By sharing equipment, the rental industry contributes to avoiding carbon emissions. PHOTO: Manitoy

A new report shows that by sharing equipment, the rental industry contributes to avoiding carbon emissions. The report, commissioned by the European Rental Association (ERA), found that efficient use lowers the total carbon footprint of equipment and that the rental business model stimulates efficient use. Depending on specific user practice, ERA estimates that this can lead to significant reductions in the range of 30%, and sometimes over 50%. "Ten pieces of equipment, from several manufacturers, were selected to be analysed for the research to represent a wide variety of popular equipment categories, including earthmoving, materials handling, access, power and tool," according to the association. The research has resulted in the creation of a carbon calculator based on intensity of use, equipment type, load factors and maintenance, and the ERA says the calculator will allow users to choose the most efficient and environmentally friendly scenario for the use of equipment. ERA is the representative association of the equipment rental sector in Europe, promoting the shift from the "ownership of goods" to the "access to goods" - reducing resources and making better use of equipment throughout its lifecycle.