A COUNCIL has gone from green to greener by using an environmentally-friendly fuel to run its vans and lorries.

The vast majority of the Durham County Council's 480-strong fleet of vehicles are being converted from ultra low sulphur diesel to run on new bio diesel.

The authority, which uses almost 1m litres of diesel a year, made the change after trials and discussions with vehicle manufacturers.

Transport managers believe the switch will cut harmful exhaust gas emissions, provide more miles per gallon and lower fuel bills.

Bio diesel is a non-carcinogenic and biodegradable sustainable fuel made from a blend of ultra low sulphur diesel and methyl esters, which are produced from organic oils and fats.

Councillor Bob Pendlebury, Durham County Council's cabinet member for the environment, transport and sustainability, said : "Bio diesel will enhance the performance of our large fleet as well as making a significant reduction in emissions and the use of precious fossil fuels."

The switch to bio diesel is one of a series of measures by the council to improve the environmental performance of its vehicle fleet, including the use of LPG and devices in the exhaust systems of larger vehicles to trap particles produced during fuel combustion.