Electric Hook-Up@Ashford

 

Sustainability at Ashford International Truckstop

Supporting a Cleaner, Safer Future for Drivers, Logistics, and the Local Community

At Ashford International Truckstop, sustainability is not just a statement – it’s a responsibility. As one of the leading secure HGV parking and truck stop facilities in Kent, UK, serving international lorry drivers, logistics companies, and freight operators, we recognise the impact our operations have on the environment, our community, and the people who use our site every day.

We are committed to making practical, measurable improvements that support a cleaner, safer, and more responsible future for road transport and logistics.

Supporting A Greener Transport Industry

The transport and logistics sector plays a vital role in the UK and European economy, and we believe it can also play a leading role in sustainability. As a major truck stop near the Port of Dover and Eurotunnel, we aim to support drivers and fleet operators by providing facilities that:

  • Reduce unnecessary waste
  • Improve fuel and energy efficiency
  • Support responsible environmental practices
  • Enhance driver welfare and safety

Our goal is to help create a more sustainable transport network while maintaining reliable, secure, and professional services for drivers travelling across the UK and Europe.

What We're Doing

Practical Sustainability Actions at Our Truck Stop

We are taking a step-by-step approach to sustainability, focusing on actions that deliver real environmental and operational impact.

Energy Efficiency 

We are taking a step-by-step approach to sustainability, focusing on actions that deliver real environmental and operational impact.

Reducing energy consumption across our truck stop and HGV parking facilities through:

  • Energy-efficient LED lighting across the site
  • Modern equipment is designed to reduce power usage
  • Improved operational practices to minimise energy waste

This helps reduce carbon emissions while maintaining a safe and well-lit environment for drivers.

Waste Reduction & Recycling

We actively promote responsible waste management across our lorry park and driver facilities, including:

  • Clearly marked recycling points
  • Waste separation systems
  • Reduced reliance on landfill disposal

Our aim is to maintain a clean, environmentally responsible truck stop environment for drivers and the surrounding community.

Water Responsibility

Water is used daily across our driver showers, laundry facilities, and vehicle cleaning services, and we are committed to using it responsibly by:

  • Monitoring water usage
  • Maintaining efficient plumbing systems
  • Encouraging responsible use of facilities

This helps protect local resources and supports long-term environmental sustainability.

Site Cleanliness & Environmental Care

Maintaining a clean and well-managed secure truck stop in Ashford is essential for safety, environmental protection, and driver satisfaction.

Our team regularly cleans:

  • Access roads
  • Parking areas
  • Driver rest areas
  • External site surroundings

This ensures a safe, professional, and environmentally responsible HGV parking environment.

Sustainable Purchasing

Where possible, we work with suppliers who share our commitment to:

  • Responsible sourcing
  • Reduced environmental impact
  • Sustainable product use

This supports environmentally responsible supply chains across our truck stop operations.

Electric Hook-Up Points for Refrigerated Vehicles 

We provide on-site electric hook-up points for refrigerated trucks (fridge units), allowing drivers to:

  • Reduce fuel consumption
  • Lower engine emissions
  • Minimise noise pollution
  • Improve energy efficiency

This is particularly important for drivers operating temperature-controlled vehicles and supports quieter, cleaner overnight parking.

Eco-Friendly Truck Washing 

Our third-party truck washing facility uses environmentally responsible processes, including:

  • Eco-friendly detergents
  • Controlled water usage
  • Wastewater management systems

These measures help protect wildlife and reduce environmental impact.

Supporting Drivers

Practical Actions That Make a Difference 

Drivers are at the heart of everything we do. We actively promote simple, practical actions that help reduce environmental impact while improving safety and comfort.

We encourage drivers to:

  • Switch off engines when parked
  • Use on-site facilities responsibly
  • Dispose of waste correctly using recycling points
  • Report leaks, spills, or maintenance issues

By working together, small actions can make a big difference across the transport industry.

Our Community and Responsibility

Ashford International Truckstop is proud to be part of the local community in Kent, supporting both residents and the transport industry.

We are committed to:

  • Operating responsibly
  • Respecting local neighbours
  • Maintaining high safety and environmental standards
  • Providing a secure and professional environment for drivers

Sustainability also means creating a site that people feel safe, comfortable, and confident using.

Our Community and Responsibility

Future Investment in Sustainable Transport Infrastructure

Sustainability is a journey, not a one-time project. We continuously review our operations, listen to feedback from drivers and logistics partners, and explore new ways to improve our environmental performance.

Current Investment Includes:

  • Installation of upgraded power infrastructure
  • Preparation for future megawatt electric truck charging
  • Support for low-emission transport technology
  • Long-term sustainability planning

These developments will help support the transition to electric and low-emission heavy goods vehicles (HGVs) across the UK and Europe.

Our Commitment

We believe that responsible truck stops and secure HGV parking facilities play a key role in shaping the future of transport.

And we are committed to being part of that future.

 

Operations Director 

Darren Smith