Strawson Ltd, a prominent UK farming business specializing in carrots and parsnips, has recently made a significant stride towards sustainable logistics by successfully completing a trial using electric heavy goods vehicles (eHGVs) to transport fresh produce to Sainsbury’s Regional Distribution Centres (RDCs). This groundbreaking project showcases a mutual commitment between Strawson Ltd and Sainsbury’s to mitigate carbon emissions throughout their supply chains, setting a new benchmark for environmentally friendly agricultural and food logistics.
The trial entailed the transportation of temperature-sensitive produce from Strawson Ltd’s storage and packing facility near Newark to Sainsbury’s RDCs, operating 7 days a week with refrigerated trailers utilizing Voltloader’s fully electric HGVs. Voltloader also provided the necessary charging infrastructure to ensure the trucks were always ready for the next load. Additionally, the trial incorporated SunSwap’s fully electric refrigeration unit, powered by solar panels mounted on the trailer’s roof.
Initial findings from the trial have surpassed expectations, with the electric fleet achieving an impressive reduction of over 19 tonnes of CO₂ emissions in comparison to traditional diesel-powered vehicles, while also diminishing the emission of other harmful pollutants. The electric refrigeration unit played a significant role in this noteworthy achievement.
Gavin Hodgson, Director of Agriculture, Aquaculture, and Horticulture at Sainsbury’s, expressed his thoughts on the initiative, stating, “We firmly believe that collaboration within the food industry is essential to addressing climate change issues, and we are continuously seeking avenues to work together to minimize agricultural disruptions. Facilitated by our valued supplier, Strawson Ltd, this trial of Voltloader’s electric HGVs for transporting our crops exemplifies our commitment to reducing carbon emissions within our operations and demonstrates the positive outcomes that can be achieved through enduring partnerships.”
This pioneering collaboration between Strawson Ltd and Sainsbury’s signifies a monumental step towards fostering sustainable practices within the agricultural and food logistics sectors. By leveraging the capabilities of electric heavy goods vehicles and adopting innovative solutions such as solar-powered refrigeration units, both companies have exemplified their dedication to reducing their environmental footprint and promoting a greener future for the industry.
Moving forward, Strawson Ltd and Sainsbury’s plan to expand the utilization of electric vehicles within their supply chains, with the ultimate goal of achieving a more sustainable and eco-friendly approach to logistics. By embracing cutting-edge technologies and forming strategic partnerships, these industry leaders are paving the way for a more sustainable future in agriculture and food distribution.
In conclusion, the successful trial of electric heavy goods vehicles for transporting fresh produce represents a significant milestone in the journey towards sustainable logistics within the agricultural sector. Through collaborative efforts and innovative solutions, companies like Strawson Ltd and Sainsbury’s are demonstrating their commitment to reducing carbon emissions and driving positive change in the industry. As the momentum towards sustainability continues to grow, it is imperative for businesses to embrace eco-friendly practices and work towards a more sustainable future for generations to come.
