Speedy has committed to adopting science-based targets to achieve net zero carbon emissions by 2050.

An emissions target is considered ‘science-based’ if it is in line with the reductions needed to meet the global commitment under the Paris Agreement to limit global warming to well-below 2°C above pre-industrial levels. In the long term, reducing the carbon output of Speedy’s hire and vehicle fleet through the use of solar, hybrid, electric and hydrogen technologies will help to achieve this goal.

Speedy’s targets will be verified by the Science Based Targets (SBT) initiative and published, alongside the first year’s progress, over the coming financial year. Speedy will also be joining the 'We Mean Business' coalition and the United Nations Global Compact’s to accelerate an inclusive transition to a net zero economy.

The move to commit to an SBT reinforces the firm’s position on setting the pace in the UK hire sector, including trialling a number of electric delivery vehicles, a hybrid and electric company car fleet, launching the first 7-tonne Electra eStar beavertail truck in the UK and being the first hire provider to switch to fuelling powered access machinery exclusively with HVO.

Speedy Chief Executive Russell Down said: "I am proud to announce that we are the first hire company in the UK to commit to net zero carbon emissions under science-based targets before 2050. We are committing to this to challenge ourselves in a transparent and measurable way.

“As a key enabler within the supply chain, our aim is to inspire confidence in our people, customers and supply chain partners by reducing the carbon output of our hire and vehicle fleet through the use of new technologies. We will be working collaboratively with all our stakeholders to deliver net-zero carbon within the industry.”