In the photo from left to right: Race Director, Mervyn Whyte MBE, Mayor of Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council, Councillor Ciaran McQuillan, Ciaran McKay, Business Development Manager, Welfare & Events Balloo Hire and Gerard McAuley, Environmental Officer NW200.

Environmental Sustainability at the Briggs Equipment North West 200

The Mayor of Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council, Councillor Ciaran McQuillan met with Mervyn Whyte MBE to hear first hand on the environmental sustainability initiatives being taken by the Briggs Equipment North West 200 this year.

The NW200 has increased its focus on the environmental sustainability of the event and reducing its carbon footprint. The NW200 has always aimed to deliver an enjoyable event whilst minimising the impact to the environment and local community in as far as it is possible. Each year sustainability objectives are set to reduce resource use and consider environmental impacts, including careful waste management and recycling in partnership with Causeway Coast & Glens Borough Council.

Now, in collaboration with Event Sponsors, Balloo Hire Centres, part of the Briggs Equipment Group, the NW is taking its environmental sustainability a stage further. The NW200 Media Centre will be powered with a Hussh Pod battery storage unit, giving unparalleled performance whilst reducing both harmful Co2 emissions and noise pollution, along with fuel savings both on site and logistical fuel, with additional Hussh Pods in use in other paddock locations. Standard generators in the main paddock will be run on HVO fuel, a renewable diesel fuel produced from vegetable oils and fats. HVO fuel, short for hydrotreated vegetable oil, is a renewable diesel fuel produced from vegetable oils and fats. It's a direct drop-in replacement for traditional diesel, meaning it can be used in existing engines without modifications. HVO is known for its high sustainability and low carbon footprint, offering up to a 90% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions compared to fossil fuels.

Hussh Pods reduce diesel CO₂ emissions by 2.68 kg CO₂ per litre of diesel. 868 kg CO₂ is saved by using a battery storage system for 10 hours instead of running a 150 kVA diesel generator. The total event CO₂ saved by using the battery storage units this year is estimated at 39,720 kg. To further lower CO₂ emissions, HVO can reduce lifecycle greenhouse gas emissions by up to 90% compared to fossil diesel, depending on the feedstock and production method, reduced NOx (nitrogen oxides) and Particulate Matter. It burns cleaner, resulting in lower these emissions, improving air quality. HVO is biodegradable and non-toxic, safer for the environment in case of spills, especially in sensitive or remote locations. Cleaner Burning also results in less carbon buildup in engines, leading to less maintenance and longer engine life.

The fuel used by the competitors is provided by Euro M-Sport, while still a fossil fuel, it is formulated to not only provide power for the race, but also to reduce the amount of carbon emission produced when burned. Furthermore, as the fuel is also a standardised fuel source for all the bikes in the race, it means the race officials have a more accurate benchmark of the emissions that are being produced and the overall impact of the event on the local environment and air quality. Plus, the method by which the fuel is supplied to each racer means there is less waste which also gives the event a better environmental footprint. The official’s compound will have specific recycling stations for all those using this part of the race paddock and plans are in place to further extend at source waste recycling in the future.

In another advancement, the NW has appointed an Environmental Officer to work alongside the event’s Safety Manager to further enhance the management of any incidents. Work has also commenced to achieve full environmental accreditation through the governing body of the sport.

Speaking at the photoshoot to announce the initiative, race boss Mervyn Whyte MBE expressed his appreciation,

“The NW200 has always aimed to reduce its environmental impacts and the steps we are taking, including the partnership with Balloo Hire Centres will help us achieve our goals. Their exciting range of sustainable products and their support is greatly appreciated.”

Ciaran McKay, Business Development Manager, Welfare & Events for Balloo Hire Centres added,

“Our commitment to environmental responsibility extends beyond traditional construction hire projects, and we are excited to support the iconic NW200 racing event with our vast range of eco-friendly equipment solutions. By integrating sustainable machinery into this prestigious NI event, we are not only enhancing event efficiency and reducing its environmental footprint, but ultimately demonstrating our dedication to reducing carbon footprints in every facet of industry. Together, we're proud to help drive towards a greener, more sustainable future for motorsport and beyond."

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