Belfast City Council has revealed that over 200 of its fleet vehicles, which were previously powered by diesel, are now running on Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil (HVO).

The transitioning of the Council's vehicles began in January 2023 after elected members approved the fuel switch in December 2022.

HVO is a low carbon, zero sulphur fuel and is manufactured from waste renewable materials such as rapeseed and sunflower oil.

HVO fuel eliminates up to 90% of CO2 emissions when compared to fossil diesel.

It also reduces nitrogen oxide (NOx), particulate matter (PM) and carbon monoxide (CO) emissions.

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Councillor Ryan Murphy, Lord Mayor of Belfast said: "The aim to transition Belfast to a climate resilient, low carbon city within a generation is ongoing.

"As a Council we recognised the need for a cleaner, and more sustainable alternative to diesel and I am delighted that diesel fuel used in 200 council vehicles including HGV's and street sweepers have now switched to HVO- with no modifications to vehicles needed.

"This switch not only reduces carbon emissions but aims to improve air quality across the city. Additionally, HVO is odourless, improves fuel efficiency, has zero palm oil content and is completely biodegradable."

"Climate change is the most pressing challenge of our generation and improving transport infrastructure within Council will help us reach our targets on moving towards a net zero economy.

"There is work still to be done, but we are moving in the right direction and this progressive switch to HVO aligns with the commitments we made as part of our climate action plans for the city."