Are Bunded Oil Tanks Better for the Environment?

As environmental awareness continues to grow across the UK, more homeowners and businesses are re-evaluating how they store heating oil. One of the most common questions we’re asked at Oil Tanks Plus is whether bunded oil tanks are better for the environment than traditional single skin oil tanks. The short answer is yes — and in this article, we’ll explain why.

We’ll explore how bunded oil tanks help prevent pollution, how they support compliance with UK oil storage regulations, and why they’re increasingly considered the safest and most environmentally responsible option for oil storage.

 

What Is a Bunded Oil Tank?

A bunded oil tank (also known as a double skinned oil tank) is designed with two layers. The inner tank stores the oil, while the outer tank (the bund) acts as a protective barrier. If the inner tank leaks or fails, the outer layer captures the oil before it can escape into the surrounding environment.

This added layer of protection is the key difference between bunded tanks and single skin oil tanks, which have no secondary containment. You can learn more about how bunded tanks work and whether they are compulsory for your property in this detailed guide from Certas Energy.

The Environmental Risks of Single Skin Oil Tanks

Single skin oil tanks were once common, but they present a much higher environmental risk, particularly as they age. Some of the main concerns include:

  • Oil leaks and spills – Corrosion, impact damage or poor installation can cause oil to leak, contaminating soil and groundwater.
  • Water pollution – Escaped heating oil can reach nearby drains, streams or watercourses, causing long-term environmental damage.
  • Costly clean-ups – Environmental remediation following an oil spill can be extremely expensive and time-consuming.
  • Regulatory penalties – Failure to meet UK oil storage regulations can result in significant fines and enforcement action.

Oil spills from single skin tanks have caused serious harm to wildlife and ecosystems across the UK, making them an increasingly unsuitable option.

 

How Bunded Oil Tanks Protect the Environment

Bunded oil tanks are widely recognised as the most environmentally friendly oil storage solution. Their benefits include:

1. Secondary Containment

The outer bund is designed to hold at least 110% of the inner tank’s capacity, ensuring that leaks or overfills are safely contained.

2. Reduced Risk of Soil and Water Contamination

By preventing oil from escaping into the ground, bunded tanks help protect gardens, farmland, groundwater and nearby watercourses.

3. Improved Durability

Most modern bunded oil tanks are manufactured from high-quality plastic or steel, offering increased resistance to corrosion and impact damage.

4. Regulatory Compliance

Bunded tanks are fully aligned with UK oil storage legislation, making them the preferred choice for both domestic and commercial properties.

For a clear overview of the practical and environmental advantages, this article from ACE Plant highlights the top benefits of bunded fuel tanks:

https://www.aceplant.co.uk/news-media/top-7-benefits-of-bunded-fuel-tanks

 

UK Oil Storage Regulations and Potential Penalties

Under UK Oil Storage Regulations, oil tanks must be installed in a way that prevents pollution. In many situations — including new installations, replacement tanks and environmentally sensitive locations — a bunded oil tank is required by law.

Failure to comply can lead to:

  • Enforcement notices
  • Fines and legal action
  • Liability for clean-up and environmental restoration costs

Choosing a bunded oil tank significantly reduces the risk of non-compliance and demonstrates a responsible approach to environmental protection.

 

Choosing the Right Bunded Oil Tank

At Oil Tanks Plus, we supply a wide range of high-quality bunded oil tanks suitable for domestic and commercial use. Whether you need a compact tank for home heating oil or a larger solution for business use, we can help you find the right option.

Making an Eco-Friendly Oil Storage Choice

If you’re looking to reduce your environmental impact while protecting your property, a bunded oil tank is the clear choice. Not only do bunded tanks provide peace of mind and regulatory compliance, but they also play a vital role in preventing oil pollution and safeguarding natural resources.

 

Final Thoughts

Bunded oil tanks are significantly better for the environment than single skin tanks. By minimising the risk of leaks, preventing contamination and meeting UK oil storage regulations, they represent a responsible, future-proof investment.

If you’re considering upgrading your oil tank or need expert advice on the best solution for your property, contact Oil Tanks Plus today for a quote or friendly guidance from our experienced team.