Bentley Motors installs “living wall” at Crewe headquarters

Bentley Motors has installed a living wall at its Pyms lane site in Crewe.

The installation is designed to increase biodiversity as the company aims to become the world’s most sustainable luxury car maker.

The living wall, on the side of Bentley’s main production hall, is the first of its kind in South Cheshire and contains over 2,600 plants.

It includes 28 species of ferns, grasses and evergreens, all grown in the UK and selected to ensure the walls thrives throughout the year.

Each plant is individually potted, and the installation incorporates an automated watering system to ensure plants receive the right amount of water.

The installation of the living wall will also contribute towards Bentley’s aim to reduce its environmental impact.

Last year, Bentley’s factory site was awarded carbon neutral certification from the Carbon Trust.

Over the course of a year the plants in the wall are expected to produce around 40 kg of oxygen as well as helping to absorb heat, provide natural insulation and filter VOC toxins and dust.

The living wall will also attract and support local biodiversity.

Peter Bosch, Member of the Board for Manufacturing, said: “By installing the living wall we’re creating a living and breathing reminder to our colleagues, customers and all our visitors that sustainability sits at the heart of all of our operations here in Crewe.

“Since 2010, we’ve made our site carbon neutral and reduced energy consumption by 54 per cent, water withdrawal by 47 per cent and waste for disposal by 98 per cent, all per vehicle manufactured in Crewe.

“But our journey continues by looking for new ways to innovate our sustainability plans for the future.”