THE UK's first ever custom-built hydrogen waste collection vehicle has arrived in St Helens.

The vehicle is set to begin its first round of collection in the coming weeks following its debut appearance in the borough today. 

The investment by St Helens Borough Council is part of their commitment to reach net-zero carbon emissions by 2040. 

In addition to using electric motor and a hydrogen fuel cell to charge the battery to ensure zero carbon emissions, the vehicle is significantly quieter than traditional waste lorries.

The vehicle was developed by FAUN Zoeller UK with Daimler AG based in Stuttgart, our borough's historic twin town located in Germany. 

Councillor Andy Bowden, St Helens Borough Council’s Cabinet Member for Environment and Transport, said: "Our aspiration is to be at the forefront of a green revolution taking place in the region – investing in renewables, diversifying the green skills of our workforce, future-proofing our services, hosting cutting-edge decarbonisation projects in industry and fostering climate action locally at grassroots.

"Supported by investment in electrics and the most efficient diesel vehicles, we have confidence that our decarbonisation plans can be introduced in a managed way that doesn’t compromise service delivery to our residents.

"This vehicle represents our faith in the renewables sector as both a service provider and employer, and our commitment to net-zero emissions by 2040, and I’m delighted to see it arrive in the borough."

The hydrogen-fuelled vehicle could also be a potential subject of educational programmes within the borough to offer young people the opportunity to learn about hydrogen technology and its role in the future economy. 

It is also the subject to boost further investment in eletric and hydrogen transport infrastructure within the city region.