Roundtree Way Announced as Verified Net Zero-Emission Depot

Following the full electrification of its commercial bus fleet in April, this week First Bus’ Roundtree Way depot in Norwich, has been announced as one of the UK’s first independently verified net zero-emission bus depots.

Roundtree Way has built on the progress of its fully electric commercial bus fleet, by investing in the necessary additional carbon reduction requirements to claim net zero status.

The net-zero claim was reviewed and verified by leading environmental consultancy, Carbon Footprint Ltd.

Reaching this goal has meant going a step beyond eliminating fleet tailpipe emissions by accounting for other direct operational emissions, including the energy used to power depots and ancillary vehicles.

Following bus fleet electrification, First Bus has undertaken further carbon reduction measures such as installing solar PV panels on depot roofs. In addition, First Bus buys 100% REGO*-certified renewable electricity.

First Bus is committed to reducing its impact on the communities it serves whilst creating cleaner air for future generations.

By putting the bus at the heart of an integrated, sustainable and reliable transport network, the operator aims to tackle congestion, liberate roads and public spaces, and deal with the climate emergency by ending dependency on fossil fuels.

Isabel McAllister, Chief Sustainability and Compliance Officer for First Bus, said: “We’re so proud that Roundtree Way is now verified as a net zero-emission operation. This is a huge step for First Bus as we continue to lead the way in this space within the bus industry.

“We take our net zero-emission strategy incredibly seriously and look forward to continuing the electrification of our fleets, whilst ensuring we keep delivering on our sustainability promises to the benefit of our people and our customers.”

Piers Marlow, Managing Director of First Bus East of England, said: “This major achievement is the result of great work by the local team in Norwich. It places Roundtree Way at the forefront of the First Bus mission to reach a zero emission UK bus fleet by 2035.

“We’re immensely proud to lead the industry in tackling climate change, and we look forward to continuing this important work across the region.”

* REGO Renewable Energy Guarantees of Origin