Alan P.’s Post

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Chief Executive Officer at Integrated Skills Ltd

Here at ISL we have seen an uptick in route optimisation consultancy projects as a result of the Simpler Recycling initiative, specifically, how to manage new and/or expanded #foodwaste collection with current fleets. In Germany one of our route optimisation clients is trialing hydrogen RCVs. Hydrogen vehicles have the potential to be effective in the collection of food waste, especially when compared to electric #RCVs, but their effectiveness depends on several factors. Range and Payload Capacity: Hydrogen vehicles need to have sufficient range and payload capacity to collect food waste from various locations without needing frequent refueling or emptying. Infrastructure: The availability of #hydrogen refueling stations is crucial for the effectiveness of hydrogen vehicles. Without a well-developed refueling infrastructure, hydrogen vehicles may face challenges in completing their collection routes. For local authorities, allocating space within their depots is key. Cost: The cost of hydrogen vehicles and hydrogen fuel compared to traditional diesel vehicles as well as electric ones can impact their effectiveness in food waste collection. If the cost of owning and operating hydrogen vehicles is significantly higher, it may affect their widespread adoption in waste management fleets. Many of the current hydrogen RCVs being trialed on the continent are funded through EU R&D schemes so there is no true cost figures upon which to make a judgement. One thing to bear in mind though is to ensure the true, end-to-end costs are considered when comparing electric with hydrogen as well as the impact on the environment, ie, the fuel energy creation has to be considered. Environmental Benefits: One of the main advantages of hydrogen vehicles is their potential to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, especially if the hydrogen is produced from renewable sources. If the goal of food waste collection is to minimize environmental impact, using hydrogen vehicles can align with that objective. Hydrogen vehicles can be effective in the collection of food waste, especially when paired with a well-developed infrastructure and when considering their environmental benefits. However, their effectiveness may vary depending on specific circumstances and factors such as range, payload capacity, infrastructure, and cost. The trials of hydrogen RCVs in the UK and on the continent are on-going and only time will tell if they are truly cost effective. Unfortunately, we expect that analysis to be available too late for the onset of England wide food waste collection services.

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