A security guarding company has taken ownership of a new electric car in west London. Ward Security says that it’s part of a commitment to reducing the company’s carbon footprint. The new Nissan Leaf has been deployed at the International Trading Estate Southall, pictured, where the company provides 24 hour security for the estate.
Managing Director Kevin Ward said his firm takes its environmental responsibilities seriously. “The company is ISO 14001 accredited for our Environmental Management System and we recently purchased new fleet vehicles and gave fleet managers control using tracker and driver management. Consequently we have managed to decrease emissions per vehicle despite a 9.5pc increase in fleet size and now achieve 70-80mpg and lower fuel costs, while ensuring drivers drive sensibly and safely as they are being monitored and managed properly.
“It is important that we have a particular focus on transport as the nature of the business means we have a lot of staff using a lot of vehicles to travel a lot of miles, so the challenge is considerable and takes a concerted effort from everyone across the company. However, we are delighted by what we have achieved so far. The purchase of a new electric vehicle is another step towards further reductions in our carbon footprint.”
During 2016 Ward is looking to replace 18 vehicles with newer vehicles that offer better fuel consumption and lower emissions. The new vehicles will be limited to 62mph and will feature stop/start technology to further add to miles-per-gallon and reduce emissions.
On corporate social responsibility, Ward adds, the company regularly sponsors, contributes or fund-raises for charities, including Abigail’s Footsteps – a national charity for bereaved families and promoting safer births. The company sponsors Aylesford Rugby Club and runs safety campaigns with local schools. Ward supports the Medway Foodbank Trust by providing a free security service for the foodbank’s warehouse and volunteering staff to help in the warehouse, and allows staff to take time off for charity work.
