Carbon Footprints – The Real Impact of UK-Made vs. Imported Products

Lyte Ladders • November 4, 2024

Choosing Lyte Ladders means choosing a lower carbon footprint. Our UK-made products save on the emissions generated by long-distance shipping from the Far East. It’s a win for quality and the environment!


Imported ladders typically travel thousands of miles before reaching the UK, generating substantial carbon emissions. In contrast, our ladders are manufactured locally, drastically reducing the emissions associated with transportation. This not only supports our commitment to sustainability but also ensures that our products are of the highest quality and reliability.



Let's take a deeper dive into the real environmental impact of these products, looking beyond just transportation emissions. By analysing the broader lifecycle of products — from raw material extraction to disposal — we can fully understand the carbon footprint of imported versus locally manufactured goods.

Understanding the Lifecycle of Imported Products

Imported products, especially those manufactured in regions like the Far East, have a complex and carbon-intensive supply chain. While the shipping emissions alone are significant — cargo ships burn vast amounts of heavy fuel oil, emitting sulphur and carbon dioxide into the atmosphere — there are other factors to consider:


  • Energy Sources in Manufacturing: Many manufacturing facilities in countries like China rely on coal or other fossil fuels, which are far more carbon-intensive than renewable energy sources. This adds significantly to the carbon footprint before products even leave the factory.
  • Raw Material Extraction: Often, the extraction of raw materials occurs in locations far from the manufacturing site, leading to additional emissions from transportation. For example, aluminium used in Far East-manufactured products may be sourced from different parts of the world, adding layers of transportation emissions before it even reaches the production line.
  • Product Longevity and Repairs: Imported ladders and access equipment are often designed for a shorter lifecycle. When a product’s life ends sooner, replacements are needed, and the carbon emissions associated with producing, transporting, and disposing of multiple products quickly add up.


By the time a ladder or other product manufactured in the Far East arrives in the UK, its carbon footprint can be substantial, owing not just to the emissions from shipping, but also to the fossil-fuel-heavy manufacturing processes, resource extraction, and the overall inefficiency of its lifecycle.

 

The UK Advantage: Local Manufacturing, Renewable Energy, and Lower Emissions

In contrast, UK-made products such as the ones we make at Lyte Ladders & Towers benefit from several key advantages that make them far more environmentally friendly:


  • Renewable Energy: More and more UK manufacturers, including Lyte, are shifting to renewable energy sources such as solar and wind power. At Lyte Ladders, our facility is powered in part by our recently installed 350kW solar power system, generating 320mW of clean energy annually. This drastically cuts emissions from manufacturing, particularly when compared to factories powered by coal or natural gas.
  • Shorter Supply Chains: UK-made products don’t need to travel thousands of miles to reach customers. The reduced transportation distances translate to lower emissions from shipping and logistics, helping to cut the overall carbon footprint. With imports, the carbon impact of sea and land transport is a key concern, whereas UK manufacturing keeps emissions to a minimum due to the proximity of production to the end user.
  • Sustainable Materials: In addition to the advantages of shorter supply chains and renewable energy, we are committed to using Recycled Low-Carbon Aluminium 4.0 in the rungs of our ladders. This aluminium has one of the lowest carbon footprints in the world — just 4.0 kg CO2e per kg, compared to the global average of 16.7 kg CO2e. By sourcing sustainable materials, we’re further reducing the environmental impact of our products.
  • Repairability and Longevity: One often overlooked factor is the repairability of UK-made products. At Lyte, our ladders are designed to be repaired and maintained, extending their lifespan significantly. This reduces the need for frequent replacements, thereby minimising waste and the associated emissions from manufacturing and shipping new products. Longer-lasting, repairable products represent a circular approach to manufacturing, keeping materials in use for as long as possible and reducing the carbon footprint over time.


Environmental and Economic Benefits

By choosing UK-made products, you can contribute to sustainability in two key ways:


  • Reduced Carbon Footprint: By minimising the emissions from transportation, energy use, and raw material sourcing, UK-made products have a dramatically smaller carbon footprint compared to imported products. This contributes to national and global carbon reduction goals, supporting the transition to a low-carbon economy.
  • Supporting Local Jobs and Innovation: Beyond the environmental benefits, purchasing UK-made products supports local industries, helping to create and maintain jobs in the UK. At Lyte, for example, we’re not just producing ladders — we’re investing in the latest manufacturing technologies, such as our use of Recycled Low-Carbon Aluminium, which helps drive forward the UK’s leadership in sustainable manufacturing.



The Way Forward: Choosing Sustainability

As businesses and consumers become more aware of the environmental impacts of their purchasing decisions, the importance of choosing sustainable, UK-made products continues to grow. The UK Government’s Net Zero by 2050 goal means that reducing carbon emissions is a national priority, and manufacturers like Lyte are leading the way in creating products that meet the demands of both quality and sustainability.


By selecting UK-made ladders with Recycled Low-Carbon Aluminium rungs, you're not only supporting local manufacturing but also reducing your own carbon footprint and contributing to a greener future. As the global conversation around sustainability intensifies, it’s clear that the decisions we make now will have a lasting impact on the environment.


Remember, the comparison between UK-made and imported products is not just about emissions from shipping — it’s about the entire lifecycle of a product. From the raw materials used to the manufacturing processes, transportation, and eventual disposal, UK-made products like those from Lyte Ladders stand out as the more sustainable choice. By opting for locally produced, repairable products made from recycled materials, we can collectively reduce our environmental impact and help drive the transition to a more sustainable economy.

Understanding the Non-Conductive Nature of Glassfibre Ladders

May 15, 2025
When it comes to working at height in electrical environments, safety is absolutely critical. That’s where glassfibre ladders – often referred to as fibre glass ladders – come into their own. Known for their non-conductive properties, glassfibre ladders have become the trusted choice for electricians, utilities, and facilities maintenance teams across the UK. However, it's important to recognise that not all glassfibre ladders offer the same level of electrical protection .

New Product Launch - Glassfibre Professional Combination Ladder

May 9, 2025
We’re proud to introduce the latest addition to our range of trade-focused access solutions — the GFLCL Glassfibre Professional Combination Ladder. Designed and manufactured in the UK, the GFLCL has been developed with electrical safety, versatility, and quality in mind. It combines the strength and durability of our renowned LCL Professional Combination Ladder with the non-conductive benefits of heavy-duty glassfibre stiles, ensuring a safer solution for professionals working near electricity.

The Ultimate Guide to Choosing Safe and Reliable Ladders for Trade Professionals

March 3, 2025
Working at height is a daily reality for trade professionals, from scaffolders and roofers to facilities managers and contractors. While these tasks are essential, they come with significant risks! Falls from height remain one of the leading causes of work-related injuries in the UK. So, how can you ensure safety, compliance, and efficiency on the job? It starts with using the right access equipment, understanding safety standards, and following best practices to protect yourself and your team. In this guide, we’ll share actionable safety tips, explore industry standards, and explain why choosing high-quality access solutions, like those manufactured by Lyte Ladders, is key to working safely at height. Understanding UK Ladder Safety Standards When working at height, using equipment that meets industry standards isn’t just important, it’s an essential safety requirement. Here are the key UK standards you need to know: EN131 : The European standard for ladders, covering professional and non-professional use ( BS EN131 is the British version which came into force from 2019). Ladders compliant with EN131 are rigorously tested for strength, stability, and durability. BS2037/BS1129 : Now withdrawn and replaced by EN131, however, these standards are still trusted in certain trade applications. PASMA : Ensures the safe use of mobile towers through training and certification. HSE Guidance : Outlines best practices for ladder use and fall protection when working at height. Before starting a job, always check that your ladder or access equipment is compliant with these standards — your safety depends on it. Choosing the Right Access Equipment for the Job Using the right ladder or access solution for your specific task is critical for safety and efficiency. Here’s how to choose wisely: Step Ladders - Ideal for jobs that require stable, low-level access, such as maintenance or indoor tasks. Tip : Calculate your working height requirement to assess how many treads you need on your step ladder, excluding the top 3 treads. Extension Ladders - Perfect for jobs requiring access to greater heights, such as roofing and exterior work. Tip : Ensure the ladder is set at the correct angle (1:4 ratio) and extends at least 1 metre above the landing point for safe use. Roof Ladders - Specifically designed for safe access to pitched roofs with hooks and reinforced stiles for added security. Tip : Always secure roof ladders before use and avoid overloading them. Mobile Towers - A safe solution for tasks requiring extended periods of access at height, such as construction or refurbishment projects. Tip : Ensure proper assembly and always follow PASMA guidance for safe use. By selecting the correct equipment, you reduce risks and improve efficiency on-site. Safety Tips for Working at Height Here are practical steps to ensure your safety when working with ladders and access equipment: ✅ Inspect Your Ladder Before Use: Check for visible damage like cracks, worn feet, or bent rungs. Ensure all components, including hinges and locks, are functioning properly. ✅ Follow the Three-Point Contact Rule: Always keep two hands and one foot (or two feet and one hand) on the ladder at all times. ✅ Secure the Ladder: Tie off ladders to a secure point or use stabilisers to prevent slipping or movement. ✅ Set Up on a Stable Surface: Avoid soft or uneven ground, and never use ladders in adverse weather conditions. ✅ Don’t Overreach: Keep your belt buckle between the stiles, and reposition the ladder if needed. ✅ Use the Right Weight Load: Ensure the ladder you’re using can safely carry your weight, tools, and materials. ✅ Stay Trained and Informed: Invest in training, like The Ladder Association or PASMA -certified courses, to understand safe working practices at height. By following these steps, you can significantly reduce the risk of accidents and create a safer work environment. Why Lyte Ladders Are the Trade Professional’s Choice At Lyte Ladders, we’ve been manufacturing high-quality access equipment in the UK for over 75 years, supporting trade professionals with products they can trust. Here’s why our ladders stand out: ✔️ Built for Professionals : Our ladders and towers are designed specifically for trade and industrial use, combining strength, durability, and reliability. ✔️ Fully Compliant: Lyte products adhere to relevant safety standards, ensuring you can work with confidence. ✔️ UK-Made Quality: Manufactured in our Swansea-based factory, our products are tested rigorously to withstand daily professional use. ✔️ Sustainability Focus: We’ve introduced green aluminium and sustainable practices, ensuring our products are not only strong but eco-friendly. When it comes to working at height, don’t settle for less—choose Lyte for access solutions that prioritise your safety and efficiency. Safety Starts with the Right Equipment For trade professionals, working at height safely requires preparation, the right equipment, and an understanding of industry standards. By choosing high-quality, compliant ladders and following safety best practices, you can protect yourself and your team while getting the job done efficiently. At Lyte Ladders, we’re here to support you with access solutions built for the demands of professional use. 👉 Explore our range of professional ladders and towers here . Your safety is our priority — let’s keep you working at height confidently and securely.