Since the beginning of the year GW Highways have switched our entire fleet of construction plant to Shell GTL as an alternative to diesel and as part of our wider responsibility in delivering a more sustainable future in highways construction.
We are committed to decreasing our carbon emissions and the impact our operations have on the environment in any way we can and being able to use a cleaner alternative to diesel is just one innovation on this roadmap.
The manufacturing process for Shell GTL produces more consistent and uniform molecules compared to conventional crude oil refining. It also has improved combustion properties inside standard diesel engines, helps reduce emissions of air pollutants and is free of unwanted components such as sulphur, metals, and aromatics, making it non-toxic and therefore less harmful to the environment.
Shell GTL Fuel is more biodegradable than conventional diesel. OECD 301 and 307 tests have shown that GTL Fuel can be classified as ‘readily biodegradable’ and was not detectable in soil 51 days after being introduced. Shell GTL is not harmful if inhaled, fumes pose less risk of eye irritation, there is less risk of skin irritation and it doesn’t cause significant organ damage through prolonged or repeated exposure.