+44 (0)333 202 6800Case Study: Zest Eco Deploys High Recycled-Content Plaswood Fencing Across EV Charging Network
Executive Summary
Zest Eco – one of the UK’s fastest-growing EV charge point operators – required a fencing solution that aligned with its sustainability objectives while performing reliably in demanding urban environments.
Traditional timber fencing required ongoing maintenance, creating operational burden and limiting long-term efficiency.
Working collaboratively with Amcor’s Plaswood team, Zest deployed a bespoke fencing system manufactured from at least 95% recycled plastic*.
The result: a fast-install, long-life and low-maintenance fencing solution now rolled out across multiple Zest EV charging sites nationwide.
About the Client
Zest Eco is a Certified B Corp dedicated to making EV charging accessible, reliable and environmentally responsible. The company partners with local authorities, major brands and public destinations to deliver a national network of unattended charging facilities.
With rapid growth, a focus on responsible infrastructure, and high standards for customer experience, Zest requires durable solutions designed for long service life and reduced maintenance.
The Challenge
As Zest accelerated the rollout of its community charging locations, wooden fencing presented recurring issues:
- Frequent cleaning requirements.
- Weather-related deterioration.
- Vulnerability to vandalism - particularly in busy urban sites.
These ongoing maintenance needs increased operational demands and diverted resources from network expansion.
Zest sought an alternative designed for extended service life, reduced maintenance requirements and consistent site presentation without regular repainting or repair.
The Solution
Amcor’s Plaswood team collaborated closely with Zest’s designers, trialling prototypes and refining a fencing system tailored specifically to EV infrastructure requirements.
The final solution used Plaswood Tongue and Groove boards – manufactured from at least 95% recycled plastic* – fitted into concrete posts for efficient installation and consistent site presentation.
- Recycled plastic boards designed for durability, weather resistance and resistance to graffiti.
- Fast-fit panels enabling efficient on-site assembly with minimal disruption.
- Low-maintenance design, eliminating the need for repainting, staining or rot-related repairs.
- Integrated site solution, including matching gates to maintain visual consistency across each charging location.
Plaswood also provided installation guidance and training materials to support contractor adoption and ensure consistent deployment during the national rollout.
*Recycled content percentage may vary by product specification.
The Results
The collaborative solution enabled Zest to scale its charging network more efficiently, delivering several key benefits:
Faster site deployment, supporting national expansion.
- Reduced ongoing maintenance requirements, enabling teams to focus on network growth.
- Consistent site appearance in areas exposed to high footfall and adverse weather conditions.
- Use of high recycled-content materials, supporting Zest’s sustainability objectives.
- Plaswood’s durability and minimal upkeep requirements are designed to help reduce lifecycle maintenance demands compared to traditional timber alternatives.
Key Takeaways
- Recycled plastic fencing provides a long-life, low-maintenance alternative to traditional timber in demanding urban environments.
- Collaboration between Zest and Plaswood resulted in a scalable panel system suitable for multi-site rollout.
- Materials incorporating recycled content can support sustainability objectives while delivering operational durability.
- Durable fencing solutions can contribute to more efficient deployment of EV infrastructure.
Looking to enhance your infrastructure with durable, low-maintenance materials?
Contact the Plaswood team to explore bespoke recycled-plastic solutions for your next project.
Need more information?
Our team is here to help you find the solution. Get in touch and we'll answer your questions.
