Encirc, the UK’s leading glass container manufacturer and part of the Vidrala Group, has appointed Martin Doherty as Director of Energy Transition. His arrival marks a significant step forward as the company accelerates its strategy to work towards producing net-zero glass bottles at scale.
In this new and strategic leadership role, Martin will lead Encirc’s decarbonisation roadmap – accelerating its journey toward net-zero glass production and spearheading innovative energy projects across its operations.
Martin Doherty brings over a decade of leadership in sustainability, circular economy and energy strategy across industrial manufacturing, most recently holding the position of Centre Director for the Centre of Advanced Sustainable Energy.
Martin holds extensive experience in the design of a systems-based approach to executing decarbonisation initiatives, with a focus on renewable energy integration, low-carbon technologies, and operational efficiency. His recent roles have included senior positions in energy transition planning and execution, with a consistent emphasis on reducing carbon footprints.
With a career that has taken him from chemical and environmental engineering through to public policy, EU-funded projects, and most recently energy resource management, Martin brings a unique blend of technical expertise and strategic insight to the role.
Encirc continues to lead in sustainable glass manufacturing through forward-thinking decarbonisation projects:
- Hydrogen-Powered Furnaces: Encirc is planning to use ultra-low carbon furnaces at its Cheshire site from 2029 onwards. These will be fuelled by low-carbon hydrogen and electricity, supplied via the HyNet industrial cluster.
- Biofuel and Recycled Glass Trials: Encirc has previously trialled the use of ultra-low-carbon biofuels and 100% recycled glass in its Northern Ireland plant to create the most sustainable bottles in the world. Going forward Encirc is partnering with organisations with the intention of using low carbon bio-fuels to power its NI furnaces in the future
Martin Doherty, Director of Energy Transition at Encirc commented: “UK manufacturing now faces a pivotal moment, bold decisions must be made to embrace innovative technologies that will drive down emissions.
“I’m thrilled to be joining Encirc at such a transformative time, as the company leads the way in decarbonising glass bottle production.
“Glass is an essential, endlessly recyclable material, and I’m proud to be spearheading our energy transition strategy.”
Sean Murphy, Managing Director at Encirc commented: “We’re delighted to welcome Martin to the team. In a fast-moving global market, our focus remains on delivering on our carbon reduction targets.
“Martin’s expertise will be key to scaling our efforts and ensuring Encirc stays ahead of the curve as a leader in sustainable manufacturing.”
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