The emphasis on an energy-efficient, low-carbon economy is more pronounced than ever in 2013, and owners of energy-guzzling, carbon-emitting factories, manufacturing plants and warehouses are encouraged to think about the ways in which they can reduce their carbon footprints. Think energy-saving light bulbs, recycled office stationery, car share schemes and even an increase in organic produce in the staff canteen. One of the major ways in which these types of businesses can contribute is by investing in standard pallet trucks, which are instrumental in saving energy around the workplace as they do not rely on any fuel other than manpower.
Phil Chesworth, Managing Director of Midland Pallet Trucks, one of the UK’s foremost suppliers of pallet trucks to all workplaces, says, “In accordance with their 2008 Climate Change Act, the government are always promoting carbon reduction and eco-friendly practices in the workplace. Pallet trucks are already a key factor in making many workplaces run efficiently, but they can play an integral role in cutting carbon emissions across the country in the types of working environments where it is needed most.”
Pallet trucks allow employees to transport huge capacities around warehouses and factories without using heavy machinery or gas-guzzling equipment. Their unique construction allows capacities that reach into the thousands of kilograms to be easily moved from A to B without the need to rely on carbon-emitting tools. They rely solely on the manpower of the employee operating them, making them one of the most energy-efficient modes of transportation in any warehouse or factory.
Hand pallet trucks can also be modified to increase their efficiency overall, contributing greatly to environmentally friendly practices. They come in many specialised models, with some able to traverse narrow lanes, some able to navigate rough terrain, and some able to carry much larger capacities than others. This can increase the productivity of the workforce and of the pallet trucks themselves, reducing the need to invest so often.
Pallet trucks are often made of stainless steel and other robust materials, which also means that disposing of them is a long and difficult process, using a lot of chemicals to break them down properly. Many pallet trucks are fully recyclable, and it is advised that as many businesses as possible get involved with trying to find other uses for their old pallet trucks. If the truck itself has gone beyond repair, but still boasts some parts in great working order, their parts can be harvested for use as spares to keep the rest of the fleet running for longer and prevent the company splashing out on new trucks. This in turn reduces a carbon footprint, and also puts money on the company pocket to be invested in further ‘green’ endeavours.