27 Jul 2021

A global road safety barrier group, VRS Solutions Group, has made an ambitious commitment to fighting climate change and reducing its impact on the environment.

VRS Solutions Group, which consists of Asset VRS, Varley & Gulliver Parapets, Hardstaff Barriers, and Hill & Smith Barrier, has signed up to the Carbon Footprint Standard and is now on an important journey to reduce its carbon emissions.

Carbon Footprint Standard

The Midlands-based companies, which manufacture and supply vehicle restraint systems (VRS), will follow a six-step program, in order to reduce and offset their direct and indirect carbon emissions, and enhance their sustainability.

As part of the process, an assessment was made of the VRS Solutions Group’s 2020 Greenhouse Gas (GHG) emissions, resulting from the energy consumption at its yards and offices, and its business transport activities.

Offsetting carbon emissions

The group’s first major step towards offsetting its carbon emissions was funding the planting of 500 new trees, through the Verified Carbon Standard avoided deforestation program. As a result, 500 tons of CO2 will be saved in the Amazon Rainforest.

Thanks to the VRS Solutions Group, 130 new trees have been planted at the Penygarn Community Primary School, located in Pontypool and 250 trees have been planted at a school in Corby, in Northamptonshire, United Kingdom (UK).

Trees play a vital role in combating climate change

A further 120 trees will be planted in 2022, at the start of the planting season

A further 120 trees will be planted in 2022, at the start of the planting season. By absorbing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere, trees help to combat climate change. The planting of new ones makes a significant contribution towards offsetting carbon emissions.

Safety and protection are at the heart of VRS Solutions Group’s work. This applies to the environment and communities, as well as the products and services it provides.

Reducing CO2 emissions and improving the environment

Dave Todd, the Managing Director of Services at Hardstaff Barriers, said “Reducing the carbon footprint is high on our list of priorities and, as a group, we are determined to do everything in our power to reduce emissions and improve the environment.

Dave Todd adds, “We took this proactive step to sign up to the Carbon Footprint Standard, because we see it as our duty to try and protect the environment, our team and the communities that we work in.