Sustainability Today Issue 475
Sustainability Today is circulated nationally to key decision makers within UK industry. Our aim is to encourage UK industry to embrace issues of sustainability and best practice in order to reduce their carbon footprint.
Sustainability Today is circulated nationally to key decision makers within UK industry. Our aim is to encourage UK industry to embrace issues of sustainability and best practice in order to reduce their carbon footprint.
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SUSTAINABILITY
TODAY
Issue 475 April 2026
Tel: 0121 550 7510
www.sustainabilitytoday.co.uk
energy | water | waste | recycling | sustainability on LinkedIn
and Twitter
RECYCLE
YOUR TYRES,
TUBES
AND LI-ION
BATTERIES
See page 2
7 8 18-19
Lemon Energy
Energy independence isn’t just a green ideal
Cascade Water Products
Micro greywater reuse
Apex Pumps
Celebrating award-winning year of growth
RECYCLE YOUR
TYRES, TUBES AND
LI-ION BATTERIES
Velorim manages the collection of inner
Tyres, Tubes and Li-ion batteries, with over
600 collection sites across the UK.
Help make cycling green and benefit the
environment at the same time.
When you need to recycle your bicycle
tires, inner tubes, and used bike batteries,
where do you go?
At Velorim, we’ve made the process simple
and convenient, as a cyclist, you simply
take them to your local centre, pay your
levy and leave in the knowledge of a job
well done!
Please visit velorim-group.com
Phone 020 3326 8505
Email info@velorim-group.com
Editor’s Comments
Welcome to our April issue
of Sustainability Today!
Explore our hand-picked
features on innovative
companies across the
sustainability, energy,
water, recycling & waste
management sectors.
Now firmly established
as the UK’s largest trade
event for the chemical
sector, CHEMUK 2026 has grown into a central
meeting point for the entire supply chain,
bringing together manufacturers, engineers,
formulators, regulators and logistics
specialists under one roof. On page 4,
we have a full preview of the event.
This September, the renewable energy
sector will converge on Solar & Storage Live
UK 2026, the country’s largest and most
influential solar and energy storage event.
The exhibition is a focal point for innovation,
collaboration and insight across the UK’s
rapidly evolving clean energy landscape.
Read our full preview on page 6.
On the Cover
RECYCLE
YOUR TYRES,
TUBES
AND LI-ION
BATTERIES
See page 2
Contacts
Turn to page 12 to
discover how Pemo
Pumps engineers
high-performance
solutions for the
world’s toughest
fluids. From
mining to biogas,
its Italian-built,
custom-designed
systems prioritise
durability, efficiency
and sustainability, using advanced materials
and seal-less innovation to reduce downtime,
extend lifespan and support cleaner, more
resilient industrial processes today tomorrow.
Other show previews: Utility Week 2026.
Other topics covered: Decarbonisation, Pumps
& Valves, Energy & Power, Biogas, Recycling &
Waste Management, Water Management.
Don’t forget to send us your latest
Business, Industry and Sustainable
news and updates and email us at:
info@sustainabilitytoday.co.uk
SUS Sales Manager, Harriet Parfitt – 0121 550 7510
harrietparfitt@sustainabilitytoday.co.uk
Editorial, Gina Burton – 07483 931474 – gina@sustainabilitytoday.co.uk
Production Manager, Robert Sharp – production@businessandindustrytoday.co.uk
Accounts Department, Paul Whitaker – 0121 824 4742
accounts@businessandindustrytoday.co.uk
For more information or format requirements, see our Media Pack
Unless stated as news, the entire content of this publication is advertorial based.
To place an advertorial or an advert, please call 0121 550 7510.
Contents
SUSTAINABILITY
TODAY
CHEMUK 2026
Preview 4-5
Now firmly
established as the
UK’s largest trade
event for the chemical sector, CHEMUK 2026
has grown into a central meeting point for
the entire supply chain, bringing together
manufacturers.
Solar &
Storage Live
Preview 6
This September, the
renewable energy sector will converge on
Solar & Storage Live UK 2026, the country’s
largest and most influential solar and energy
storage event.
Water
Management 8-9
England is tightening the
taps: Defra’s Review of
Water Efficiency Standards in the Building
Regulations 2010 closed in December 2025.
Biogas 16
C-Zero Markets helps
companies access these
certificates efficiently
and transparently,
connecting corporate
sustainability demand with
renewable gas supply from
across the UK and Europe.
Utility Week
Live Preview
22-23
Utility Week
Live returns
with a significantly expanded programme
that reflects the scale and urgency of
transformation across the UK’s utilities sector.
Energy &
Power 26
The Chemnitz
Research Institute
presents the ESiP
Analyzer – an
analysis tool for energy storage applications
in production (ESiP).
Sustainability Today
is sponsored by
Pemo Pumps –
see them on page 12
CHEMUK 2026 Preview
CHEMUK 2026: Innovation and
sustainability across the supply chain
CHEMUK 2026 is taking place on 20th & 21st May, 2026 at the NEC, Birmingham
N
ow firmly established as the UK’s largest trade
event for the chemical sector, CHEMUK 2026
has grown into a central meeting point for the
entire supply chain, bringing together manufacturers,
engineers, formulators, regulators and logistics
specialists under one roof. Free to attend and spanning
two days, the event is expected to host more than 600
specialist exhibitors alongside a comprehensive speaker
programme featuring over 100 industry experts, offering
a concentrated opportunity to explore innovative
technologies, share knowledge and build collaborative
solutions that advance sustainability.
What sets CHEMUK apart is the breadth of its coverage.
Rather than focusing on a single niche, the exhibition
is structured to reflect the full scope of the modern
chemical industry. Its five co-located show zones
collectively provide a complete view of the value chain,
from raw material sourcing through to manufacturing,
testing and distribution. This integrated approach allows
visitors to navigate seamlessly between upstream
suppliers, process technology providers, laboratory
specialists and downstream service companies, gaining
a clearer picture of how sustainability can be embedded
across every stage of operations.
The Chemicals Supply Zone continues to serve as a
focal point for sourcing and procurement, connecting
buyers with producers and distributors of commodity,
speciality and fine chemicals. For attendees, this is an
important opportunity to explore alternative suppliers
and innovative materials that support greener processes,
while strengthening supply chain resilience in an
increasingly uncertain global environment. Alongside
this, the Chemicals Management Zone addresses the
operational and regulatory challenges that underpin
day-to-day operations, with a strong emphasis on
safe handling, storage, transport and environmental
compliance. As regulatory frameworks evolve across the
UK and Europe, this area is expected to draw particular
interest from those responsible for environmental health,
safety and sustainability.
At the heart of the exhibition, the Process and Chemical
Engineering Zone highlights technologies that enable efficient,
low-impact production. From plant design and process
equipment to automation, control systems and digital tools,
the zone reflects the sector’s ongoing shift toward smarter,
more sustainable operations. Advances in energy optimisation,
waste reduction and data-driven decision-making are expected
to feature prominently, demonstrating how companies can
reduce both costs and environmental impact. Complementing
this, the Chemical Laboratory Zone showcases analytical and
testing capabilities that support R&D, quality assurance and
green innovation. As organisations face increasing pressure
to accelerate development while meeting sustainability
targets, advances in instrumentation, lab automation
and data integration are becoming ever more critical.
Rounding out the exhibition, the Formulated Product
Manufacturer Zone brings a downstream perspective,
highlighting contract manufacturing, blending, packaging
and fulfilment services. Its continued presence
underscores the importance of end-to-end solutions and
the growing demand for flexible, integrated production
models that enable more sustainable product life cycles
and faster routes to market.
Sustainability is expected to dominate discussion
across all areas of the show. Exhibitors and speakers
will explore topics including decarbonisation strategies,
green chemistry, circular economy approaches and wasteto-resource
technologies. As pressure grows to reduce
emissions and improve environmental performance,
CHEMUK provides a platform for sharing practical
solutions alongside longer-term innovation pathways.
Closely linked to this is the challenge of balancing
sustainability with competitiveness, particularly in
energy-intensive sectors, highlighting the critical role of
efficient design, digitalisation and process optimisation in
achieving both environmental and commercial objectives.
Operational resilience is another central focus, reflecting
ongoing concerns around supply chain disruption and
global volatility. The event offers companies the chance
to explore new sourcing strategies, build relationships
with alternative partners and gain insights into risk
management practices that support not only continuity
but also more sustainable operations. Digitalisation
continues to reshape the sector, with advanced process
control, industrial data platforms and automation
systems playing an increasingly pivotal role in reducing
waste, energy consumption and emissions while
improving safety and productivity.
Alongside the exhibition, CHEMUK’s conference
programme offers in-depth discussions with more than
100 sessions delivered by industry leaders, technical
specialists and policymakers. Topics will span process
optimisation, materials innovation, sustainability strategy
and the future direction of UK chemical manufacturing.
Multiple conference stages allow attendees to focus on
areas most relevant to their roles, whether exploring new
technologies, regulatory developments or sustainable
supply chain practices.
In Hall 5, the show floor will be buzzing with live
demonstrations, product launches and opportunities
for hands-on engagement with technologies and services
that help embed sustainability across the value chain.
From raw materials and intermediates to engineering
solutions, laboratory systems and compliance support,
the range of exhibits reflects both the complexity of
the sector and the dynamic shift toward greener,
more responsible operations.
As the UK chemical industry continues to navigate a
period of rapid change, driven by decarbonisation targets,
regulatory developments and the push for circularity,
CHEMUK 2026 offers a timely snapshot of how the sector
is responding.
Please visit:
https://www.chemicalukexpo.com/en
4 Sustainability Today is sponsored by Pemo Pumps – see them on page 12
CHEMUK 2026 Preview
Your partner in process safety,
efficiency, and measurement:
VEGA at CHEMUK 2026
VEGA are exhibiting at CHEMUK 2026 on
20th-21st May at Stand: G20. Discover
VEGA cutting-edge process instrumentation
for level, pressure, interface, and density
measurement and control.
Trusted across the chemical industry, our
sensors ensure precision, efficiency, and safety
in applications like storage tanks, distillation
columns, reactors, and hazardous liquid
storage. Certified to meet stringent safety and
environmental standards, our solutions deliver the
reliability and value your processes demand.
Visit us at CHEMUK to see how we can support
your operations! Experience live demonstrations of
our cutting-edge solutions that simplify industrial
processes and enhance operational efficiency:
t The VEGAPULS 6X is a revolutionary radar level
transmitter built for virtually any application.
Simplifying device selection, it helps users find
the perfect instrument for their processes.
Designed for simplicity, safety, and security,
The 6X® meets the complex demands of the
chemical industry. Its versatility, precision,
and ease of use make it a trusted solution for
reliable level measurement.
t VEGA offers a complete range of pressure
transmitters for process, hydrostatic, and
differential applications. Engineered for
precision and reliability, our sensors ensure
optimal pressure and level measurement
in any process, complimented with a wide
range of industry, safety and hazardous
area approvals. Discover our unique
CERTEC® ceramic cells, robust designs and
Bluetooth-enabled setup, how they deliver
superior performance, enhanced safety, and
effortless operation for the most demanding
environments.
t VEGA also offers a comprehensive point level
measurement portfolio to suit virtually any
application. From vibrating level switches –
including the robust VEGASWING, VEGAVIB,
and VEGAWAVE – to radiometric solutions
such as PROTRAC, we have the technology to
meet your needs across all process media.
Ideal for minimum and maximum detection,
leak detection, and overfill protection, these
solutions are simple to install and commission.
Once in place, they perform reliably regardless
of installation position or process conditions,
giving you the safety and confidence your
operations demand.
t Get your sensors up and running faster with
the VEGA Tools App – completely free and
compatible with all plics® sensors since
2002. Adjust and configure wirelessly via
Bluetooth, even in hazardous environments,
with an intuitive interface designed for speed.
Effortlessly back up, restore, and visualise data
to gain insights into your processes in no time.
Why choose VEGA?
With decades of expertise, VEGA is the chemical
industry’s trusted partner, delivering innovative,
reliable solutions. Here’s why customers choose VEGA:
t Proven reliability: Our instruments perform
in the harshest conditions for uninterrupted
operations.
t Fast support: Quick response times to meet
the urgency of chemical processes.
t Tailored solutions: Modular devices customised
for your specific needs.
t Rapid delivery: Most products built and
shipped in just 5 days to minimise downtime.
t Trusted partner: We value trust, collaboration,
and comprehensive understanding of your
processes.
t Peace of mind: 3-year UK warranty delivers
long-term value and confidence.
VEGA combines quality, safety, and efficiency to
help you achieve process excellence.
Visit VEGA at CHEMUK 2026
Whether you are seeking to enhance safety,
improve process efficiency, or streamline
operations, VEGA has the process solutions
you need. Visit Stand: G20 to explore the latest
innovative technologies in instrumentation
and engage with experts, and see why VEGA
is a trusted leader in process reliability for the
chemical industry.
For more information about our measurement
solutions for the chemical industry, please visit
our website.
Contact
T +44 (0)1444 870055
info.uk@vega.com
www.vega.com/uk
Sustainability Today is sponsored by Pemo Pumps – see them on page 12 5
Solar & Storage Live Preview
Powering the renewable energy revolution
Solar & Storage Live 2026 will take place on 22nd-
24th September 2026 at the NEC, Birmingham.
This September, the renewable energy sector will
converge on Solar & Storage Live UK 2026, the
country’s largest and most influential solar and energy
storage event. Designed for everyone from installers
and developers to policy makers and large‐scale energy
buyers, the exhibition is a focal point for innovation,
collaboration and insight across the UK’s rapidly
evolving clean energy landscape.
Over three days, tens of
thousands of professionals
are expected to attend,
engaging with more than 500
global exhibitors showcasing
cutting‐edge solar PV systems,
battery storage solutions,
grid‐scale technologies, and
complementary services that
are vital to driving net‐zero
transitions at local, commercial
and utility scales.
Powering net zero with design
A hallmark of the event is its expansive conference
programme, with hundreds of expert speakers
delivering sessions, case studies and product
demonstrations covering everything from regulatory
outlooks and financing models to technical innovation
and deployment best practices. Thought leaders include
sector CEOs, policy advisors, storage specialists and
technical innovators — the sort of voices shaping energy
strategies today.
Hands‐on learning is also central to the experience.
The Installer Training Hub
offers practical skill‐building
workshops on solar panel,
inverter and battery
system installation and
commissioning — ideal for
both new entrants and
seasoned professionals
refining their craft.
Likewise, the Meet the
Installers Zone and
Recruitment Zone provide
dynamic spaces for
connection, whether sourcing expertise for a project or
exploring opportunities within the sector.
Complementing commercial and technical content is a
focus on community and recognition. The Solar & Storage
Live Awards return to celebrate excellence and innovation
across the industry, while curated networking events help
forge partnerships that extend beyond the show floor.
What’s more, sustainability is embedded into the event itself:
organisers will highlight efforts to minimise environmental
impact through paperless operations, collaborate with
eco‐conscious suppliers, and incorporate initiatives such
as carbon emissions tracking and the use of EV charging
infrastructure at the venue to support low‐carbon travel.
In a year where renewable deployment, storage
integration and policy alignment are more critical
than ever, Solar & Storage Live UK promises to be an
indispensable rendezvous for those shaping the future
of Britain’s clean energy ecosystem.
Please visit:
https://solarandstoragelive.com
OPTIMISED PV SOLAR &
BESS DESIGN PACKAGES
AT UTILITY SCALE
TU is a specialist infrastructure design
Uconsultancy supporting the development
of large-scale energy and digital projects
across the UK and internationally, with a core
focus on early-stage, planning-led design.
With over 300 co-ordinated design
packages delivered, UTU has supported
projects representing more than 30GW
of energy infrastructure at planning
stage. Its experience spans Battery
Energy Storage Systems (BESS), groundmounted
solar (PV), Long Duration
Energy Storage (LDES) and data centre
developments.
Operating upstream of EPC contractors,
UTU focuses on feasibility and planning
phases, translating complex technical
requirements into clear, structured,
planning-ready designs. Its strength lies
in balancing technical accuracy with clarity
– producing visually accessible outputs
that retain real-world buildability and
engineering credibility.
Key deliverables include site layouts,
infrastructure co-ordination drawings,
access plans, elevations, sections and
cut & fill assessments, alongside legal
plans prepared for land agreements.
Complementing its 2D work, UTU provides
high-quality 3D visualisation, including
photomontages, CGI and immersive VR.
As a trusted external design partner,
UTU helps developers and consultants
streamline projects from concept through
to planning with clarity and confidence.
Contact
T +44 (0)1684 850019
enquiries@utu.design
www.utu.design
A powerhouse of design expertise
bringing clarity to complexity for ambitious,
future-focused projects.
Please visit www.utu.design
Call +44 (0)1684 850019 • Email enquiries@utu.design
6 Sustainability Today is sponsored by Pemo Pumps – see them on page 12
Energy independence
isn’t just a green ideal
– it’s a financial fortress
By pairing high-efficiency solar panels with advanced battery storage,
you aren’t just cutting bills, you’re locking in certainty.
Please visit:
lemonenergy.co.uk
Made in the UK
Water Management
Micro greywater reuse: The fastest
way to hit Part G targets and build
water smart communities
ngland is tightening the taps: Defra’s Review
of Water Efficiency Standards in the Building
ERegulations 2010 closed in December 2025. It is
consulting on Part G and proposes cutting the new
build water efficiency standard to 105 l/p/d (with a
100 l/p/d option for seriously water stressed areas).
Its consultation is actively seeking evidence on water
reuse to go further, faster.
For dense developments where supply constraints stall
planning, this is a watershed moment. At the same time,
the Future Homes Hub roadmap (‘Water Ready’) sets out
a practical, staged path that begins with fittings first and
explicitly calls out greywater systems as a scalable next
step – provided government gives long term clarity so
industry can invest and deliver at scale. (waterrecycling.uk),
(goodhomes.org.uk) (consult.defra.gov.uk),
(futurehomes.org.uk)
Enter Aqua Gratis by Cascade Water Products: A micro
domestic greywater system that captures bath/shower
water and automatically reuses it for toilet flushing. It
fits neatly behind the WC, stores up to ~140 litres, serves
multiple toilets, and is engineered for low energy, low
maintenance and UK standards compliance - precisely
the sort of solution policymakers want evidence about.
(cascadewater.life), (cascade-enviro.com)
There is no time to waste. The Housing situation is in a
critical state and the water crisis gets deeper.
Why micro greywater – why now?
t Immediate demand reduction at plot level: Toilets
account for a large share of indoor water use; Aqua
Gratis recycles the day’s shower/bath water to cover
most flushing, cutting potable demand by ~30-45%
without behaviour change. That is the step change
dense schemes need to close the gap from 105 to
100 l/p/d and beyond. (cordis.europa.eu),
(cascade-enviro.com)
t Designed for UK homes and regulations: The unit is
built to relevant British standards for non potable
reuse (including BS EN 16941 2/BS 8525), with dual
supply safeguards that align with the regulatory
direction of travel in Part G and its supporting
specifications. (cascade-enviro.com),
(cascadewater.life), (futurehomes.org.uk)
t Compact, quiet, serviceable: The system is micro scale,
low energy, and uses patented self cleaning filtration
with SMART monitoring – vital attributes where plant
space, resident acceptance, and maintenance models
determine viability. (cascadewater.life),
(cascade-enviro.com)
t The system is affordable and depending on the
region, water companies have schemes which
discount water and wastewater connection charges
for new builds: In some instances, this will cover the
cost of the Aqua Gratis system.
t Proven and investable: Aqua Gratis has secured angel
investment (~£350k) to scale manufacture and has
been run continuously in a real home for 3+ years,
giving confidence on reliability for house builders,
housing providers and lenders. (watermagazine.co.uk),
(sustainablebusinessmagazine.net)
The policy context is finally aligned
Defra’s consultation doesn’t just lower the headline litres
per person number; it invites evidence on reuse to shape
how far and how fast standards can tighten – exactly
where micro systems can shine in flatted blocks and
space constrained sites. Meanwhile, the Future Homes
Hub roadmap calls for a clear, sequenced pathway so
industry can plan: fittings first, then innovations like
greywater to reach later rungs of ambition (2030/2035).
That gives architects and developers permission to specify
reuse confidently today, knowing it aligns with where
regulation is headed. (gov.uk) (consult.defra.gov.uk),
(futurehomes.org.uk)
Why Aqua Gratis is a strong choice for dense housing
t Space smart: A behind toilet micro unit avoids big
plant rooms – valuable in apartments – and can be
paired with riser strategies or adopted in townhouses
where utility space is tight. (cascadewater.life)
t Scalable across tenures: Suitable for social/
affordable, Private Rented Sector, student, and HMOs,
with features (SMART metering, leak detection) that
suit estate management models.
(cascade-enviro.com), (bip-it.com)
t Carbon aware: Low energy operation and circular
economy design, with third party recognition (e.g.,
Solar Impulse Efficient Solution label) supporting ESG
reporting for institutional investors. (bip-it.com)
t Compliance ready: Engineered against UK reuse
standards and the dual supply safeguards emphasised
in Part G supporting material and test code sheets
(backflow, segregation, labelling).
(futurehomes.org.uk), (hodkinsonconsultancy.com)
Call to action
t Architects & MEP designers: Put micro greywater
in your base spec for water stressed Local
PlanningAuthorities. Start with Aqua Gratis in
typologies where it’s easiest (townhouses, student,
HMOs), then roll into mid rise apartments with
co-ordinated risers and behind WC units. Share
monitored results with Defra’s Part G team.
(cascadewater.life), (gov.uk)
t Housebuilders & Modern Method of Construction
providers: Pre plumb dual WC feeds in bathroom pods;
value engineer a standard cupboard/duct detail and
lock in supply chain pricing now that Aqua Gratis has
investment to scale production. (watermagazine.co.uk)
t Housing associations & Private Rental Sector: Specify
SMART enabled units with service contracts; use the
data to verify l/p/d outcomes and to support rent/ESG
reporting. (cascadewater.life)
t NGOs & professional bodies: Help normalise micro
reuse with resident friendly guidance and training
for installers and building control. Point to Future
Homes Hub’s roadmap to show the direction of travel.
(futurehomes.org.uk)
t Local & national government: Use planning policy and
pilot funding to seed evidence gathering deployments
in water stressed areas; feed findings straight into
the Part G review to accelerate a nationally consistent
pathway for reuse. (waterrecycling.uk)
Be ‘Water Ready’ today
The UK can’t build the homes it needs without fixing
water demand. Micro greywater reuse is the fastest,
most space efficient lever we have in dense housing –
and Aqua Gratis shows it’s practical, standards ready
and scalable now. Pair it with efficient fittings, prove
the numbers, and let’s turn Defra’s consultation and
the Future Homes Hub roadmap into real, resilient
homes that unlock planning and protect our rivers.
Explore Aqua Gratis or discuss a pilot for your next
scheme: (Cascade Water Products) (cascadewater.life)
Policy & roadmap references: Defra Part G consultation;
Future Homes Hub ‘Water Ready.’ (waterrecycling.uk),
(goodhomes.org.uk), (futurehomes.org.uk),
(consult.defra.gov.uk)
Technical & product references: Aqua Gratis (specs &
installation), certifications, investment, and third party
profiles. (cascadewater.life), (cascade-enviro.com),
(bip-it.com), (watermagazine.co.uk), (cordis.europa.eu)
T 07885 996019
info@cascadewater.life
https://www.cascadewater.life
8 Sustainability Today is sponsored by Pemo Pumps – see them on page 12
Recycling & Waste Management News
A new chapter in plastics recycling: Vecoplan
takes over dry-cleaning specialist
ecoplan AG, an internationally leading
Vsupplier of machines and systems for
shredding and processing plastics, is taking
over the renowned Pla.to GmbH from Görlitz,
a specialist in dry cleaning and washing
technology. This will enable Vecoplan to offer a
comprehensive range of services from shredding
to the state-of-the-art cleaning of plastics.
People in the recycling industry tend to know
each other. This also applies to the two
companies Vecoplan and Pla.to, which have
been working together for many years and
have implemented numerous joint projects.
Pla.to has now emerged from the previous
strategic partnership as a wholly-owned
subsidiary of Vecoplan AG. “Thanks to this
takeover, we’re now in a position to offer our
customers a complete process portfolio in
plastics recycling, from conveyor technology to
shredding and the cleaning process,” explains
Martina Schmidt, Senior Vice President
Recycling at Vecoplan. “In recent years, dry
cleaning has developed from an initial step
to become the core product of a modern
cleaning process. By integrating Pla.to, we
can now play an active role in shaping this
development.” In dry cleaning, impurities are
Toyota Circular Factory: UK operation
leads for Toyota in maximising
the environmental benefits of
end-of-life vehicle processing
oyota Motor Europe (TME) has
Tannounced the establishment of the
Toyota Circular Factory (TCF) to provide
careful and systematic processing of
vehicles at the end of their life to maximise
the environmental benefits of recycling,
repurposing and remanufacturing.
The first TCF will be at Toyota
Manufacturing UK’s Burnaston plant in
Derbyshire. Activities will begin during
the third quarter of this year to develop
a centre of excellence for future recycling
operations across Europe and worldwide.
TCF processing focuses on three key areas:
reusable parts; commodity items that can
be remanufactured; and materials that can
be recycled.
Following a comprehensive validation
process, reusable parts will be
reintroduced to the market through
retailers or distributors. Commodity
items such as batteries and wheels
will be assessed for their potential
remanufacture, repurposing or recycling.
Toyota also intends to recycle raw
materials such as copper, aluminium,
steel and plastic. These could then replace
virgin materials as much as possible in the
production of new vehicle parts.
With this initiative, Toyota aims to significantly
reduce future emissions associated with
vehicle and sub-component manufacturing.
This effort aligns with the company’s global
and European sustainability objectives
and sets a new industry benchmark for
responsible recycling and material reuse.
TME is committed to being fully carbon
neutral by 2040 and achieving carbon
neutrality in all its owned facilities by
2030. By 2035, Toyota plans to have 100%
CO 2
reduction across its European product
line-up.
Please visit:
https://www.toyota-europe.com
removed using a mechanical process without
the need to use large quantities of water.
The result is extrudable flakes that can be
processed immediately, so it’s not surprising
that the resource-saving dry cleaning process
is becoming increasingly important. In addition
to this process, Pla.to also covers the complete
repertoire of state-of-the-art washing
technology. The cleaning specialist’s portfolio
also includes wet cleaning with friction and
intensive scrubbers.
Please visit:
www.vecoplan.com
10 Sustainability Today is sponsored by Pemo Pumps – see them on page 12
Martina Schmidt, Heinz
Schnettler and Werner Berens
have known each other for many
years and are looking forward to
continuing their journey together
UK recycles 157,049 tonnes of
aluminium packaging in 2024
ccording to annual data published
Aon the National Packaging Waste
Database by the Environment Agency,*
the UK recycled an impressive 157,049
tonnes of aluminium packaging in 2024.
Despite a fast-growing domestic market,
capture rates more than kept up with
pace. Indeed, 114,462 tonnes were
recycled through kerbside, bring and
on-the-go systems, while 41,635 tonnes
were recovered from incinerator bottom
ash (IBA). Elsewhere, 952 tonnes were
recycled through other sources.
With an obligation of 151,281
tonnes and a carry-in of 2,811
tonnes, a surplus of PRNs for 8,579
tonnes saw the UK once again
surpass the obligation target.
Commenting on the announcement,
Tom Giddings, executive director
of Alupro, said, “I’m delighted to
report another excellent year for
aluminium packaging recycling.
While the recycling rate for beverage
cans maintained an impressive 81%,
the number of PRNs issued for all
aluminium packaging was also one
of the highest ever recorded.”
“For the past 20 years, we’ve been
investing heavily in optimising our
collection and recycling infrastructure.
A consistently high recycling rate
demonstrates that we’re reaping the
rewards of this long-term commitment.”
For more information about Alupro, or
its MetalMatters and Every Can Counts
behavioural change programmes, please
visit: www.alupro.org.uk. To access the
latest aluminium packaging recycling
data, visit the National Packaging Waste
Database (NPWD).
*Data sourced from the National
Packaging Waste Database (NPWD).
Camira launched 100% textile-to-textile recycled
polyester on UN’s Day of Zero Waste
amira, a leading textile
Cdesigner of hospitality
fabrics has innovated Lucia
T2T, a new recycled polyester
made entirely from 100%
textile-to-textile (T2T) waste.
This innovation aims to
address the growing, global
textile waste crisis and
promote a circular approach
to textile design.
On the United Nations’
International Day of Zero Waste, held last year on March
30th, 2025, Camira unveiled Lucia T2T, which blends preconsumer
textile offcuts from garment manufacturing
and post-consumer clothing that has
reached the end of its wearable life.
Ian Burn, Camira’s Director of
Marketing and Sustainability, said,
“Lucia T2T is a new generation
textile which helps combat the
environmental impact of textile
waste. It’s a reimagination of our first
post-consumer recycled polyester,
previously made from plastic bottles,
now made from 100% textile-to-textile
waste from the apparel industry.”
With millions of tonnes of fabric sent to landfills each
year, and less than 1% recycled into new products 1 ,
fast fashion is a significant contributor to global textile
waste. The UN’s Day of Zero Waste highlighted the need
for circular solutions in fashion, supporting Sustainable
Development Goals 11 and 12.
Lucia T2T is produced through tertiary recycling, where
discarded textiles are shredded, crushed, and treated
to remove colorants and treatments, resulting in a
regenerated polyester with no colour constraints that
meets commercial performance standards.
To learn more, please visit Camira’s website:
https://www.camirafabrics.com/en-uk
1) https://statics.teams.cdn.office.net/evergreen-assets/
safelinks/1/atp-safelinks.html
Precision Built.
Performance Proven.
We are one of the area’s leading waste container
manufacturing companies offering a wide range of
products to the recycling industry. As well as our standard
container range we offer a bespoke design & build
service to meet our customers every need. Our dedicated
manufacturing site is based in the heart of Derbyshire.
With over 20 years experience our family run company
prides itself on high quality products at competitive prices.
Visit www.skipmanufacturers.co.uk
Please contact 01773 541372
Recycling & Waste Management
Built to last, engineered for extremes
emo Pumps began with a clear focus on solving one and wear-resistant hydraulic design, Pemo Pumps enables
of industry’s toughest challenges: handling highly operators to maintain continuous performance even in the
Pabrasive fluids. That early specialisation in the harshest environments.
marble and granite sector laid the groundwork for what
would become a much broader expertise. As Massimo Ghio
explains, “From the stone sector, we moved into mining and
other industries where handling abrasive and sometimes
corrosive fluids is critical,” building deep know-how in
some of the most demanding operating environments.
Today, that expertise is underpinned by a fully integrated
approach. At its production site in Vimodrone, near Milan,
Pemo Pumps brings together design, manufacturing,
assembly, and testing in one location. This allows the
company to maintain strict quality control while ensuring
each pump is engineered to perform reliably under extreme
conditions. “We can control every stage of the process,
which is essential when you are producing equipment that
must operate in such tough conditions,” Ghio says.
While its engineering base remains firmly in Italy, Pemo
Pumps has grown into a global player, supplying solutions
across mining, mineral processing, ceramics, and biogas.
These sectors all share a common challenge: the need
to move abrasive or corrosive fluids efficiently, reliably,
and with minimal downtime. In mining, this includes
transferring tailings and concentrates; in ceramics,
supporting material preparation and dewatering; and
in biogas plants, ensuring smooth handling of fluids
throughout digestion and treatment processes.
Across these applications, the company’s focus is
consistent: improving efficiency while extending equipment
lifespan. Through custom engineering, advanced materials,
This emphasis on tailored engineering sets the company
apart. Rather than relying on standardised models, each
pump is developed around the specific requirements of the
customer’s process. The design journey begins with a detailed
analysis of operating conditions, from slurry composition and
particle size to flow rate, pressure, and temperature. “We
start by really understanding the process,” Ghio explains.
“That allows us to design a solution that is not just
functional, but optimised for long-term performance.”
From there, engineers develop a customised hydraulic
design and carefully select materials to resist both wear
and corrosion. Components such as the impeller, casing,
and sealing systems are engineered to maintain stability
under fluctuating conditions, ensuring reliability over time.
This level of precision is made possible by the company’s
in-house manufacturing capabilities, where engineering,
machining, and assembly are closely aligned. Each pump
is tested before delivery, ensuring it meets the exact
performance requirements of the application.
Material innovation plays a central role in this process.
Ghio highlights HARDALLOY, a material developed to
withstand extreme abrasion and erosion. For more
complex conditions, such as fluids that are both abrasive
and chemically aggressive, Pemo Pumps also uses rubberlined
casings and coated components designed to absorb
impact while resisting corrosion. These solutions are
always tailored, reinforcing the company’s commitment to
durability and long service life.
Increasingly, this engineering approach is also shaped by
sustainability. Efficient pump performance directly impacts
resource use, particularly in processes such as slurry
transfer and filter press feeding, where optimised systems
can reduce water consumption, improve material recovery,
and minimise waste. In sectors like recycling and biogas,
reliable pumping solutions play a key role in enabling
circular processes and renewable energy production.
Durability is another important factor. By extending
the lifespan of equipment and reducing maintenance
requirements, Pemo Pumps helps lower the overall
environmental footprint of industrial operations. Combined
with ISO: 14001-certified environmental management,
this reflects a broader commitment to supporting more
sustainable, resource-efficient industries.
Innovation continues to drive this progress. One of the
company’s most significant recent developments is the
AUS-VE pump series, which introduces a completely
seal-less design. By eliminating traditional mechanical
seals, the system can operate even without fluid at the
suction side while ensuring zero leakage to the external
environment. “This means fewer maintenance issues,
no risk of spills, and a much cleaner and safer working
environment,” Ghio explains.
Beyond its technical advantages, the AUS-VE concept
reflects a wider shift towards simpler, more robust
systems that improve both operational reliability and
environmental performance. Alongside this, Pemo Pumps
continues to refine its hydraulic designs and material
technologies, ensuring its solutions evolve in-line with
increasingly complex industrial demands.
Collaboration remains central to that evolution. By working
closely with customers throughout the design phase, the
company ensures each solution is aligned with real-world
operating conditions. This partnership approach not
only improves performance but also helps clients reduce
downtime, optimise efficiency, and extend the life of their
equipment.
For Ghio, the message is clear: “The right pumping
technology is one that fits the process, protects the
environment, and maximises durability and performance.”
For more information, please see below:
T +39 02 250731
peris@pemo.com
https://www.pemopumps.com
12 Sustainability Today is sponsored by Pemo Pumps – see them on page 12
Recycling & Waste Management
Sustainability Today is sponsored by Pemo Pumps – see them on page 12 13
Flexible Energy Company of the Month
Inside Flexitricity’s
Role in the energy
transition
In this issue of Sustainability Today, we are pleased to feature
Flexitricity as our Flexible Energy Company of the Month
F
lexitricity was founded in 2004 by Dr Alastair Martin,
and was driven by a simple but powerful insight that
large power stations can be efficient or flexible, but
not both. This idea sparked the creation of a new model for
energy management. By aggregating smaller, distributed
energy resources into what is now known as a Virtual
Power Plant, Flexitricity enabled flexibility to sit alongside
traditional generation. In doing so, it allowed large power
stations to run more efficiently, while the system as a whole
became more responsive, cost-effective and lower carbon.
In its early years, the company focused on proving that
flexibility could operate at scale. By building a portfolio of
industrial and commercial assets and collaborating closely with
the system operator, Flexitricity helped integrate demand-side
response into the UK’s energy markets. What began as a niche
innovation has since become central to how the grid functions,
particularly as renewable generation continues to grow.
Headquartered in Edinburgh, Flexitricity operates a 24/7
trading desk and control room that monitors and dispatches
flexibility in real time. While its operational hub remains
in Scotland, the assets it manages are distributed across
mainland Great Britain, enabling a nationwide approach to
balancing supply and demand.
At its core, the company provides a route-to-market for
flexible energy assets, from grid-scale battery storage to
on-site generation and demand response. Using advanced
forecasting, optimisation algorithms and AI, Flexitricity
continuously positions these assets to maximise value
across dynamic energy markets. Now operating over 1GW of
contracted capacity, the company has evolved from a startup
into a key player in the energy transition and has made
dramatic improvements to energy security, reduced emissions
and in unlocking new revenue streams for its customers.
Flexitricity’s stand-out competitive edge lies in combining
market-leading expertise, advanced technology and a long track
record of innovation in flexibility markets, with the entire process
managed end-to-end in-house. CEO Andy Lowe expands, “We
are also known for our transparency, responsiveness and
reliability. As a founding member of the Association for
Decentralised Energy’s Flex Assure scheme, the industry’s
independent code of conduct, we have helped set the standard
for how the market operates. Ultimately, the strongest validation
of that approach is our customer base. We consistently
deliver high levels of satisfaction, reflected in exceptionally
strong customer retention. In a fast-moving and often complex
market, that consistency and trust is what sets us apart.”
Flexitricity has been at the centre of a number of key
milestones as the flexibility market in Great Britain has
evolved, from being the first independent demand response
aggregator to enter multiple NESO balancing services, to
technical firsts such as registering the UK’s first Asset Meter
System IDs and operating as the first Asset Meter Virtual
Lead Party. These developments have helped create a more
accurate, accessible and scalable flexibility market.
Andy highlights two milestones for the company, “If I had
to highlight two in particular, the first would be becoming
a licensed electricity and gas supplier in 2018. That was a
pivotal moment for the business. It significantly expanded
our capabilities, particularly for front-of-meter assets such
as battery storage and gas peaking plant, and allowed
us to operate more fully across wholesale markets, the
Balancing Mechanism and ancillary services.”
“The second is the launch of FlexGO. While demand-side
response has been part of our DNA since day one, recent
market developments have unlocked a much larger opportunity
for behind-the-meter flexibility. In particular, the introduction of
Balancing and Settlement Code modification P415 has enabled
real-time participation in wholesale markets for these assets.”
“FlexGO is our response to that shift. It is designed to
make it simple for industrial and commercial customers
to access these new revenue streams without adding
complexity to their operations. Since launching, we have
seen strong momentum as more businesses look to take
advantage of this next phase in the flexibility market.”
A major recent development for the company is its
acquisition by Drax Group, where it now forms part of the
FlexGen business unit. This marks the beginning of its next
phase of growth, positioning Flexitricity to play an even
greater role in the energy transition.
Looking ahead, the UK Government’s Clean Power 2030
report makes it clear that flexibility will be critical to the
future energy system. Flexitricity is well positioned as
a leader in this space, with its expertise in connecting,
optimising and aggregating distributed energy assets
placing it at the centre of this transition.
“Looking ahead, our focus is on scaling that impact. We will
continue to invest in our technology, particularly in data,
forecasting and AI, to stay at the forefront of increasingly
complex energy markets. We will expand our platforms, grow our
portfolio of assets and deepen our relationships with customers
across both front-of-meter and behind-the-meter flexibility,
supported by Drax’s ambition and commitment,” says Andy.
Flexibility is no longer a niche part of the GB electricity
system as it’s quickly becoming essential to how everything
runs. As more renewable energy comes online, keeping
supply and demand balanced in real time is only going to
get harder, making flexibility a key part of the solution.
This means that for businesses, future-proofing operations and
building a more responsive, resilient, and low-carbon energy
system is more urgent than ever before. Essentially, Flexitricity
does the hard work that allows businesses to get involved,
while supporting their customers during these changes.
For front-of-meter assets, please visit:
www.flexitricity.com
For industrial and commercial sites, please visit:
www.flexgo.energy
T 0131 221 8100
info@flexitricity.com
14 Sustainability Today is sponsored by Pemo Pumps – see them on page 12
Energy & Power
Sustainability Today is sponsored by Pemo Pumps – see them on page 12 15
Biogas
Driving decarbonisation through biomethane certificates
A s businesses
accelerate
their journey
toward net zero,
biomethanebacked
certificates are
becoming an
essential tool for
credible corporate
decarbonisation. C-Zero Markets helps companies access
these certificates efficiently and transparently, connecting
corporate sustainability demand with renewable gas
supply from across the UK and Europe.
A leading consultancy in renewable energy certificates
and power markets, C-Zero Markets specialises in
sourcing and supplying Renewable Gas Guarantees of
Origin (RGGOs) to corporate customers seeking robust,
verifiable solutions to meet their climate commitments.
By bridging the gap between renewable gas producers
and end users, the firm enables companies to reduce
the carbon intensity of their energy consumption while
maintaining flexibility in their power procurement.
Blended Products: Your expert
partner for bulk and packaged
gases and a range of heat
transfer fluids
lended Products has become a recognised
Bname for reliable and competitively
priced specialist gas and chemical products.
Working alongside national as well as globally
recognised brands, Blended provide the
highest levels of service and tailored solutions,
offering a customer focused approach,
which is combined with expertise and
professionalism.
Building on the success of the World Biogas
Association expo in July, where Blended
showcased its ADCO 2
initiative for sourcing
green carbon dioxide, Blended has launched
Delta-T. This revolutionary surfactant,
developed by SafeSol after 15 years of
research, reduces energy consumption
in heating and cooling systems by up to
27%. By lowering water’s surface tension,
Delta-T improves heat transfer efficiency.
In tests, spaces heated 3.2 times faster,
offering quicker temperature control
and significant cost savings.
Alex Robinson, MD of Blended Products,
What sets C-Zero Markets apart is its close working
relationships with anaerobic digestion (AD) owners,
biomethane producers, and renewable asset operators.
This direct access to production sources allows the firm
to curate RGGO supply that aligns with the specific needs
of buyers – whether they require particular feedstocks,
geographic origin, production pathways, or delivery
structures.
Tailored RGGO sourcing for corporate buyers
Through an established network of AD facilities and
renewable gas producers, C-Zero Markets provides
corporate customers with reliable access to RGGO
volumes that can be matched to their individual
sustainability objectives.
Rather than offering generic certificate supply, C-Zero
works closely with buyers to structure procurement
strategies that reflect their priorities – including:
t Feedstock type (such as waste-derived biomethane)
t Certificate vintage and production year
t Certificate accreditation (e.g. ISCC)
t UK or European origin
t Alignment with internal ESG policies and reporting
frameworks.
This tailored sourcing approach ensures companies can
make credible environmental claims while maintaining full
transparency over the origin and characteristics of the
renewable gas supporting their decarbonisation strategy.
Deep links to biomethane producers
C-Zero Markets maintains long-standing partnerships
with anaerobic digestion asset owners and operators,
managing the marketing and commercialisation of their
renewable certificates.
By working directly with producers, the firm provides a
trusted route to market for RGGO supply while ensuring
highlighted Delta-T's ability to reduce
energy costs and CO 2
emissions, with fast
returns on investment. A trial by Bradford
Council demonstrated a 27% reduction in
energy usage, saving £33,600 annually
and cutting CO 2
output by 31 tonnes.
Blended, committed to sustainability and
innovation, sees Delta-T as a key part of
its mission to offer cutting-edge solutions
that drive environmental and economic
benefits.
Read more:
https://blendedproducts.com/is-thisthe-most-precious-liquid-in-uk-homes
T +44 (0)1652 680555
enquiries@blendedproducts.com
https://blendedproducts.com
that corporate buyers gain direct visibility over the
renewable assets underpinning their certificates. This
producer-to-corporate connection supports both sides
of the market: generators maximise the value of their
renewable output, while buyers secure dependable
access to high-quality environmental attributes.
Beyond certificates
Alongside RGGO sourcing, C-Zero Markets also supports
clients across the wider renewable attribute landscape,
including Renewable Energy Guarantees of Origin (REGOs)
and Renewables Obligation Certificates (ROCs).
The firm’s expertise extends into carbon accounting,
environmental attribute strategy, and corporate
decarbonisation planning, enabling businesses
to integrate certificate procurement into broader
sustainability programmes.
C-Zero Markets also offers Clarity+, an innovative solution
that allows companies to retain conventional grid power
contracts while separately procuring renewable certificates
that deliver verified environmental credentials. By
decoupling energy supply from environmental attributes,
Clarity+ provides greater procurement flexibility and can
reduce the cost of achieving renewable energy claims.
Enabling credible corporate decarbonisation
In a rapidly evolving renewable energy market, access to
trusted certificate supply and transparent provenance is
increasingly important. By combining close relationships
with biomethane producers and deep expertise in
environmental markets, C-Zero Markets enables
organisations to secure the renewable attributes they
need to meet ambitious climate goals with confidence.
T 0203 778 2337
info@c-zeromarkets.com
https://c-zeromarkets.com
Systems engineering of
‘cell factories’ almost
doubles output
ngineers from The University of
EWarwick’s Integrative Synthetic
Biology Centre and Imperial College
London’s Department of Bioengineering
have unveiled how to engineer microbial
‘cell-factories’ to boost the manufacture
of high-value chemicals that are used in
everyday products like domestic goods,
clothes and food.
To date cell-based systems have been
less efficient than existing petrochemical
processes due to natural constraints
within living cells. However, through
computational modelling, the team has
demonstrated that simple refinements
of existing methods can boost production
nearly two-fold.
Engineering living cells (such as bacteria
and yeasts) to produce chemicals
has the potential to create a greener
chemicals industry. This could replace
carbon-intensive petrochemical-based
systems with bio-based cell factories that
convert cheap and sustainably sourced
feedstocks into valuable chemicals.
Dr Alexander Darlington, Royal Academy
of Engineering Research Fellow and
Assistant Professor at the University
of Warwick, said, “Our research offers
strategies for designing bacteria that are
easier to implement than those currently
considered state-of-the-art. We tested
around 500 different control mechanisms,
and found two that were new to research,
which offers a clear pathway toward
more efficient bio-based synthesis of
chemicals. This will enable the sustainable
manufacture of everything from drugs to
plastics, products we use every day.”
The full paper is published in Nature
Communications volume 16, Article
number: 279 (2025).
DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-55347-y
Please visit:
https://warwick.ac.uk
16 Sustainability Today is sponsored by Pemo Pumps – see them on page 12
Specialist Vehicle Supplier Company of the Month
Powering the UK’s
specialist vehicle sector
In this issue of Sustainability Today,
we are pleased to feature MV
Commercial as our Specialist Vehicle
Supplier Company of the Month
ounded in 2001, MV Commercial has evolved from
a niche high-end car import business into one of
Fthe UK’s leading providers of specialist commercial
vehicles. That early entrepreneurial instinct – to identify
gaps in the market and respond with tailored solutions
– remains central to the company’s growth story today.
What began as a focused import operation quickly scaled
through strategic acquisitions in the truck hire sector,
laying the foundations for a broader, more diversified
business. From there, MV Commercial identified a clear
opportunity in the market for original-build, purposebuilt
crane trucks – an area that has since become a
defining part of its offering.
Today, the company operates from six strategically located
depots in Airdrie, Livingston, Grantham and Luton – where
it has recently acquired an additional eight acres of land
and invested in new workshops and pits at both the Luton
and Grantham sites – alongside Haydock and Oxford. This
footprint enables MV Commercial to deliver true nationwide
coverage, supported by a fleet of more than 2,000 trucks,
trailers and vans. These assets are made available through
flexible models including hire, sale and rent-to-buy,
reflecting the evolving needs of operators who require both
agility and cost certainty as they modernise their fleets.
At the heart of MV Commercial’s operation is its 60+
acre site in Grantham, home to one of the largest crane
truck manufacturing facilities in the UK. The company
has recently invested over £10 million into this site,
introducing advanced robotic cutting and welding systems
that enhance both efficiency and build precision. It is
here that MV Commercial designs and manufactures a
wide range of specialist vehicles, including tippers, grabs,
hookloaders, skips, crane trucks and dry freight units.
Operating as a manufacturer-independent provider, the
business is able to specify the best components for each
application, rather than being tied to a single OEM - an
approach that not only maximises performance but also
supports longer vehicle lifecycles.
This focus on longevity and utilisation is central to the
company’s contribution to sustainability within the
commercial vehicle sector. While much of the industry
conversation focuses on emissions and alternative
fuels, MV Commercial’s model highlights the importance
of durability, uptime and operational efficiency. By
ensuring vehicles are built to a high specification and
kept on the road for longer, the company helps reduce
the environmental and financial costs associated with
frequent replacement and downtime.
Supporting this is a comprehensive 24/7 service network,
including mobile mechanics and crane engineers who
can respond rapidly across the UK. This minimises
disruption for customers and ensures that vehicles
remain productive. In cases where repairs are required,
MV Commercial’s extensive ready-to-go fleet allows for
immediate replacement, reducing operational delays
and maintaining continuity for clients working in timecritical
sectors.
Steve Horne, Business Development Manager for the
South, explains, “Our vehicles are highly specified and
come with a three-year bumper-to-bumper warranty from
the manufacturer, providing total peace of mind for our
customers. For just two months of advance rental, they
can be on the road with brand new equipment, with no
surprise maintenance costs during the three years.”
A key pillar underpinning this flexibility is MV Asset
Finance, the company’s in-house funding division. In an
industry where access to capital can often be a barrier
to upgrading fleets, MV Asset Finance provides tailored
financial solutions that enable businesses to invest in
modern, efficient vehicles without significant upfront
expenditure. Offering a range of options - including hire
purchase, leasing and rent-to-buy agreements - the
finance arm ensures that customers can structure
payments in line with their operational cash flow.
This integrated approach allows MV Commercial to offer a
fully end-to-end solution, combining vehicle design, build,
supply and finance within a single business. For operators
looking to transition to newer, lower-emission or more
efficient vehicles, this model removes much of the friction
traditionally associated with procurement. By aligning
asset acquisition with financial planning, MV Commercial
enables customers to make long-term investment
decisions with greater confidence.
Importantly, the in-house nature of MV Asset Finance
allows for a more responsive and personalised service.
Financing decisions can be made quickly, with agreements
tailored to real-world usage rather than rigid, one-sizefits-all
criteria. This not only simplifies the process but
also fosters stronger, longer-term relationships between
MV Commercial and its customers – many of whom rely
on the business as both a supplier and strategic partner.
Further strengthening its capabilities is the inclusion of
Fruehauf within the MV Group. As one of the UK’s leading
manufacturers of tipping trailers, Fruehauf enhances MV
Commercial’s production capacity and provides greater
control over its supply chain, ensuring consistent quality
and availability across its product range.
As operational uptime, cost control and environmental
responsibility become increasingly interconnected, the
ability to access the right vehicle at the right time -
supported by the right financial solution – has never
been more critical. MV Commercial’s model reflects
this shift, offering not just vehicles, but a complete,
flexible ecosystem designed to support modern fleet
requirements.
In closing, Steve adds, “Thanks to our manufacturer
independence, ready-to-go fleet and extensive
manufacturing facilities, we offer exceptional choice
when it comes to trucks, trailers and vans. Our in-stock
fleet means purpose-built, high-spec units are
available immediately. We are continuing to develop
our manufacturing capabilities, investing in our sites
and bringing new specialist products to market.”
For more information, contact Steve below:
T 07971 513003
steve.horne@mvcommercial.co.uk
https://www.mvcommercial.com
https://www.mvassetfinance.co.uk
Sustainability Today is sponsored by Pemo Pumps – see them on page 12 17
Pumps & Valves
Apex Pumps celebrates awardwinning
year of growth, investment,
innovation and industry recognition
B
ristol-based pump manufacturer reports record
order book, major investment in UK manufacturing
and wins top sustainability honour at the Pump
Industry Awards 2026.
It has been a phenomenal 12 months
for Apex Pumps, with the British
manufacturer celebrating one of the
most successful periods in its 35 year
history.
From record sales performance and
major investment in UK manufacturing
capability, to sustainability leadership and awardwinning
performance at industry awards, Apex Pumps
has strengthened its position as one of the UK’s leading
centrifugal pump manufacturers – trusted by customers
where reliability and performance are critical.
Founded in 1988, Apex Pumps has grown from a small
industrial unit in South Gloucestershire into a modern,
highly respected manufacturer operating from expanded
facilities in Staple Hill, Bristol. The business designs and
manufactures bespoke centrifugal pump solutions, offers
rigorous testing and also a spare parts sales hub.
Record performance driven by investment and profile growth
Over the past year, Apex Pumps has reported its largest
ever order book, equivalent to six months of turnover, and
has also achieved significant operational improvements.
Apex has enhanced on-time delivery performance, and as
such has seen returning customers place larger, repeat
orders and lapsed clients return, also driven by increased
visibility and awareness of Apex’s capabilities.
A major contributor to this success has been a substantial
investment in marketing and brand awareness. Apex
Pumps has significantly raised its industry profile, delivering
strong engagement and tangible commercial results, a
strategy recently recognised with a Highly Commended
award for Marketing Campaign of the Year at the Made
in Britain Impact Awards.
Expanding UK manufacturing and reshoring capability
Apex Pumps has made a major investment in its Bristol
headquarters, expanding its premises to support future
growth and increasing demand while maintaining the
quality standards the company is known for.
The business has invested heavily in state-of-the-art
CNC machinery, including Mazak Quick Turn lathes and
HCN NEO horizontal machining centres, enabling greater
precision, efficiency and control across the manufacturing
process. Importantly, this has allowed Apex to bring more
machining in-house and reshore stainless steel machining
and casting operations back to the UK, reducing reliance
on overseas suppliers.
These investments have not only increased manufacturing
capacity but also strengthened Apex’s commitment to
British engineering and long-term supply chain resilience.
People are at the heart of Apex Pumps
While investment in technology has been key, Apex
Pumps is clear that its success is driven by its people.
The company continues to invest heavily in skills and
training, with apprenticeship training deeply rooted into
its culture. 36% of the current workforce began their careers
as apprentices, including four current apprentices, while four
former apprentices now work full-time within the business.
Apex Pumps is a long-standing supporter of engineering
education, helping to shape the next generation of
engineering talent; delivering BEMA apprenticeship schemes,
sponsoring STEM On Track at IKB Academy in Keynsham, and
supporting a range of local community initiatives. Members of
the Apex team, including Managing Director Andrew Simpson
and selection of Apex apprentices, also recently spoke at
a regional Future of Work event, highlighting the value of
vocational training and career progression in engineering.
One notable success story is Co-Director Sam Kemp, who
began his career as an IT apprentice and has progressed
into a senior leadership role – a clear example of the longterm
opportunities available within the business.
Driving sustainability in pump manufacturing
Sustainability remains a core focus for Apex Pumps, with
the business making measurable progress towards netzero
operations.
Over the past year, Apex has achieved a 40% reduction in CO 2
e
emissions, generated 175MWh of renewable energy from its
150kW solar array in Bristol, and reduced grid electricity usage by
37.8% through renewables and smarter energy management.
Further initiatives include an EV company fleet, a Cycle
to Work scheme, the creation of wildlife meadows, and
significant reductions in transport emissions through
reshoring manufacturing processes to the UK.
These efforts have been recognised nationally, with Apex
Pumps named Runner Up for Sustainability Initiative of the
Year at the Made in Britain Impact Awards and crowned
Winner of the Sustainable Contribution for a Better
World category at the BPMA Pump Industry Awards 2026.
Continued recognition at national industry awards
Apex Pumps achieved standout success at the BPMA
Pump Industry Awards 2026, securing national
recognition across multiple categories:
t Sustainable Contribution for a Better World – WINNER
t Manufacturer of the Year Finalist
t Rising Star Award Finalist – recognising apprentice
Jordan Hopkins
Winning one of the industry’s most competitive
sustainability awards, alongside finalist positions in key
categories, firmly positions Apex Pumps at the forefront
of UK pump manufacturing innovation, environmental
responsibility and talent development.
Looking ahead to another successful year of growth
Andrew Simpson, Managing Director at Apex Pumps,
said, “This past year has been transformational for
Apex Pumps. We've invested heavily in our people, our
facilities and our manufacturing capability, while staying
true to what matters most – engineering reliable, highperformance
pumps that our customers can depend on.”
“To be recognised as winners for sustainability, alongside
being named finalists in multiple categories, is a huge
achievement for our team and reflects the real impact of the
investments we've made across the business, and we see this
as just the beginning of the next phase of growth for Apex.”
To find out more about Apex Pumps and its innovative
pump solutions, proudly made in Britain, please see:
www.apexpumps.com
18 Sustainability Today is sponsored by Pemo Pumps – see them on page 12
Winter tipped to be biggest
yet for heat pumps
With British Summer Time already
becoming a distant memory
in 2024, experts are predicting this
could be the biggest winter yet for
the installation of heat pumps in
commercial premises.
Heat pumps have been at the forefront
of the government’s campaign for the
decarbonisation of UK homes,
including a £7,500 grant on
offer to homeowners in
England and Wales
as part of the Boiler
Upgrade Scheme.
But the need for
decarbonisation
in business
premises,
including the use
of heat pumps, has
generated less noise.
Now, however, as
increasing number of
businesses announce Net Zero plans
and climate road maps, scrutiny on
whether they turn those plans into
reality is growing – and with it an
interest in heat pumps.
Craig Moreton, Controls and Heat
Pump Systems Lead at Trane UK, a
company which manufactures, sells
and rents commercial heat pumps,
expects that trend to continue. He said,
“We are seeing increased interest from
businesses in heat pumps, especially
in the rental market which allows them
to try out heat pump systems without
dipping into their capital expenditure
budget. Our view is that rental could
be the key to encouraging businesses
to decarbonise the heating
of their premises and to
overcome the myths
and misconceptions
that have been
holding them back
until now.
“There’s no doubt
that heat pumps
have been adopted
more quickly in the
domestic market
and have earned more
headlines, too. But the
Net Zero argument is possibly
the biggest driver of all when it
comes to persuading businesses to
make the switch and that’s reflected in
an increase in enquiries. Our view is that
this winter could be a turning point in
the market.”
Contact
https://trane-hire.co.uk
Pumps & Valves
New HSX high-pressure
float valve
GEA AWP has developed a new highpressure
float valve for NH3 and CO 2
refrigeration and cooling processes.
The HSX high-pressure float valve is
designed for industrial applications
such as cold storage, transportation,
chemical processing, cement production
and the pharmaceutical industry.
The purely mechanical operation of the
HSX high-pressure float valves works
without electricity and therefore no
electrical voltage. This means that no
additional cabling and control systems
or regular maintenance cycles are
required. By operating with HSX highpressure
float valves, low condensation
temperatures can be utilised without
regard to the control system, especially
in cold seasons. For example, a 5°C
lower condensing temperature already
saves over 13% energy.
HSX high-pressure float valves have
a welded shut-off valve at the inlet
and outlet, as well as a vacuum nozzle
and an externally operated transport
lock with manual adjustment. In
addition, service valves for draining and
discharging non-condensable gases
can be installed via two G1/4" threaded
connections. The principle is as simple
as it is effective. If the cooling capacity
increases, the liquid level in the highpressure
float regulator rises and the
refrigerant is expanded via the purely
mechanical throttle opening.
As a result of this expansion (pressure
reduction) in the outlet, there is a
liquid-vapour mixture behind the
high-pressure float regulator, which is
discharged to the separator. A highpressure
collection tank is generally
not required. The continuous expansion
of the refrigerant prevents pressure
fluctuations and reduces the amount
of flash gas. This reduces the electrical
power consumption of the compressor.
www.gea.com
Sustainability Today is sponsored by Pemo Pumps – see them on page 12 19
Decarbonisation News
Family-owned multi-national brewer and pub operator Wells
& Co. joins expanding Zero Carbon Forum member roster
Wells & Co., the Bedfordshire based, family-owned
brewery, which operates 200 pubs across
England and France, is the latest member to join
Zero Carbon Forum, a not-for-profit organisation that
supports the brewing and hospitality industry on their
net zero journey.
Established in 1876 by founder Charles Wells, the fifthgeneration
business is now led by CEO, Peter Wells.
Ed Robinson, also a family member, is responsible for
heading up the brand’s evolution towards net zero as
the organisation’s first ever Sustainability Manager,
TFI Network+ completes
mission to advance
industrial decarbonisation
ransforming Foundation
TIndustries (TFI) Network+,
a delivery partner of UKRI’s
Transforming Foundation
Industries (TFI) Challenge,
has completed its work
in building a community
to support the transition
towards net zero within
the foundation industries
(including concrete,
ceramics, chemicals, glass,
paper and steel) after four years of activity.
Established in January 2021, TFI Network+
brought together representatives from
across foundation industries businesses
and academics from the University of
Leeds, the University of Manchester,
Swansea University and the University
of Sheffield. The Network sought to
investigate and offer possible solutions
to numerous challenges faced within the
foundation industries, including stringent
environmental legislation, overseas
competition, supply chain disruption,
volatile energy prices and an ageing
workforce.
TFI Network+ also served to ensure the
£66 million TFI challenge, delivered by
whilst working towards an MSc in Sustainability at
Cranfield University.
Innovate UK, was
carried out, underpinned
by a portfolio of the
best available UK
interdisciplinary science,
and informed by cross
sectoral industry
participation.
Over the last four years,
TFI Network+ carried out
its mission through the
following activities:
t Engagement and networking:
Designing and co-ordinating interactive
workshops attracting over 4,000
participants, exploring key foundation
industry topics
t Community leadership: Fostering
a community enabling academics
to identify as foundation industries
researchers
t Commissioning small grants:
Commissioning 20 early-stage research
projects and 20 published papers
t Supporting equality, diversity and
inclusion: Recruiting a diverse range of
members for the network
Please visit:
https://www.ukri.org/councils/innovate-uk
Wells & Co. has made substantial changes across its
estate to reduce emissions, reviewing and transforming
the key areas of waste and energy. Initiatives have
included food waste audits and partnerships with Refood,
producers of renewable energy from food waste, Too
Good to Go, the surplus food marketplace, and its own
‘Beepoint’ project at their Bedford HQ, Brewpoint, to
transform land around the brewery into a biodiverse
space featuring several beehives. Most recently the grain
from Brewpoint has been sent to anaerobic digestion.
Please visit:
https://zerocarbonforum.com
Levelling Up housing in
the UK means Levelling
Up UK Grid
ow, more than
Never, we’re seeing
increased network
demand driven by
the push towards
decarbonisation and
the policies being
shaped by the Labour
government, according
to VisNet, the leading real-time Low-Voltage
asset management solutions provider.
Dave A Roberts, Managing Director,
VisNet Modelling, stated, “With Deputy
Prime Minister and Secretary of State for
Levelling Up, Housing and Communities,
doubling down on Labour’s promise for
1.5 million homes in the next five years,
with an annual of target of 370,000 new
homes, it is imperative that we adapt to
new technologies to help ease the impact
of added demand on the network.”
Central to this is the new drive for
house building, which follows a string of
legislation to support the country’s net
zero obligations and facilitate the uptake
of low-carbon technologies (LCTs).
Roberts continued, “For example, since
June 2022, all new homes in the UK are
now required to have electric car charging
points under Part S of the Building
Regulations. Similarly, starting 2025, gas
boilers will be banned in all new build
properties as part of the Future Homes
Standard, which will favour the installation
of more sustainable heating solutions
such as heat pumps.”
Initiatives for existing housing are also
driving demand, with programmes such
as the Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS) and
the Energy Company Obligation (ECO4)
offering grants to eligible homeowners
to upgrade the energy performance of
their properties, which can include the
installation of appropriate renewable
technologies.
Please visit:
https://visnet.tech
The Saica Group accepts the government grant for
its decarbonisation PERTE
he Saica Group has decided to accept the 32.7-million-
grant given to the company by the Ministry of
Teuro
Industry and Tourism for its PERTE (Strategic Project for
Economic Recovery and Transformation), which aims to
decarbonise the recycled paper process at its plant in El
Burgo de Ebro (Zaragoza). The project was declared of
Regional Interest by the Government of Aragon and the
group now trusts that the speeding up of the corresponding
administrative permits will not compromise the very tight
deadlines established for the assumption of the aid.
The PERTE would involve a total investment of
101.5 million euros and the creation of 440 direct
and indirect jobs (40 direct, 200 indirect and 200
linked to the design, construction and execution of
the infrastructures). The investment includes the
development of a comprehensive decarbonisation
project, with 6 directly related primary projects, at
the Saica Group’s plant in El Burgo. Three paper
manufacturing machines operate there, producing 1.3
million tonnes per year of 100% recycled and recyclable
paper for packaging.
The objective of PERTE, which was presented in January
2024, is to drive decarbonisation by assisting companies
in the comprehensive transformation of their energy
strategy from fossil to renewable sources.
With all the actions planned at Burgo de Ebro, as a
result of this investment, will reduce fossil CO 2
emissions
in the complex by 53%, through improved efficiency and
reduced consumption of natural gas.
Please visit:
www.saica.com
20 Sustainability Today is sponsored by Pemo Pumps – see them on page 12
Utility Week Live Preview
Powering the
transition:
Inside Utility
Week Live 2026
Utility Week Live 2026 will be
held on 19th-20th May, at the
NEC, Birmingham
tility Week Live returns with a significantly
expanded programme that reflects the scale
Uand urgency of transformation across the UK’s
utilities sector. Positioned as Europe’s only pan-utility
exhibition, the event brings together more than
4,000 professionals from energy, water and network
industries for two days of intensive knowledge-sharing,
collaboration and technology showcase.
At the heart of the show is an extensive live content
programme spread across seven stages, designed to
tackle the most pressing challenges facing utilities
today. These theatres host over 175–250 expert speakers,
including senior executives, policymakers and innovators,
who will explore themes such as infrastructure delivery,
decarbonisation, digital transformation and customer
service evolution. The sessions are deliberately practical,
focusing on case studies and actionable insights that
attendees can apply immediately within their own
organisations, rather than high-level theory.
A major emphasis for 2026 is infrastructure and
delivery at scale. With the sector under pressure to
meet ambitious targets such as Clean Power 2030
and regulatory investment cycles like AMP8, dedicated
stages and discussions will examine how utilities can
accelerate project delivery while maintaining resilience
and affordability. Alongside this, digital rollout is another
central pillar, with sessions exploring AI adoption, datadriven
operations, smart networks and the integration
of new technologies into legacy systems.
Innovation is a defining theme running throughout the
show floor. A central innovation stage and dedicated
zones spotlight cutting-edge research, pilot projects and
emerging technologies from both established players and
startups. The Innovation Lounge, a new feature for 2026,
is designed as an interactive environment encouraging
open dialogue between utilities and innovators, with a
focus on scaling solutions, fostering partnerships and
embedding innovation into organisational culture. This
reflects a wider industry shift towards collaboration as a
means of accelerating progress on net zero and service
improvement goals.
The exhibition itself is a major draw, with more than 200
exhibitors showcasing technologies, services and solutions
across the utilities value chain. These range from
digital platforms and AI tools to physical infrastructure
components, asset management systems, water
treatment technologies and communications solutions.
Exhibitors include a mix of global technology providers,
specialist engineering firms and niche innovators,
offering attendees a comprehensive view of the current
market landscape and future direction of the sector.
The show floor is designed to be highly interactive,
with live demonstrations, product showcases and
hands-on experiences enabling visitors to engage
directly with new technologies. Innovation zones and
themed areas help visitors navigate the breadth of
content, while also highlighting key industry priorities
such as decarbonisation, resilience and customer
engagement. This practical, solutions-led approach
ensures the exhibition is not just about discovery
but also about implementation.
Networking is another core component of Utility
Week Live. By bringing together every major UK
utility alongside regulators, supply chain partners
and technology providers, the event creates a unique
environment for cross-sector collaboration. Attendees
have opportunities to connect informally on the
show floor as well as through structured sessions
and discussions, supporting partnership-building and
knowledge exchange at a time when collaboration is
increasingly seen as essential to delivering large-scale
infrastructure and sustainability goals.
The speaker line-up underscores the event’s strategic
importance, featuring senior leaders from organisations
such as National Grid, Anglian Water and Ofgem,
alongside innovators and industry disruptors. Their
participation ensures that discussions are grounded
in real-world challenges and policy contexts, from
regulatory reform to investment strategies and the
transition to low-carbon systems.
In addition to formal content, the event incorporates
immersive and experiential elements designed to
engage attendees and encourage participation.
Challenge-style programmes, interactive discussions
and live debates create a dynamic environment
where ideas can be tested and refined in real time.
These formats move beyond traditional conference
presentations, fostering a more collaborative and
solution-oriented atmosphere.
Ultimately, Utility Week Live 2026 positions itself as a
critical meeting point for the utilities sector at a time
of unprecedented change. By combining high-level
strategic insight with practical solutions and hands-on
innovation, the event offers a comprehensive overview
of how the industry is responding to the dual pressures
of decarbonisation and infrastructure renewal. With its
expanded stages, diverse exhibitor base and strong focus
on collaboration and innovation, it provides sustainability
professionals with a clear view of both the challenges
ahead and the tools available to address them.
Please visit:
https://www.utilityweeklive.co.uk
22 Sustainability Today is sponsored by Pemo Pumps – see them on page 12
Utility Week Live Preview
Protal Liquid Epoxy Coatings celebrate 40th
anniversary: 1986-2026
Winn & Coales (Denso) Ltd (WCD), along
with parent company Winn & Coales
International Ltd (WCI), leading manufacturer
and supplier of corrosion prevention,
waterproofing and sealing products, proudly
commemorates the 40th anniversary of its
Protal range of liquid epoxy coatings. The
trusted solution for pipeline protection, Protal
liquid coatings are high-build, fast-curing,
100% solids epoxies suitable for an array of
above and below ground corrosion prevention
applications.
At the time of the product line’s acquisition
in 1986, Protal was already a highly regarded
and well-established range of liquid coatings.
To further strengthen WCD’s portfolio, the WCI
group of companies acquired ‘Protal Coatings’
to complement their renowned range of
corrosion prevention tapes.
In response to EU and UK REACH regulations,
the eminent choice of Protal coating for
domestic customers is the specially formulated
Protal 7300 (UK). Offering excellent gouge,
abrasion and impact resistance, this moisture
tolerant pipeline coating was reformulated to
comply with both EU and UK laws regarding
the manufacture and supply of chemical
substances, in addition to offering
improved brushing characteristics
for the user during application.
The product is approved for use
by the UK’s multinational utilities
company and features in their
National Grid Coatings Register
in multiple product groups (9, 9c
and 10).
As of 2026, Protal’s popularity
continues to endure, establishing
itself as the go-to solution for
pipeline and critical infrastructure
protection due to its ease of use,
durability, and excellent substrate
adhesion and coverage.
WCI Group Chair, Chris Winn,
said, “As we commemorate forty
years of Protal liquid coatings, we celebrate
a journey defined by innovation and resilience.
This milestone underscores our unwavering
commitment to advancing corrosion prevention
technologies and providing solutions bearing
a name that our customers know and trust.
Looking ahead, our continued investment in
research and development ensures we can
respond to consumer demand and remain at the
forefront of manufacturing sustainable solutions
for an evolving commercial landscape.”
Winn & Coales (Denso) Ltd has been creating
bespoke and off-the-shelf solutions that
provide enduring protection against corrosion
for over 95 years. For further information
about Protal Liquid Coatings, or any of their
other products, please visit their website at:
www.denso.net
Sustainability Today is sponsored by Pemo Pumps – see them on page 12 23
Utility Week Live Preview
Confined space safety in the net zero
era: Rethinking risk in UK utilities
Draeger Safety UK Ltd will be exhibiting at Utility
Week Live on the 19th-20th May at the NEC
Birmingham, located on Stand: A4. This year there will
be a strong focus on confined space entry and safety
in modern utility environments.
Confined space entry in the age of net zero: Why
utilities can’t afford to treat it as a legacy risk
Across the UK utilities sector, confined space entry
has long been recognised as a high-risk activity. From
wastewater pumping stations and sludge digesters
to cable tunnels, valve chambers and underground
substations, the hazards are well understood. Or at
least, they were.
One of the biggest shifts across both water and energy
utilities is the sheer increase in asset intervention.
Ageing infrastructure, tighter regulatory performance
targets, and environmental compliance requirements
are driving more frequent maintenance, inspection, and
upgrade activities. In the water sector, this is particularly
evident in wastewater networks and treatment works,
where sewer performance, storm overflows, and sludge
handling are under intense scrutiny.
Why traditional approaches are falling short
Despite the changing risk landscape, many confined
space procedures remain rooted in legacy thinking:
t Pre-entry gas checks rather than continuous
monitoring
t Reliance on oxygen levels as a proxy
for other gases
t Static risk assessments that don’t
account for process variability
Investigations across multiple industries
have repeatedly highlighted a common
theme: workers enter spaces deemed
‘safe’ based on initial readings, only
for conditions to change rapidly due to
process upsets, ingress, or gas release.
In an environment where utilities are under pressure
to deliver faster, cheaper, and with fewer people onsite,
the margin for error is shrinking.
Simple tools like the ‘Confined Space Entry Wizard’
from the X-AM 8000 automatically calculates the
purge time for the tube length ensuring no mistakes
are made when taking clearance measurements
from the confined space. Those results can then be
transferred by Bluetooth to an ATEX mobile device in
field and emailed immediate to the permit office.
From compliance to continuous awareness
To address this, the industry needs to shift its mindset, from
compliance-based safety to continuous risk awareness.
This means:
t Moving from single-point measurements to realtime,
continuous gas monitoring
t Ensuring detection covers the full
spectrum of relevant gases, not just
traditional hazards
t Providing visibility not just to the entrant, but to
supervisors and control rooms
For contractors, this is about protecting workforce
and meeting zero-incident KPIs.
For asset owners, it’s about reducing operational risk
and regulatory exposure.
For consultants and designers, it’s about embedding
safety into asset design from the outset.
Here are our expert tips on making the small spaces
safe spaces.
Visit us at Stand: A4 for more information on
protecting your staff during confined space
operations. If you can’t make the event but
what to find out more, please contact:
T +44 (0)1670 352891
marketing.uk@draeger.com
https://www.draeger.com/en_uk/home
Air Quality
Ensuring compliance amid
the rapid roll-out of EV
Charge points
The growing sales of
electric vehicles
(EVs) continues
apace, as
governments
around the world
set ambitious
targets for EV
adoption in
line with wider
emissions reduction
goals. However, can
a rapid roll-out of EV
charge points (EVCPs) lead
to a lack of safety?
Strategic Technical Director at Bureau
Veritas, Michael Kenyon MIET, looks
at recent research on EVCP safety
and asserts that more must be done
to ensure this high current using
equipment remains
fit for use.
Although thought to be a modern
phenomenon, electric vehicles share
a common history with fuel cars.
The first electric wheeled vehicles
were developed in the 19th century,
alongside the familiar
gas-powered internal
combustion engine
(ICE).
However, while the
last century has
been dominated
by petrol and
diesel cars, there is
now a global shift to
EVs, as governments
around the world cite
transport as a key area for
decarbonisation. The UK Government
specifically has targeted 2035 for the
ban on the sale of new petrol and
diesel cars and we’ve seen an almost
400% growth in EVs registered in
the UK over the past 4 years. This
will show no sign of abating as
economies of scale will be seen with
higher production volumes and lower
battery costs together putting EVs at
a competitive price compared to ICEs
in the next decade.
Contact
www.bureauveritas.com
Schneider Electric to
invest £42 million in new
manufacturing site
Schneider Electric, the leader in
the digital transformation of
energy management and automation,
is investing £42 million in a new
manufacturing facility in Scarborough,
North Yorkshire.
More than 200 jobs will be created to
meet the increased demand for electrical
equipment to drive the UK's move to
cleaner energy including renewable
energy sources, electric vehicles, and
intelligent, energy-efficient buildings.
The site, which is almost triple the
size of Schneider Electric's existing
Scarborough facility, is a blueprint for
sustainable design and operations
in the manufacturing industry. It is
poised to become a net-zero plant and
will use modern technology to reduce
energy waste and maximise the use
of renewable energy.
t 30% of the facility's energy will
be produced by a state-of-the art
solar energy system, with solar
panels covering 50% of the roof, to
ensure the building harnesses solar
energy efficiently.
t Any energy consumed on site from
the national grid will be ‘renewable
certified.’
t An intelligent Building Management
System, based on Schneider
Electric's EcoStruxure platform, will
ensure energy-efficient operations
including light sensors, automated
heating and cooling.
t It will feature one of the first fully
electric paint lines in Europe to
support decarbonised operations.
t It is targeting a BREEAM 'Excellent'
rating, setting it apart in terms of
sustainable construction standards.
Contact
www.se.com
24 Sustainability Today is sponsored by Pemo Pumps – see them on page 12
Energy & Power
British crafted incinerators
Pump systems that deliver when it counts
At Salvtech, we supply more than
just pumps – we provide dependable
solutions. Our range of centrifugal,
positive displacement, and slurry pumps
is designed to perform in the most
demanding industrial settings, from
pulp and wastewater to food production
and energy recovery.
Each system is built for efficiency,
longevity, and reliability, supported by
expert advice and swift access to parts
and servicing.
Engineered for challenging applications
Whether you’re dealing with fibrous
pulp, viscous sludge or hygienic food
products, our pumps are tailored to
your process. If you require corrosion
resistance, CIP compatibility, or
abrasion-resistant materials, we’ll
specify the right solution.
Fraunhofer IWU presents ESiP
Analyzer: How companies can
properly plan energy storage
systems
he Chemnitz Research
TInstitute presents
the ESiP Analyzer – an
analysis tool for energy
storage applications in
production (ESiP). The
tool enables technical
and economic evaluation
of potential uses for
energy storage systems
in factories. Its goal is to
identify energy storage
opportunities with minimal
effort and to simplify the
design and integration
of storage solutions. The
ESiP Analyzer focuses on
two key areas: reducing
power peaks at both the
machine and factory levels, and enabling
intermediate storage of renewable energy.
Research focus on energy storage in
production: Challenges and opportunities
The manufacturing industry faces the
challenge of optimising energy consumption
while driving the integration of renewable
energy sources. Frequent acceleration and
braking operations in production machines
cause high, short-term power peaks, which
require mighty electrical infrastructure and
lead to losses in partial load conditions.
Energy storage systems offer tremendous
potential here: they enable demandoptimised
use of renewable energy directly
at the production site and create valuable
temporal decoupling between energy
generation and consumption. However,
there has been a lack of intuitive and
comprehensive tools to assist planners in
designing and sizing such complex systems.
Please visit:
www.fraunhofer.de
Precision selection –
No guesswork
Choosing the wrong pump
can be costly. We help
you make the correct
choice first time, offering
guidance on impellers,
seal types, NPSH, BEP,
and system compatibility
– ensuring your
operation runs smoothly
from the outset.
Spares, servicing & refurbishment
Avoid unnecessary downtime with rapid
access to over 100,000 components via
our Lotzer & Mühlenbruch partnership.
We offer workshop and on-site
servicing, including vibration analysis,
crack detection, and precision balancing.
Our refurbishment service extends
pump life cost-effectively. For urgent
cases, our exchange programme keeps
you operational while your unit is
rebuilt.
Let us help you get the right pump,
first time.
Contact
T 01244 638900
info@salvtech.com
https://salvtech.com
Addfield Projects are at the
forefront of developing innovative
incineration solutions for waste that
cannot be recycled or easily disposed
of – including medical, chemical,
agricultural, and mining waste.
As a recognised global leader in the
design, manufacture, and installation
of complex thermal treatment and
waste-to-energy facilities, Addfield
Projects is proud to represent British
engineering and manufacturing from
its base in Staffordshire. Over the
years, the company has successfully
delivered a broad range of bespoke
installations worldwide.
Specialising exclusively in largescale
and complex waste disposal,
Addfield Projects designs advanced
incineration systems tailored to
different waste types and volumes.
Many of these facilities incorporate
state-of-the-art filtration technology
and options to convert heat into
clean energy such as hot water
and electricity.
Osprey Charging Network
launches new ten-charger hub at
Capital Shopping Park in Cardiff
sprey Charging, the UK’s leading and
Ofastest-growing EV rapid-charging
network, has boosted access to public
charging in Wales with ten new EV
chargers installed at Capital Shopping
Park in Cardiff, supporting local residents,
businesses and visitors with reliable EV
infrastructure.
The Cardiff shopping park now offers
a range of charging options for electric
vehicle (EV) owners. Eight 300kW DC
chargers can add up to 100 miles of
range in just 15-20 minutes, depending on
the vehicle and its battery. Additionally,
there are two AC chargers available for
those planning a longer stay. Osprey’s
rapid charge points are compatible with
every EV on the market today. Situated
at Capital Shopping Park in Cardiff, the
chargers are an ideal place to charge
an EV whilst doing some shopping or
grabbing a bite to eat at one of the
on-site restaurants.
Easy to use and designed with simple
payment for drivers, Osprey Chargers
accept contactless bank cards, Apple/
Google Pay, the Osprey App, and RFID
card payments as well as payments
through all major third-party payment
methods including fleet cards.
Furthermore, Osprey’s in-house software,
Osprey Iris, enables market-leading
With strong foundations and a truly
global reach, Addfield Projects works
through an international network
of highly skilled engineers to install,
commission, and maintain facilities
across more than 150 countries.
The team will be on hand at the Expo
to discuss your next project and its
product range that includes Clinical
Waste Incinerators, Hazardous Waste
Incinerators, High Capacity Animal
Waste Incinerators, Incineration
Solutions for Mining Waste
Disposal, Municipal Waste Disposal
Incinerators, and much more.
For more information,
please see below:
T 01543 571280
sales@addfield.com
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levels of reliability and innovation in
EV roaming. All of this has contributed
to Osprey’s ranking by Zap-Map as a
‘Driver Recommended Network’ for the
fourth consecutive year, as well as being
named ‘Best EV Charging Network’ at the
Transport and Energy Awards.
More information on Osprey can be
found at: www.ospreycharging.co.uk
26 Sustainability Today is sponsored by Pemo Pumps – see them on page 12
Recommended Supplier Directory
Euroby Limited is a leading UK environmental
waste equipment provider and well-regarded
processing expert based in Worthing, Sussex
with a factory/workshops in the Midlands.
Although originally formed in 1996 to provide
consultancy services to the power industry,
the level of the group’s technical expertise led
them to swiftly diversify into the water sector.
Adveco Ltd. is the trusted specialist provider
of bespoke, low carbon hot water and heating
systems to the building services industry.
We provide a wide range of options for gas
and electric water heating, incorporating the
latest gas water heaters and boilers, thermal
storage, heat pumps, solar thermal and heat
recovery technologies.
Börger products are known for their high quality.
Our core product is the rotary lobe pump.
Whether stationary, mobile or submerged
use – each pump is individually designed and
manufactured. Börger GmbH is a family-owned
enterprise from the German Münsterland with
subsidiaries all over the world. We are a strong
team of young and experienced people.
Cubic Apple is a UK-based company specialising in
energy assessment services for buildings, including
Commercial EPCs, TM44 Air Conditioning Inspections,
and Display Energy Certificates (DECs) for public
buildings, aiming to provide cost-effective, quality
service via a national network of assessors. They
aim to provide an unbeatable quality of service &
cost, through our national network of assessors,
surveyors, consultants and engineers.
John Hanlon & Co Ltd. is a distinguished leader in
the heavy machinery industry, specialising in the
hire of loaders and handlers, as well as the sales of
high-performance Komptech machines. With a legacy
of excellence and a commitment to providing robust
and efficient equipment solutions, John Hanlon &
Co Ltd. has established itself as a trusted partner
for businesses across various sectors including
construction, waste management, and recycling.
Numac’s product range now includes waste
compactors – both static and portable units – as
well as a wide range of containers and skips. After
four decades of business it’s clear that if you are
in the recycling business, you’ve probably used
a Numac waste container. As a family business,
they understand the need to deliver the best value
for money to our customers whilst ensuring their
operational practices are of the highest quality.
CSO Group is a privately owned limited company
providing pollution solutions in the fields of:
Energy from Waste, Waste Water Treatment,
Municipal Solids Waste and General Industrials.
CSO now provides pollution solutions in the
Energy from Waste (EfW), Municipal Solids Waste
(MSW), Waste Water Treatment (WWT) and
General Industrial sectors.
Leachate Solutions is a leader in closed
landfill engineering and leachate treatment
plants. Providing solutions for effluent treatment,
process engineering and monitoring services.
Founded on a commitment to sustainability,
environmental protection and innovation, our
company brings together a team of experts
dedicated to providing services and engineering
solutions for our client’s needs.
EMT resolves issues with meters and aM&T
systems that have been badly fitted and are
inappropriate or wrongly installed. Energy
Metering Technology Ltd (EMT) was formed in
1993 by Colin Boughton-Smith to provide ‘turnkey’
solutions for energy and water management
by the use of emerging technology advances
in metering and communication systems.
At Water Process Solutions, they provide
some of the most trusted brands and
products in the chemical metering and
feed industry – many of which have roots
that date back over 30 years. They have
taken those reliable and tested designs and
improved them to keep pace with today’s
materials and control options.
Sustainability Today is sponsored by Pemo Pumps – see them on page 12 27