Driving Sustainability: Volvo Trucks’ Green Future

Volvo article front cover

Driving Sustainability: Volvo Trucks’ Green Future

Volvo Trucks is leading the way in sustainable transport, setting ambitious targets to achieve net-zero emissions by 2040. Through a mix of innovative technologies and eco-friendly practices, Volvo is transforming global logistics for a greener future. Lars Mårtensson, Director of Environment and Innovation at Volvo Trucks, discusses how the company’s sustainability efforts are shaping the future of transportation.

Electrifying Urban Transport

Volvo Trucks’ battery-electric vehicles (EVs) are already revolutionizing urban logistics in cities like Stockholm and Amsterdam. These electric trucks produce zero emissions and help reduce noise pollution, providing an ideal solution for cleaner, more sustainable urban transport. Volvo is also working to expand charging infrastructure in collaboration with energy providers and local governments to ensure smooth adoption.

Hydrogen: The Future of Long-Haul Transport

While electric trucks excel in urban settings, Volvo Trucks is turning to hydrogen-powered vehicles for long-haul transport. Hydrogen offers greater range and faster refuelling times, making it ideal for heavy-duty and long-distance transport. Volvo is developing fuel cell and hydrogen combustion technologies, with plans to launch these trucks by the end of the decade.

Green Steel: Sustainable Manufacturing

In a bid to reduce its carbon footprint, Volvo Trucks is integrating green steel into its production process. This sustainable material, produced using renewable energy, is now part of the company’s truck frames, setting a new standard for green manufacturing in the automotive sector.

Biogas: Turning Waste into Energy

Volvo Trucks is also leveraging biogas-powered trucks, which convert organic waste into energy. This alternative fuel can reduce carbon emissions by up to 300%, helping Volvo lead the way in the circular economy. Biogas is especially effective in regions rich in agricultural byproducts, aligning with Volvo’s commitment to sustainable and clean energy solutions.

Circular Economy: Extending the Lifecycle

Volvo Trucks is adopting circular economy principles by designing products for longevity and reuse. Used truck batteries are repurposed for energy storage systems, reducing the need for virgin materials and minimizing waste. This approach helps Volvo reduce its environmental impact and make the most of existing resources.

A Global Commitment to Sustainability

With manufacturing plants in Sweden and Belgium, Volvo Trucks is optimizing its production processes by using renewable energy sources. The company is also constructing a battery production facility in Sweden to further enhance its sustainability credentials. Volvo adapts its approach to meet regional needs, such as introducing biogas-powered trucks in the UK to meet local demands.

Collaboration for a Greener Industry

Volvo Trucks understands that achieving net-zero emissions requires collaboration. By working with suppliers, governments, and energy providers, Volvo is building a network of partnerships that drive innovation and sustainable solutions in transport.

For more details on Volvo Trucks' commitment to sustainability and the future of green transport, read the full article at Green Sustainability Magazine.

Building a Greener Tomorrow: Eurowind’s Commitment to Sustainable Energy

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Eurowind Energy has quickly become a key player in the renewable energy sector, expanding its footprint across Europe. Pedro Pereira, Managing Director for Southern Europe, shared insights into the company’s ongoing initiatives, challenges, and its strategic approach to sustainability.

Expanding Horizons in Southern Europe

When Pedro Pereira joined Eurowind, his mission was clear: to grow the company’s presence in Southern Europe. “We were predominantly focused on Northern Europe,” Pereira explained. “Expanding into Portugal, Spain, and Italy ensured greater geographic resilience.” Portugal has become a key hub for the company, with Eurowind making significant strides in green hydrogen projects, seen as the future of clean energy.

Navigating the Green Hydrogen Challenge

Despite its promise, green hydrogen faces hurdles in market adoption. Pereira noted, “It’s a classic chicken-and-egg scenario—no supply because there’s no demand, and no demand because there’s no supply.” He pointed out that while the cost of green hydrogen is currently high, policy support and collaboration across the industry are essential for bridging this gap and enabling its widespread use.

Leveraging Local Expertise

Eurowind’s success in Southern Europe can be attributed to its approach of partnering with local contractors. Pereira emphasized the importance of “prioritising local knowledge for civil works and crane operations,” which helps ensure efficiency and strengthens community ties. This localised approach is critical for navigating the region’s regulatory frameworks.

Innovations Beyond Wind and Solar

While wind and solar are central to Eurowind’s portfolio, the company is increasingly diversifying its energy offerings. Pereira highlighted their expansion into biogas, which provides a sustainable alternative to fossil fuels by converting organic waste into renewable energy. Additionally, the company is exploring advanced chemical processes for energy storage, such as ammonia and e-methanol, which could help address intermittency issues in renewable energy.

A Vision for 2030

Aligned with the EU’s climate goals, Eurowind’s long-term strategy focuses on expanding its renewable energy capacity by 2030. “Our goal is to become a power major, leveraging diverse energy sources to drive the transition to a low-carbon future,” Pereira said. To support this, the company is incorporating digital tools like AI and IoT to optimise energy efficiency and monitor operations in real time.

The Path Forward

Pereira remains optimistic about the future of renewable energy. “Renewables were once more expensive than traditional energy sources. Today, they are the cheapest,” he observed. As Eurowind continues its journey, the company is well-positioned to lead the energy transition in Southern Europe and beyond. By embracing innovation and fostering local partnerships, Eurowind is shaping the future of sustainable energy.

To read the full article, visit Green Sustainability Magazine.

ACME Engineering Products: Innovating Tradition for a Sustainable Future

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ACME Engineering Products: Innovating Tradition for a Sustainable Future

ACME Engineering Products has been a cornerstone of industrial innovation for decades. Led by CEO Robert Presser, this family-run company has successfully navigated the changing landscape of the engineering industry. Starting as an importer of European plumbing equipment, ACME has evolved into a global leader in HVAC controls, packaged boilers, and, most notably, commercial gas detection systems. Through a unique blend of legacy and forward-thinking innovation, ACME continues to shape the future of sustainable technology.

The Green Revolution and ACME’s Role in Decarbonization

A major turning point for ACME has been the rise of electrode boiler technology. Once seen as a niche industrial product, electrode boilers are now central to global decarbonization efforts. With increasing pressure for industries to reduce their carbon footprints, electric boilers have become the go-to solution for clean energy. As Presser explains, “Electric boilers, whether low voltage or high voltage, have transformed from industrial equipment to environmental solutions. Now, everyone wants clean emissions—no more smoke from the stacks.”

The demand for electric-powered boilers soared, especially in China, where aggressive decarbonization policies prompted a shift towards sustainable solutions. “China’s demand for electric-powered boilers gave us a significant boost,” Presser reflects. ACME’s successful entry into the Chinese market laid the foundation for the company’s expansion into Europe, North America, South America, and the Middle East.

Decarbonizing Energy Giants

Even in oil-rich regions like the Middle East, the shift towards sustainability is evident. At the ADIPEC show in Abu Dhabi, Presser observed a growing focus on decarbonization, with oil and gas giants like ADNOC exploring the incorporation of renewable energy. This shift presents new opportunities for ACME, as the company continues to collaborate with stakeholders across the globe to advance sustainable energy solutions.

Strategic Partnerships: ACME’s Key to Global Reach

ACME's success is built on its strategic partnerships, which allow the company to scale operations while staying agile in a competitive market. “The first-generation entrepreneur wants to do everything, but that’s how you stay small,” says Presser. Instead, ACME has cultivated relationships with global partners, ensuring the ability to meet local market needs efficiently.

The company has formed key alliances in Finland, Spain, Portugal, the U.S., and South America. In Finland, ACME partners with CTI, a systems integrator, and collaborates with ARSOPI in Portugal to deliver complete boiler plant systems. Presser’s approach to manufacturing also includes a planned facility in the UAE by 2025, which will further diversify ACME’s global supply chain and mitigate geopolitical risks.

Educating the Market on Sustainable Solutions

A significant part of ACME’s mission involves educating engineers and specifiers about the capabilities of electrode boilers. “Many professionals tasked with decarbonization projects are unfamiliar with our technology,” Presser notes. The company has dedicated significant time and resources to guiding consulting engineers through the process, ensuring that stakeholders are equipped with the technical expertise and strategic insights needed to implement these solutions effectively.

Overcoming Challenges and Seizing Opportunities

While ACME’s journey has been filled with success, it has also faced its share of challenges. The 2008 financial crisis, for example, forced the company to diversify and shift its focus away from a U.S.-centric model. Today, ACME has built sustainable relationships with global partners, allowing it to weather economic downturns and geopolitical risks. As Presser advises, “You have to be agile. When disruptions occur, whether it's tariffs or supply chain issues, you need a plan B—and sometimes even a plan C.”

A Vision for the Future

Looking ahead, ACME remains committed to innovation. The company continuously refines its electrode boiler technology to meet the evolving demands of decarbonization. By combining a rich heritage with cutting-edge solutions, ACME Engineering Products continues to create partnerships that benefit both its clients and the environment. As Robert Presser concludes, “We’re not just offering products; we’re creating solutions and building partnerships that allow everyone to win.”

For more details on ACME Engineering Products’ innovation and sustainable solutions, read the full article at Green Sustainability Magazine.

Great Central Plastics: Leading the Charge in Sustainable UK Manufacturing

In today’s world, where sustainability is a key focus for businesses and consumers alike, Great Central Plastics stands out as a leader in sustainable manufacturing. This UK-based, family-owned company has redefined how plastics can be produced responsibly, offering sustainable solutions to industries ranging from automotive to beverages. With a focus on innovation, the company is proving that environmental responsibility and cutting-edge technology can go hand in hand.

From Vision to Industry Leadership

Great Central Plastics began with a bold vision and the expertise of its founders, including a skilled toolmaker. This strong technical foundation has allowed the company to excel in injection moulding, supplying both moulds and finished products with exceptional precision. Over time, it has transformed into a leader in sustainable practices under the leadership of Kiron Phillips, a business development executive passionate about sustainability.

“We aim to be the go-to sustainable UK moulder,” says Phillips, emphasizing the company’s commitment to not only manufacturing excellence but also collaboration across the supply chain to drive sustainable change.

Innovation in Sustainable Materials

A hallmark of Great Central Plastics’ success is its pioneering work with biodegradable materials and alternative plastics. A notable example is their partnership with Jägermeister, which led to the creation of the first branded “Jägerbomber” shot vessels made from biodegradable plastic. This material is designed to break down quickly in landfills or oceans, making it an environmentally friendly alternative to traditional plastics.

“Our initial scepticism about the claims of these materials was dispelled when they stood up to rigorous testing and proved their efficacy,” Phillips explains.

The company also collaborated with Campari Group to create premium drinkware using Limex, a limestone-based material made from cement industry waste. By combining biodegradable elements with functional materials, Great Central Plastics is pushing the boundaries of sustainable product design.

Collaboration at the Core of Sustainability

Great Central Plastics thrives on collaboration, working with suppliers, clients, and even competitors to advance sustainability. Its regrind facility is a prime example of how the company integrates eco-friendly practices into its operations. By recycling waste materials like sprues into reusable plastic, the company ensures a near-closed-loop production process, reducing waste and enhancing its sustainability credentials.

“The more we collaborate, the better it is for everyone in the industry,” Phillips says. “We are all in this together, and it’s about sharing expertise to make sustainable innovations a reality.”

Changing the Public Perception of Plastics

Historically, plastics have been viewed as detrimental to the environment, but Great Central Plastics is helping to shift this narrative. The company focuses on the longevity and reusability of its products, showcasing how bioplastics and other sustainable alternatives can provide long-lasting, high-performance solutions without harming the environment.

Great Central Plastics has embraced materials such as recycled chewing gum and ghost fishing gear, demonstrating how waste can be turned into valuable products. This approach not only reduces landfill waste but also offers eco-conscious consumers a range of practical, sustainable options.

Expanding into New Industries

While Great Central Plastics has long had a strong presence in the automotive and beverage industries, its expertise in sustainable materials is now opening doors to new sectors like electronics and medical devices. The limestone-based material, initially used for drinkware, is being explored for use in car interiors, offering a premium look with strong environmental credentials.

“There’s a lot of crossover between industries when sustainability is a driving force,” Phillips notes, highlighting the adaptability of their innovations.

A Solar-Powered Future

In addition to its sustainable material practices, Great Central Plastics is committed to reducing its carbon footprint. The company’s factory is powered by solar energy, providing 30% of its electricity needs. This long-term commitment to renewable energy is just one of the ways the company strives to lead by example in the manufacturing industry.

The Road Ahead: Challenges and Opportunities

Despite the company’s significant achievements, it acknowledges that challenges remain in driving sustainability within the manufacturing sector. High costs for testing and certification, especially for automotive applications, can pose a barrier for smaller companies. However, Phillips remains hopeful about the future: “Sustainability is an area where opportunities continue to grow. We are determined to stay ahead of the curve and continue our work in this space.”

Looking to the Future

As Great Central Plastics continues to innovate, its future is bright. The company is investing in new technologies, including a CNC machine, which will expand its toolmaking capabilities. It also plans to host open days to showcase its cutting-edge work and share its sustainability journey with clients and the public.

Great Central Plastics is setting the standard for how manufacturers can lead with purpose, combining technological expertise with a commitment to the environment. By staying ahead of trends and embracing sustainable solutions, the company is not only meeting today’s demands but also helping shape a greener future for generations to come.

For more on Great Central Plastics’ journey and their impact on sustainable manufacturing, check out the full feature in our latest issue here.

Canongate Books: Pioneering Sustainability in Publishing

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Canongate Books, a renowned independent publisher in the UK, has become a trailblazer in sustainability within the publishing industry. Under the leadership of Caroline Gorham, the company made history as the first trade publisher in the UK to earn B Corporation (B Corp) certification. This certification underscores Canongate's unwavering commitment to environmental and social responsibility, setting a new standard for the publishing sector.

A Commitment to Sustainable Publishing

Caroline Gorham, Production Director at Canongate, highlights that achieving B Corp certification was not just about meeting industry standards—it was about embedding sustainability into every part of the company’s operations. This rigorous certification process, which took more than two years to complete, required changes across five key areas: governance, workers, community, environment, and customers. By formalising their commitment to sustainability, Canongate is leading the charge for positive change in publishing.

Building a Sustainable Supply Chain

Canongate’s commitment to sustainability extends to its entire supply chain. The company works closely with sustainable printers and suppliers who share its eco-conscious values. For instance, Canongate partners with CPI Print, who are revolutionising the printing process with innovations like carbon calculators and chemical-free printing. The company also prioritises local sourcing, reducing the carbon footprint of transporting materials.

In response to new EU regulations, Canongate is working to ensure that all its products meet stringent environmental standards, from anti-deforestation regulations to the General Product Safety Regulation (GPSR), further strengthening its commitment to sustainable practices.

Making a Lasting Impact

Beyond its operational changes, Canongate Books is actively involved in community engagement. They support local charities like Social Bite, which empowers homeless individuals, and donate books to organisations like the Scottish Book Trust. This community engagement is an essential part of their sustainability strategy, fostering a company-wide culture of responsibility and accountability.

The publisher’s sustainability efforts also include a focus on recyclability. By prioritising recyclable materials and collaborating with other industry leaders, Canongate is making strides toward reducing waste in the publishing process.

Looking to the Future

As Canongate continues to innovate and lead in sustainability, the company is also investing in the future. From adapting to EU digital standards for e-books and audiobooks to exploring ways to make their products more sustainable, Canongate is setting an example of how an industry can evolve in an environmentally responsible way.

For more details on Canongate Books’ journey to sustainability, and how they are transforming the publishing industry, read the full feature in our latest magazine.