ECO Stars is a free, voluntary scheme providing recognition and tailor-made support on reducing fuel costs and environmental best practice to operators.

The scheme rates vehicles and the operation of a fleet using a star award system to recognise and improve levels of environmental performance.

Transport for Greater Manchester (TfGM) is leading the scheme that aims to improve air quality and protect public health.

“We’re working very hard with our partners to improve Manchester’s air quality and taking part in the scheme helps the city on its way to reducing its carbon emissions by 48% by 2020,” said environment spokesperson Helen Smith.

The scheme launched this month and hopes to work with operators in pollution hotspots like Trafford Park. 

Many major operators in the area have already signed up, including Nisa and Superdrug, who are already taking advantage of the support offered.

Current operators who have benefited from the scheme include JG Pears. 

Recommendations by the ECO Stars team led to fleet renewal, improved performance management and a driver training plan.

These improvements resulted in an average MPG increase of 10%, reduced insurance costs by £80k and an 8% reduction in carbon emissions.

ECO Stars is being managed on behalf of TfGM by specialist transport consultants, Transport and Travel Research Ltd (TTR).

“The scheme is free to sign up to, the process is simple and by following our advice, businesses could improve their fuel efficiency by up to 5%," said Morag White, TTR’s Deputy Programme Manager for ECO Stars.

"We hope that Manchester’s fleet operators, whether one-man bands or larger operators, will take full advantage of this opportunity to make a difference to both their bottom line and their local environment.”

For more information call the ECO Stars Team on 01543 416416, or email ecostars@ttr-ltd.com.