A trial has begun at BT to test the efficacy of utilising electric vans for engineers handling residential contracts - a move that could lead to greater interest in electrical courses if it is rolled out across the whole company.

Chief sustainability officer at BT Openreach Ian Hill suggested the four vehicles being trialled could offer the organisation a host of benefits.

However, engineers who have completed electrical courses may be more excited about the prospect of more demand for their services.

Mr Hill said: "Not only are they environmentally friendly, but the vans could deliver longer-term cost benefits and their quietness makes them perfect for working in residential areas."

He added that BT cut its carbon emissions from transportation by 20 per cent last year and the use of electric vans is intended to reduce them further.

Last week, the company unveiled the latest BT sustainable development index and claimed it is important for governments around the world to work alongside businesses to deal with issues such as water resource management and education.

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