As Hunter Apparel Solutions Limited (Hunter) and industries worldwide work towards more sustainable solutions, it’s essential to rethink the way we clean and maintain protective equipment. At Hunter we are committed to leading the charge in eco-friendly PPE decontamination—which is why we are proud to be the first in the UK to introduce LCO₂ decontamination technology through our Deconology® service. 

Traditional cleaning methods for firefighter PPE often come with hidden environmental costs such as excessive water usage, harmful chemical release and high energy consumption. LCO₂ decontamination offers a superior, environmentally responsible alternative that not only protects firefighters but also safeguards the planet. 

The Environmental Challenges of Traditional Cleaning 

While water-based washing has been the industry standard for PPE cleaning, it comes with significant drawbacks: 

• High Water Consumption 💧 – Traditional washing methods require millions of litres of water annually, straining an already overburdened freshwater supply. 

• Chemical Contamination ☣️ – Many detergents and solvents release harmful chemicals into wastewater, polluting rivers and oceans. 

• Energy-Intensive Processes ⚡ – Heating water, running industrial washers, and treating wastewater require vast amounts of energy, increasing carbon emissions. 

• Fabric Degradation 🧥 – Repeated exposure to hot water and harsh chemicals can weaken PPE materials, reducing their lifespan and effectiveness. 

With climate change and resource conservation becoming global priorities, industries must embrace smarter, more sustainable solutions—and that’s where Deconology® comes in. 

What Makes LCO₂ Decontamination a Sustainable Choice? 

At Hunter we are transforming the way PPE is cleaned through Deconology® a waterless, chemical-free, and energy-efficient cleaning process. 

Here’s why it’s the most sustainable cleaning option for your fire services: 

✅ No Water Waste – Unlike traditional washing, LCO₂ cleaning requires no water, preserving vital resources.
✅ No Chemical Runoff – No harmful detergents or solvents are released into the environment.
✅ Low Energy Consumption – The process operates at low temperatures, reducing carbon emissions.
✅ Recycled CO₂ – The CO₂ used in the process is repurposed from industrial emissions, contributing to a circular economy.
✅ Extended PPE Lifespan – Unlike water washing, LCO₂ decontamination preserves fabric integrity, meaning PPE lasts longer and requires less frequent replacement. 

Why Firefighter PPE Needs Better Decontamination 

Firefighters face constant exposure to hazardous contaminants, including: 

🔥 Carcinogens & Toxins – PAHs, PFAS, and heavy metals from fire scenes.
🦠 Biological Hazards – Bloodborne pathogens and other contaminants from emergency response incidents. 

Traditional washing methods struggle to fully remove these harmful substances, leaving dangerous residues behind. Worse still, contaminated wastewater can reintroduce these toxins into the environment. 

The Future of PPE Cleaning is Here and available to the UK and Ireland now through Hunter. 

Deconology® LCO₂ decontamination is the next step in PPE care, offering superior protection for firefighters and the environment. 

At Hunter, we are proud to be the first in the UK to offer this revolutionary technology. By implementing Deconology®, fire and rescue services can ensure their teams stay safer, healthier, and better protected—while also making a positive impact on the planet. 

Want to see our amazing technology for yourself? Contact our team today to learn more 📥 

#PPEInnovation #LCO2Decontamination #Sustainability #FirefighterSafety #EcoFriendlyCleaning #Deconology®