During the recent Waste Expo 2024 held at the Las Vegas West Hall Convention Center May 7th though 9th, I had the opportunity to discuss the future of sustainable waste management with Martin Mattsson, Volvo’s Director of Strategic Accounts. This year, the focus was on Volvo’s groundbreaking electric vehicles (EVs) and construction equipment, heralding a new era for the waste and recycling industry.
Pioneering Sustainable Solutions with Electric Vehicles
Volvo has made significant strides in integrating electric technology into their construction equipment lineup. At the expo, Volvo showcased how their electric vehicles, particularly in the waste and recycling sectors, are not just viable but preferable alternatives to traditional diesel-powered machines. The display included electric excavators and wheel loaders, which are leading the charge towards a more sustainable, efficient, and cost-effective industry.
The Electric Excavator at Work: A Case Study with Stena Recycling
A highlight of our discussion was the success story of the EC230, 23-ton fully electric excavator working at Coastal Waste & Recycling’s operations in Pompano Beach, Florida. The material recycling facility where the Volvo EC230 Electric is being used is performing the same work as its equivalent diesel model, feeding material into a sorting line. The machine has been on site since winter, moving over 100 tons of construction and recycling debris each day. The machine runs approximately four hours each morning, with a quick top-off charge at lunch before working the remainder of the day. At night the unit charges on grid power at the facility so it is back at 100% charge for the next day.
“Coastal Waste & Recycling has been a great partner and has always been interested in any new technology they can incorporate to drive efficiency and excellence throughout their operations,” said Martin.
Electric Wheel Loaders: Powering Through with Sustainable Energy
Also on display was an L25 Electric compact loader. A similar version of the show model is currently working at SFR Recovery in the San Francisco Bay area, sorting construction and demolition material. The quiet, fumeless operation of the electric loaders, solid run times on a single charge and easy access to standard 110/240 grid power make the compact machines a good fit for material recycling facilities and transfer stations.
Charging Solutions and Economic Benefits
The Expo was not only about showcasing equipment but also about illustrating the holistic benefits of switching to electric. Volvo provided insights into the economic advantages, such as the lower operational costs due to reduced fuel expenses and maintenance. Furthermore, the company highlighted tools like runtime calculators and CO₂ savings calculators, which help businesses quantify the benefits of transitioning to electric construction equipment.
Leading the Way in Eco-Friendly Construction Practices
Volvo’s commitment to zero-emission solutions is transforming how the waste and recycling industry approaches sustainability. By reducing noise pollution and enhancing operational efficiency, electric construction equipment is proving to be a game-changer, opening new opportunities for working in sensitive environments and low-carbon zones.
A Sustainable Future in Sight
The discussions and demonstrations at the Waste Expo 2024 underscored the critical role of innovation in driving the waste and recycling industry towards a more sustainable future. With leaders like Volvo at the forefront, the shift to electric construction equipment is not just a possibility but a reality that promises significant environmental and economic benefits. As we continue to embrace these advanced technologies, the industry is well-positioned to meet its sustainability goals while setting new standards for efficiency and environmental responsibility.
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