Yorkshire-based Clipper 玩嘉电竞 Group, the leading provider of retail and high-value logistics, has become the first multi-regional member of the ECO Stars Fleet Recognition Scheme.
Originally launched in South Yorkshire in January 2009, the scheme launched by Care4Air campaign, as part of a drive to improve the quality of air across the region, recognises fleet operators who are using lower polluting vehicles and effective fuel management. The scheme is now being rolled out in Devon where it has received funding to run as part of a 12-month pilot scheme starting in January 2011.
Clipper 玩嘉电竞 Group was the first organisation to join the South Yorkshire scheme early in 2009, the initial four star rating was quickly improved to the five star level – the first member to achieve this level. Clipper has played an integral role in assisting with the initial launch of the scheme and is now the first multi-regional member as it has recently been awarded a four star operational rating for the Mid-Devon scheme. Clipper will work in partnership with the councils to motivate other businesses across the region to boost fuel efficiency, reduce fuel consumption and lower carbon emissions.
Clipper has a strong track record of green operations, and has developed groundbreaking Consolidation Centre solutions for Meadowhalll Shopping Centre in Sheffield and The Crown Estate which serves a large proportion of London’s Regent St, in response to growing consumer demand for greater volumes of product. Clipper’s solutions significantly streamlined the delivery process and reduced the retailers’ carbon footprints thanks to the shared-user service.
The ECO Stars Fleet Recognition scheme is available to fleets including LGVs, buses and coaches that have implemented lower polluting vehicles and that are working with fuel management programmes and other best practice measures that will improve local air quality. The assessment covers individual vehicles as well as organisations’ overall road transport operation, and participants benefit from bespoke action plans to help them progress to the next rating.
Clipper’s managing director, Tony Mannix, commented: “Clipper is delighted to become the first multi-regional member of the scheme, which has already proved very successful in South Yorkshire where it was originally launched. Mid-Devon is a hub for the strategic road network and there are quite a few operators based in and around its towns, so we are looking forward to many more organisations joining us.
“The ECO Stars initiative is a great opportunity for fleets to review their environmental efficiency and improve their green credentials as well as boosting their business performance. By stipulating Euro 5 engines in all of our new vehicles, and improving our fuel management systems, we expect to see a reduction in operational costs, as well as playing our part in benefiting the region’s air quality. We look forward to achieving a five star rating in the coming months.”
