Green Acres goes truly green

Green Acres has partnered with Stihl to launch an ambitious nationwide emissions reduction programme by transitioning from petrol to battery-powered equipment.

The partnership between the home services franchise business and outdoor power equipment company will see 181 Green Acres Lawn & Garden franchisees transition to the “cordless range” battery-powered lawn and garden care equipment from Stihl during the next three years.

The programme is expected to reduce carbon emissions by more than 80 metric tonnes across the group annually – equal to taking at least 25 Ford Rangers off the road annually for the next three years.

The partnership followed a six-month trial by Green Acres franchisees across the country comparing power, performance, weight, handling, noise and convenience of several brands in different conditions.

This trial aimed to assess the overall business performance of battery-powered equipment in a commercial environment to ensure that they would improve the safety and efficiency of franchisees’ businesses while reducing carbon emissions.

As well as reducing emissions, franchisees will save up to $18,343 over the life of the battery (five years) compared to petrol equipment, with a pay-back period of 16-18 months, says Green Acres.

In a recent survey, more than 35% of Green Acres’ customers who responded emphasised they continually monitor and adapt their approach to transport, energy consumption, food, packaging and recycling.

When it comes to recent changes in their households, about 57% of respondents actively monitor energy consumption, while 35% of respondents have replaced home appliances with ones that have a higher energy star rating of four or better.

The partnership gives Green Acres franchisees access to Stihl’s nationwide service and support network, technology and research and development pipeline.

Stihl also has a national battery recycling programme, available free to all its customers.

Green Acres has compiled a comprehensive package that covers equipment, a green technology pathway, service and support, and financing and gives franchisees access to the ANZ Business Green Loan to assist with the transition.

The loan allows eligible customers to borrow at a special floating rate which can be used for investments in renewable energy, energy efficiency, sustainable land and water use, and the building, renovating, or purchasing of green buildings and clean transport.

“Our partnership with Stihl demonstrates our commitment to ongoing innovation and sustainability,” says Green Acres general manager Jason Hill.

“Through this programme, we also hope to change the mindset that switching to a greener business model requires lots of work,” he says.

“It is easier than you might think, and businesses can take action to drive sustainability at their own pace instead of waiting for regulatory changes.”

Stihl’s battery-powered range features innovative, high-quality power equipment that not only delivers exceptional performance but also contributes to a greener future, while maintenance costs are lower than petrol equipment, says Stihl key accounts manager Brad Cathcart.