
Pioneering Change in Construction Sustainability
Sustainability is no longer a choice—it is an imperative for industries worldwide, and construction is no exception. Glencar, a UK-based construction leader recognised for its work in logistics, life sciences, and commercial sectors, has taken a bold step toward its ambitious ESG goals. Announcing its transition to Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil (HVO) fuel for all active construction sites, Glencar aims to slash its direct carbon dioxide emissions by up to 90%. This initiative underscores the company’s commitment to achieving net-zero Scope 1 emissions by 2025.
HVO: A Cleaner Alternative for Immediate Impact
Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil, or HVO, is a low-carbon biofuel derived from waste vegetable oils and animal fats. This cleaner fuel is compatible with diesel engines, making it a practical solution for industries looking to decarbonize without extensive infrastructural changes. HVO’s benefits go beyond carbon reductions: it delivers up to 80% reductions in other pollutants, such as particulate matter, which directly impact air quality.
For Glencar, the switch to HVO represents a transformative shift. The company has historically emitted over 720 tonnes of CO2 annually from diesel consumption. By transitioning to HVO, Glencar expects to significantly curtail its environmental impact while aligning its operations with global sustainability standards.
Leading the Logistics Sector Toward Greener Practices
One of the most compelling aspects of Glencar’s transition is its industry-leading status in the logistics and industrial construction sector. This move positions the company as a trailblazer in integrating sustainable practices into construction operations—a step other players in the industry are likely to follow. The use of HVO across site setups, welfare facilities, and on-site power generation demonstrates the practicality of deploying clean energy solutions at scale.
A Commitment Backed by Rigorous Standards
What sets Glencar apart is its dedication to ensuring the sustainability of its solutions. The company sources its HVO fuel through certified supply chains compliant with the International Sustainability and Carbon Certification (ISCC) and the UK’s Renewable Fuels Assurance Scheme (RFAS). These certifications guarantee that the feedstocks used to produce HVO are 100% renewable and meet the stringent requirements of the Renewable Energy Directive 2.
Moreover, the switch to HVO offers Glencar greater accuracy in emissions tracking and reporting. This data-driven approach enhances transparency and ensures that the company can measure its progress toward its environmental, social, and governance (ESG) goals effectively.
The Bigger Picture: Tackling Scope 1, 2, and 3 Emissions
Glencar’s HVO transition is part of a broader strategy to address all three scopes of carbon emissions. While Scope 1 emissions—those directly resulting from on-site fuel use—are the initial focus, the company has also set targets for reducing Scope 2 (indirect emissions from purchased energy) and Scope 3 (emissions from its value chain). With targets set for 2045, Glencar recognizes the importance of continuous innovation and technological advancement in achieving comprehensive decarbonization.
Glencar’s ESG Vision: A Model for Industry Transformation
James Scott, Glencar’s Director of ESG, highlights the importance of this transition: “Our move to HVO represents a strategic leap forward in reducing carbon emissions across our construction sites. This is not just about meeting targets—it’s about leading by example and ensuring we remain at the forefront of sustainable innovation.”
Glencar’s proactive approach extends beyond its construction sites. The company is committed to monitoring the broader environmental impacts of HVO production, ensuring that its supply chain remains aligned with its sustainability principles. This dual focus on immediate impact and long-term responsibility reflects a comprehensive and forward-thinking ESG strategy.
A Shared Vision for a Cleaner Future
At VURDHAAN, we applaud Glencar’s forward-thinking commitment to sustainability. As a consultancy deeply invested in helping the road and construction sectors achieve their environmental goals, we understand the challenges and opportunities that come with transitioning to cleaner energy sources. Through tailored strategies and tools, we assist companies in navigating these transitions seamlessly, ensuring compliance with global standards while driving meaningful impact.
The Road Ahead: Building Momentum for Sustainability in Construction
Glencar’s transition to HVO fuel is more than an operational change—it is a statement of intent. It demonstrates that even energy-intensive industries like construction can adopt cleaner practices without compromising performance. By leading the charge, Glencar sets a precedent for others to follow, proving that sustainability and operational excellence can go hand in hand.
Conclusion: A Foundation for Green Growth
The construction industry plays a critical role in shaping our environment, both physically and environmentally. Glencar’s HVO initiative offers a tangible example of how industry leaders can take decisive action to reduce their carbon footprint. As the sector continues to innovate and adapt, the integration of sustainable practices will become not just a goal but a baseline expectation.
Through initiatives like these, the path to net-zero becomes clearer, underscoring the importance of collaboration, innovation, and accountability in building a greener future.