THE new CESAR initiative, which is aimed at helping site managers and others to identify the engine emissions stage compliance of individual machines in environmentally sensitive areas, has reached a milestone with the launch of the prototype Emissions Compliance Verification (ECV) system. 

A JCB Hydradig became the first piece of plant to be fitted with the prototype ECV label at Plantworx 2019. Fixed alongside the standard CESAR triangle, this new version of CESAR provides an immediate visual check on compliance backed up by a scannable QR code. The service is specifically aimed at those charged with monitoring compliance with low-emission zone requirements.

The initiative is being developed as a response to the demand for an easy and reliable way to confirm the emissions category of construction equipment used within low-emission zones and green construction sites.

The ECV development team is evaluating feedback from the latest round of stakeholder consultations with a view to the full launch of the scheme later this year. 

Rob Oliver, chief executive of the CEA, said: "The ECV application for CESAR is the single biggest development since the scheme was launched as an anti-theft initiative in 2007. 

"With the introduction of low-emission zones and green construction sites, there is an urgent demand for the quick identification of the certified emission levels of machines brought onto sites."

The CEA also confirmed that, following the suspension of the Plant and Agricultural National Intelligence Unit (PANIU) earlier this year, it is looking forward to the formation of a new national police resource to coordinate the fight against plant theft and complement the work of the CESAR Network and that of the Combined Industries Theft Solutions group.