FPT Industrial, a leading brand in low-environmental-impact mobility solutions, and Edison Next, a subsidiary of the Edison Group focused on guiding companies through decarbonization, have announced a pioneering initiative at FPT Industrial’s Turin Stura site. The partnership has led to the creation of the first-ever biomonitoring station that utilizes bees as environmental sentinels. This innovative project aligns with both companies’ commitment to sustainability, reducing the impact of their operations on the environment and supporting local communities.
Bees have long been recognized as valuable indicators of environmental health, acting as “air quality sentries.” They possess a remarkable ability to detect changes in their surroundings caused by pollutants and contribute to safeguarding biodiversity through their crucial role in pollination. As such, they serve as reliable biosensors, providing valuable insights into the overall health of the ecosystem.
The biomonitoring station established at the Turin Stura site houses six hives of Italian bees, specifically the Apis mellifera ligustica subspecies. These bees produce high-quality lime, wildflower, and acacia honeys, recently recognized for their excellence in a regional competition. Edison Next, responsible for energy and environmental services at the site, has played a significant role in the development of the new ePowertrain plant, which focuses on producing FPT Industrial’s electric range. The plant represents an important step toward decarbonization and achieving net-zero CO2 emissions for both products and industrial activities.
The ePowertrain plant is the first carbon-neutral facility within the Iveco Group, generating renewable energy through solar panels on its facade. Innovative technologies such as the “mini Wind Tower” and the “Smartflower,” installed by Edison Next, further contribute to its sustainability. Additionally, the Turin site features the Iveco Group Sustainability Garden, spanning 6,000 square meters and planted with over 100 drought-resistant native species known for their CO2 absorbing properties.
FPT Industrial employs the Biodiversity Risk Evaluation (BRE) methodology to assess the environmental impact of its production sites. This approach provides insights into biodiversity surrounding the plant, identifies associated risks, and proposes interventions to mitigate negative influences on biodiversity. At the Turin site, the BRE methodology has been applied since 2021, taking into account protected nature areas like the Parco del Meisino.
Biomonitoring stations are just one aspect of FPT Industrial’s broader strategy to combat pollution, protect the environment, and conserve natural resources through sustainable products and processes. Edison Next complements this effort by assisting customers and regions in their ecological transition, offering innovative solutions for decarbonization and resource optimization. The company actively contributes to the circular economy and environmental services industry, focusing on the development of biomethane and hydrogen markets.
The collaboration between FPT Industrial and Edison Next has resulted in a remarkable biomonitoring station utilizing bees as indicators of environmental health. This initiative showcases the commitment of both companies to sustainability, exemplifying their efforts to reduce environmental impact and support the local community. By combining technology, innovation, and ecological stewardship, FPT Industrial and Edison Next are spearheading the transition towards a greener future.
