part of the airfield within three minutes in emergencies.

Gatwick is committed to further reducing its carbon footprint by investing over £250 million in low carbon alternatives for its entire operations, enhancing energy efficiency, and increasing its reliance on renewable energy sources, including on-site solar power, while sourcing 100% of its electricity from renewable energy.