O-I Glass is set to significantly reduce its CO2 emissions in the UK, particularly in Ireland, by implementing a new decarbonization initiative targeting transportation emissions. Starting from April 1, 2024, transport-related CO2 emissions for spirits bottles produced in Alloa, Scotland, to customers in Ireland will be reduced by approximately 75 percent.
As part of the carbon-reduction program, O-I has switched the transportation of spirits bottles in Ireland, spanning both Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland, from diesel fuel to hydrotreated vegetable oil (HVO).
HVO, classified as a second-generation biofuel, is derived entirely from renewable waste materials. Unlike traditional fossil fuels, HVO offers a sustainable alternative that significantly curtails carbon emissions. By embracing this innovative solution, O-I anticipates a remarkable reduction in CO2 emissions, with estimates suggesting an impressive 75 percent decrease. This equates to an annual reduction of up to 189 tonnes of CO2 emissions, or the equivalent electricity to power 34 homes for one year.
Included in this is the offset of the CO2 emissions associated with transporting bottles from O-I’s plant in Alloa, Scotland, to the warehouse in Northern Ireland by utilizing HVO elsewhere. Therefore, O-I’s spirits customers in Ireland – and the end consumers – are assured that the transport-related CO2 emissions from bottle plant to bottling plant are minimized and reduced by approximately 75 percent.
By pro-actively embracing innovative technologies and practices, O-I exemplifies its commitment to sustainable leadership.