Finning is showing support for an exciting new addition to the show gardens at RHS Malvern Spring Festival by donating one of the latest Cat next generation mini excavators to carry out groundworks for the innovative creation.
The garden, created around the theme of ‘it doesn’t have to cost the earth’ has been designed by landscape architect, Michael Lote, and showcases innovative sustainable construction products and methods.
Mike is an advocate for creating beautiful gardens in an on-trend style with an environmental conscience, demonstrating that gardens can be both stunning and sustainable. The garden combines native species and a modern naturalistic approach and uses contemporary and reclaimed materials.
Photo: Garden designer, Mike Lote
Keen to ensure all aspects of the show garden adhered to sustainability principles, Mike contacted Finning, the world’s largest dealer of Cat machines, parts and services, for help sourcing a machine to carry out the earthworks that aligned with the project’s commitment to sustainability and the environment.
Following initial discussions, Finning offered to loan Mike the use of the latest Next Generation 1.5 tonne Cat 301.5 mini excavator for use in the scheme. The machine is fully compliant with the latest EU Stage V emissions regulations and compatible with renewable energy sources so can be run on either 100% renewable diesel or HVO (hydrogenated vegetable oil).
The machine is also fitted with a host of built-in technology features designed to offer high performance alongside operational efficiencies that reduce unnecessary fuel usage and subsequent greenhouse gas emissions.
Andy Davies, Head of BCP at Finning UK & Ireland explains: “The latest Cat machines come with a whole host of in-built technology features that have been specifically designed to support efficient operation – including reduced fuel burn which then generates less emissions, so seemed a perfect fit for this exciting show garden project.
“We worked closely with Mike to understand what was required for the show garden and were delighted to loan the use of a Cat 1.5 tonne mini excavator for a week to prepare the ground and complete the necessary groundworks.
“Sustainability is at the forefront of decision making today across both the agricultural and construction sectors, and we’re seeing a real shift in our customers choosing machines that adhere to these principles.”
This year’s show theme is ‘Gardening for change’. After the event the garden is set to be repurposed for Woodoaks Farm – which is owned by the Soil Association Land Trust.
The farm is currently undergoing a transformation that will see it create permanent training and educational space to facilitate learning for school children and adults, growing together with the horticultural and agricultural industry. It will support a climate friendly future with plenty of biodiversity, improving habitat for wildlife and continuing to welcome people.
Garden designer, Mike Lote said: ‘It doesn’t have to cost the Earth’ was inspired by personal experience in creating gardens for others. We are using beautiful recycled and innovative sustainable materials, some of which are a first for RHS shows and previously unseen in landscaping here in the UK.
“I’m extremely grateful to Finning for supporting this innovative garden project. It was interesting to learn about how equipment, such as the excavator we used, have evolved so they support more sustainable construction methods.”
The RHS Malvern Spring Festival takes place between the 9th and 12th May.
