The cost of clean air

Nov. 1, 2007
The 2007 EPA emission standards have set into motion a push and pull between fleet owners, who are trying to make sure new standards don't economically damage their business, and the environmental community, which aims to ensure all engines run cleaner. One of the challenges fundamental to this issue is that the truck industry is motivated by profitability, and retrofitting doesn't give you freedom

The 2007 EPA emission standards have set into motion a push and pull between fleet owners, who are trying to make sure new standards don't economically damage their business, and the environmental community, which aims to ensure all engines run cleaner.

“One of the challenges fundamental to this issue is that the truck industry is motivated by profitability, and retrofitting doesn't give you freedom from tolls or other financial benefits,” notes Allen Schaeffer, executive director of the Diesel Technology Forum. “The Clean Air Act doesn't have the authority to make manufacturers do anything.”

That is true in 49 of the 50 states, but California has been a noteworthy exception to the rule. By invoking state health and safety codes, California has required 100% of diesel fuel imported and produced in the state to be ultra-low-sulfur diesel (ULSD) since June 1, 2006; the rest of the country has until June 1, 2010 to comply.

The environmental community has continued their efforts to make the trucking industry more energy-efficient through SmartWay, a federal initiative focused on clean air solutions that can be implemented without adversely affecting a company's bottom line.

SmartWay's website describes the program as “a voluntary partnership between various freight industry sectors and EPA that establishes incentives for fuel efficiency improvements and greenhouse gas emissions reductions. By 2012, this initiative aims to reduce between 33- and 66-million metric tons of carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions and up to 200,000 tons of nitrogen oxide (NOx) emissions per year.

While it's unlikely that fleets will voluntarily fully retrofit their engines, the early success of the SmartWay program, with UPS and Fed Ex among the hundreds of companies involved, is an indication fleets are becoming aware they can clean the air without emptying their pockets.

About the Author

Justin Carretta

Sponsored Recommendations

Tackling the Tech Shortage: Lessons in Recruiting Talent and Reducing Turnover

Discover innovative strategies for recruiting and retaining tech talent in the trucking industry at our April 16th webinar, where experts will share insights on competitive pay...

Stop Sweating Temperature Excursions

Advanced chemical indicators give you the peace of mind that comes from reliable insights into your supply chains. Compromised shipments can be identified the moment they arrive...

Stop Sweating Temperature Excursions

Advanced chemical indicators give you the peace of mind that comes from reliable insights into your supply chains. Compromised shipments can be identified the moment they arrive...

How Electric Vehicles Help You Prolong the Life of Your Fleet

Before adopting electric vehicles for commercial/government fleets, prioritize cost inquiries. Maintenance is essential; understand the upkeep of EV fleets. Here’s what you need...

Voice your opinion!

To join the conversation, and become an exclusive member of FleetOwner, create an account today!