The fleet recognition scheme ECO Stars has expanded to the North West with the launch of the scheme in Warrington.  

ECO Stars, which is free to join, encourages fleet operators of all sizes to improve efficiency, reduce fuel consumption and emissions to help improve local transport related air quality. 

When joining, members have their vehicles and overall fleet rated by industry experts to assess their current performance – both operational and environmental – and achieve an ECO Stars rating between one and five.

A bespoke 'road map' is then produced containing tailor-made guidance to help improve the efficiency of their fleet.

Warrington Borough Council’s Executive board member for environment and public protection, Cllr David Keane, said:  “We’re working very hard with our partners to improve air quality in Warrington. Having bad quality air shortens lifetimes by several months, so it’s something we’re doing our best to sort out."

Cllr Linda Dirir, who is responsible for transport and climate change, added: “Taking part in the ECO Stars scheme will help the council deliver on its very demanding target of 40% reductions in CO2 emissions.”

The scheme was launched in Warrington with award presentations to inaugural member, including Pepsico, Hargreaves Logistics and Martin Brower. 

Sam Mather, transport manager at PepsiCo, said: “We got involved in the scheme to improve not only sustainability but also efficiency.

"We wanted to benchmark our progress and sense check how we are doing compared to other companies. ECO Stars has been a fresh pair of eyes and is able to provide us with feedback on how we can go on and improve further.”

ECO Stars began in South Yorkshire in 2009, and has now expanded to 10 more areas in the UK . 

Ann Beddoes, national ECO Stars scheme manager, said: “ECO Stars is really gathering momentum. Following recent launches in Scotland, we are delighted to welcome the first scheme in the North West."

ECO Stars is being managed on behalf of Warrington Borough Council by transport consultants, Transport and Travel Research.