The majority of UK road traffic is made up of cars, but that’s only part of the story. An increasing reliance on home delivery and a greater need for services has increased the number of vans on the road. In fact, in 2018 vans made up nearly 16% of total traffic on Britain’s roads.
Light goods vehicles are responsible for around 19 million tonnes of CO2 per year in the UK, so it’s clear that there’s much to be done. It’s also apparent that while carbon offsetting through initiatives like tree-planting can help, there only one part of the solution and much more needs to be done to reduce the emissions of the vans themselves for real improvement to be seen.
Low emission vans should be an attractive prospect. They offer lower fuel costs, have no or low road tax and are exempt from congestion charges, but they also help to reduce greenhouse gases and improve air quality. Fortunately, people are keen to make the most of these benefits and things are starting to change for the better.
The newly available van engine technology and generous government grants mean there has never been a better time to invest in a new van.
Author: Bhok Thompson
Bhok Thompson is a Singapore-based engineer, entrepreneur, and self-proclaimed “eco-tinkerer” who thrives at the intersection of sustainability, business, and cutting-edge technology. With a background in mechanical engineering and a deep fascination with renewable energy, Bhok has dedicated his career to developing innovative solutions that bridge environmental consciousness with profitability. A frequent contributor to Green Prophet, Bhok writes about futuristic green tech, urban sustainability, and the latest trends in eco-friendly startups. His passion for engineering meets his love for business as he mentors young entrepreneurs looking to create scalable, impact-driven companies. Beyond his work, Bhok is an avid collector of vintage mechanical watches, believing they represent an era of precision and craftsmanship that modern technology often overlooks. On weekends, you can find him exploring the vibrant street food scene in Singapore—because, as he says, "Innovation starts with good energy, and nothing fuels creativity like great food!" Reach out: [email protected]
