Use Cleaner Vehicles and Cleaner Fuels
Purchase the Cleanest and Most Fuel-Efficient Vehicles for Your Needs
Substitute Alternative Fuels in Existing Vehicles
Retrofit Existing Diesel Vehicles with Clean Technology
Require Contractors to Use Clean Vehicles and Equipment
Cleaner Vehicles and Cleaner Fuels:
Purchase the Cleanest and Most Fuel-Efficient Vehicles for Your
Why purchase cleaner, more fuel-efficient vehicles?
Cities and towns manage a fleet of vehicles, including buses, trucks, fire engines, police cars, and passenger vehicles, all of which contribute to air pollution and fuel consumption, ultimately leading to increased costs for residents.
When purchasing a new vehicle or replacing an old one, consider opting for eco-friendly options that offer better fuel efficiency and lower emissions Your choices may include hybrid-electric vehicles, gasoline or diesel cars with higher miles per gallon, or alternative fuel vehicles like compressed natural gas (CNG) and liquefied natural gas (LNG), which are known to produce less air pollution than traditional fuels This decision benefits not only the environment but also contributes positively to community health and your financial savings.
What are the benefits of “clean vehicle” purchasing?
Cleaner vehicles significantly reduce pollution by emitting fewer fine particles and toxic pollutants compared to diesel engines, which contribute to smog and haze Additionally, more fuel-efficient vehicles consume less fuel, resulting in decreased emissions from the tailpipe and a healthier environment.
Promoting a healthier community is essential, as vehicle exhaust can pose serious health risks, including respiratory issues and cancer Utilizing low-pollution vehicles significantly reduces exposure to harmful airborne chemicals, contributing to improved public health.
Don't let the higher initial price of fuel-efficient vehicles deter you Over time, the savings in fuel costs can significantly outweigh the upfront expense, making these vehicles a smart financial choice.
> You’ll set a good example By purchasing clean, fuel-efficient vehicles, you will set a good
Weston Public Schools is dedicated to investing in technology that maintains our community's unique character, reduces greenhouse gas emissions, and creates a healthier environment for current and future generations of children.
- Cynthia D Mahr, Director of Finance and Operations, Weston Public Schools
Over the last 35 years, the total number of vehicle miles traveled by
Americans has nearly doubled But, over this same time frame, air pollution from motor vehicle exhaust has actually decreased due to use of increasingly clean and fuel-efficient vehicles.
Replacing gasoline- powered vehicles with
CNG vehicles can substantially reduce the amount of air pollutants in exhaust, including a 66 percent reduction in greenhouse gas emissions.
Where has “clean vehicle” purchasing been successful?
Successful projects have been implemented in a number of urban, suburban, and rural
Commonwealth communities Here are just a few success stories:
Weston, MA, has made history as the first school district in the state to adopt natural gas-powered buses Thanks to a grant from the U.S Department of Energy, facilitated by the MA Division of Energy Resources (DOER) and Keyspan Energy, Weston was able to purchase two new compressed natural gas (CNG) buses at the same price as conventional diesel buses.
Brookline, MA has made a significant investment in sustainability by purchasing nine hybrid cars for its Health and Building Departments These new vehicles achieve nearly double the fuel efficiency of the ones they replaced, resulting in substantial annual savings on fuel costs Additionally, this initiative contributes to a reduction of approximately 4 tons of greenhouse gas emissions each year, highlighting the Town's commitment to environmental responsibility.
> Arlington, MA In 2002, Arlington’s Town
The Town has enacted a "Fuel Efficient Vehicle Purchasing" by-law, mandating the purchase of the most fuel-efficient vehicles that fulfill their intended purpose Consequently, the Town has replaced an SUV and a large sedan with smaller, more fuel-efficient cars and aims to explore further clean vehicle acquisitions as budget permits This initiative aligns with similar regulations adopted by other cities and towns across New England.
An excellent starting point is having your city or town formally commit—whether through by- law, policy, or other means—to purchasing cleaner and more fuel-efficient vehicles
Begin by assessing your vehicle inventory, documenting the purchase dates and estimating retirement timelines for each vehicle This data allows you to prioritize your research on the vehicles that will need replacement soonest.
Finally, educate yourself on vehicle purchasing options before making decisions You will want to consider many factors when purchasing a new vehicle, such as unique vehicle performance
Police vehicles typically have higher road usage and fuel consumption compared to other municipal vehicles By investing in cleaner police cars, cities can significantly decrease the air pollution generated by their fleet.
However, some police departments may be reluctant to consider alternatives that are perceived to sacrifice speed, acceleration, or interior space in patrol cars But there are solutions:
Many police departments across the country are adopting hybrid-electric cars to enhance their fleet These vehicles have demonstrated their effectiveness in various non-patrol and some patrol operations, making them a valuable addition to law enforcement.
Across various small and large cities in the nation, police departments are adopting CNG patrol cars by either converting existing vehicles or purchasing new CNG-powered models This shift significantly reduces air pollution per vehicle mile traveled, contributing to a cleaner environment.
> Other modes of transportation Not all police patrols must be conducted in motor vehicles Police departments across the
Commonwealth are replacing some vehicle patrols with bicycle and foot patrols,
Segway scooter patrols, and mounted horse patrols requirements, costs and benefits of different options, available funding sources, and proximity to refueling stations and maintenance facilities for alternative fuel vehicles
What are the keys to success?
When selecting vehicles for your fleet, it's essential to identify the most suitable technology for each specific application, such as police cars and fire engines, which often have unique performance, capacity, and durability requirements The priority should be to choose vehicles that are not only clean and fuel-efficient but also capable of fulfilling these specialized needs effectively.
When purchasing a new vehicle, it's essential to take your time and make an informed decision, as it will serve you for many years For additional support, refer to the resources provided at the end of this fact sheet, which include vehicle purchasing guides, fuel cost calculators, alternative fuel station locations, and other valuable tools.
What other strategies address clean, fuel-efficient vehicles?
Reduce Vehicle Idling
Launch an Idling Reduction Campaign
Retrofit Diesel Vehicles with Idling Reduction Technology
Launch an Idling Reduction Campaign
Why consider an idling reduction campaign?
Idling vehicles waste fuel, contribute to air pollution, and release harmful exhaust fumes, posing health risks to those nearby This issue is particularly pronounced in locations such as school parking lots, where numerous vehicles remain idle for extended periods.
Join the movement in the Commonwealth to eliminate unnecessary vehicle idling By encouraging drivers to turn off their engines while parked or waiting, your community can significantly reduce air pollution, enhancing the environment for living, shopping, learning, and recreation for all residents.
What are the benefits of a campaign?
> Reduction in greenhouse gases USEPA estimates that for each minute a car idles, it releases
Idling vehicles significantly contribute to carbon emissions, with 23 grams of carbon dioxide (CO2) produced per vehicle In Massachusetts, if just 10 percent of the 4.5 million private vehicles idle for 10 minutes daily, it would lead to an annual increase of 38,000 metric tons of CO2 in the atmosphere.
Reducing vehicle idling can significantly improve community health by minimizing exposure to harmful pollutants in exhaust emissions, which are linked to respiratory issues and cancer Implementing an idling reduction campaign is essential for creating a healthier environment for everyone.
Reducing vehicle idling not only conserves fuel but also significantly cuts costs For instance, a fleet of 10 school buses can experience substantial savings through an idling reduction campaign, as every minute spent idling translates to wasted fuel and increased expenses Implementing such initiatives can lead to impressive financial and energy savings for organizations.
20 minutes a day wastes more than $1,000 in fuel costs annually
Where have idling reduction campaigns been successful?
Successful campaigns are already in place in a number of urban, suburban, and rural
Commonwealth communities Here are just a few success stories:
Belmont, MA, has initiated a town-wide campaign to reduce vehicle idling, supported by a $1,500 grant from MassDEP The campaign features various materials such as road signs, handouts, decals, and fact sheets, and has garnered public endorsement from key town officials, including selectmen, the town manager, and the superintendent of schools.
“The campaign, which has increased awareness of the harmful effects of idling and reduced air pollution in Lenox, is a model for how a community can reduce air pollution.”
- Patriot Chapter of the Association for Commuter Transportation Award given to the town of Lenox, MA for its idling reduction campaign
In 2003, Lenox, MA, launched the “Idle Free” campaign, uniting volunteers and local officials to combat vehicle idling among residents and visitors Utilizing flyers, news articles, and signage, the campaign effectively conveyed its anti-idling message This initiative has since been recognized as a "national model" for successful idling reduction efforts.
Lexington, MA launched the "Idle Free Lexington" initiative by forming a steering committee composed of town officials, business owners, and residents This committee created an educational pamphlet focused on reducing vehicle idling, which was distributed to every homeowner in the town.
MassDEP has developed practical step-by-step guidance for communities to implement effective idling reduction campaigns, along with offering free training for school bus drivers and municipal employees to minimize unnecessary idling These campaigns can be cost-effective, primarily involving expenses for printing informational materials or placing metal signs in the area Funding sources are available to help cover these costs, and local volunteers can contribute to the effort.
Sources that provide implementation guidance and funding information are listed at the end of this fact sheet
What obstacles might you encounter?
Vehicle idling can be a habit that is hard to break However, several communities have proven that they can effectively reduce idling by doing the following:
> Lead by example Residents will likely be more receptive to your message if you first adopt idling reduction principles in your municipal operations, such as school bus transportation.
To ensure your outreach is impactful, craft messages that are clear and direct, appealing to a diverse audience The effectiveness of your communication will facilitate quicker dissemination of your message within the community and beyond.
Many individuals hold misconceptions about vehicle idling, such as the belief that it's essential to warm up a car by idling or that it's better to let the engine run instead of turning it off and on Your campaign can effectively debunk these myths and promote better practices for vehicle use.
Unnecessary Vehicle idling is illegal
Under Massachusetts General Law (Chapter 90, Section 16A), it is prohibited for individuals to operate the engine of a stopped motor vehicle unnecessarily for more than five minutes Exceptions exist for vehicles undergoing service, those making essential deliveries that require engine operation (like powering refrigerators), and vehicles needing to run engines for accessory functions (such as power lifts) Enforcement of this law is the responsibility of police officers, local boards of health, and other authorized officials.
Reducing unnecessary idling not only helps the environment but is also supported by the Massachusetts anti-idling law While some individuals may be resistant to altering their vehicle habits due to a dislike of being instructed, educating them about the legal implications and the positive impact of reduced idling can encourage a change in behavior Emphasizing these benefits can lead to a more eco-friendly community and compliance with the law.
What other strategies address vehicle idling issues?
Auxiliary heaters can be installed in school buses and trucks to minimize idling time, enhancing fuel efficiency and reducing emissions For further details, refer to the fact sheet titled "Retrofit School Buses with Auxiliary Heaters."
Where can you get more information?
> For guidance on launching successful idling reduction campaigns:
Refer to MassDEP’s Idling Reduction Toolkit, available at: http://www.mass.gov/dep/air/community/schbusir.htm
Consider Mississauga’s ten tips for a successful idling reduction campaign: http://www.mississauga.ca/portal/residents/idlefree
> For information on potential sources of funding or assistance:
For the latest information on recycling and environmental initiatives, it is essential to visit reliable sources Unfortunately, the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection's recycling webpage is currently unavailable Additionally, for funding opportunities related to clean school buses, the EPA provides valuable resources Lastly, the Federal Highway Administration offers insights into CMAQ programs that support environmental projects Always ensure to check these resources for the most accurate and updated information.
> To learn more facts about vehicle idling:
Read about some common misconceptions and realities at the following sites: http://www.epa.gov/cleanschoolbus/antiidling.htm#myths http://www.mississauga.ca/portal/residents/idlefree
Who can you speak to about idling reduction?
For questions about the Massachusetts law on vehicle idling and related outreach activities, contact Julie Ross from MassDEP at julie.ross@state.ma.us, or 617-292-5958.
Retrofit Diesel Vehicles with Idling Reduction Technology
What are idling reduction devices?
Design Your Community for Cleaner Air
Design Roads and Intersections to Encourage Pedestrian and Bicycle Use
Install Bicycle Racks or Bicycle Lockers
Design Your Community for Cleaner Air:
Sprawl consumes valuable open space, increases infrastructure costs for cities and towns, and leads to more cars on the road However, growth can occur without sprawl through the implementation of smart growth strategies.
Smart growth focuses on creating vibrant communities in central business districts, town centers, and areas near transit stations, while utilizing already developed spaces This approach combats urban sprawl, conserves open spaces, and minimizes vehicle usage, leading to lower pollution levels Key strategies within smart growth effectively reduce car dependency and promote sustainable urban living.
(1) Zoning Strategies Use zoning strategies to encourage pedestrian access to commercial areas
—for example, by creating mixed-use neighborhoods.
(2) Transit-Oriented Development Encourage growth in areas with access to public transit, thus reducing the need for residents to drive.
What are the benefits of smart growth?
Creating a cleaner environment is achievable by facilitating walking, cycling, and public transit options for residents When commuting becomes more accessible, individuals are likely to reduce their car usage, resulting in decreased air pollution.
Smart growth fosters a healthier community by minimizing motor vehicle trips, which in turn decreases harmful air pollutants in the environment By promoting walking and biking as viable transportation options, it encourages physical activity among residents, benefiting overall community health.
Smart growth strategies aim to reduce vehicle congestion by promoting denser, mixed-use developments and enhancing public transit options Unlike urban sprawl, which leads to longer motor vehicle trips and increased traffic, smart growth fosters more compact communities, resulting in fewer cars on the road and less overall congestion.
The revitalization of this area in Somerville has been significantly driven by the new station, enhancing connectivity to downtown Boston The development has led to the emergence of a vibrant community, featuring housing, shops, and convenient public transportation options As a result, Davis Square has transformed into a popular destination in its own right.
- Resident of Davis Square, Somerville
Approximately 44 acres of land in Massachusetts are lost to development every day, and most of this land is lost to low- density residential development.
> Open space preservation Effective smart growth strategies redevelop certain lands, like former industrial sites and abandoned historical structures, thus preserving open space and wildlife habitats for public enjoyment.
Where has smart growth been successful?
Successful projects have been implemented in a number of urban, suburban, and rural
Commonwealth communities Here are a few success stories that focused on reducing the number of vehicles on the road:
Davis Square in Somerville, MA, has transformed from a declining industrial area into a vibrant urban center through the collaborative efforts of city officials, residents, and businesses The Davis Square Action Plan promotes smart growth by encouraging mixed-use development and enhancing streetscapes Key improvements, including a new subway station, better sidewalks and crosswalks, and increased bicycle parking, have made it easier for residents to navigate the area without relying solely on cars.
> Mashpee, MA Developers created a mixed-use, pedestrian-friendly town center called
Mashpee Commons, located on the site of a former strip mall, has transformed into a vibrant community featuring a variety of retailers alongside affordable and market-rate housing Current projects aim to expand this development further, introducing additional mixed-use neighborhoods that will encompass residential units, office spaces, retail stores, civic buildings, and open areas for public use.
Canton, MA, is revitalizing its traditional town center by encouraging development near a commuter rail station This initiative involves revoking outdated zoning regulations that previously hindered mixed-use developments As a result, the town has seen the construction of 207 new residential units within a five-minute walk of the train station in just a few years.
The Hamilton Canal District project in Lowell, MA, is set to begin in 2007, aiming to develop a mixed-use residential area that links the Gallagher Terminal to downtown Lowell This initiative focuses on fostering a pedestrian-friendly environment, featuring buildings that engage with the sidewalks and incorporate active first-floor uses, alongside thoughtfully designed sidewalks, street trees, and lighting to enhance the urban experience.
Discover valuable resources to support the implementation of smart growth in your community By exploring case studies and model bylaws from other communities, you can gain insights and inspiration for effective strategies.
Explore various funding opportunities, such as the new state law that offers incentive payments for adopting "smart growth zoning districts." Additionally, the Commonwealth provides grants and loans for projects located within a quarter mile of public transit facilities.
Sources that may help you implement smart growth are listed at the end of this fact sheet
What are the keys to success?
To achieve successful smart growth, it is essential to plan ahead by utilizing master plans, community development plans, and transportation plans as foundational tools Engaging the public throughout the planning process increases the likelihood of success, as many successful initiatives arise from collaborative efforts among public officials, residents, and businesses.
Use a mix of smart growth techniques One technique alone won’t solve the problem of sprawl, but a comprehensive plan will go a long way.
What other strategies can improve air quality in your community?
Smart growth promotes alternatives to car travel, encouraging residents to walk, bike, or use public transit Additional strategies to support this initiative are detailed in the fact sheets titled “Design Roads and Intersections to Encourage Pedestrian and Bicycle Use.”
To address the challenges of urban sprawl, it's essential to implement multi-use trails and encourage new developments to participate in a Transportation Management Association (TMA) This collaboration aims to decrease vehicle traffic and promote alternative commuting options For more information on enhancing commuter choices in the community, refer to the article, “Develop a Partnership to Expand Commuter Options throughout the Community.”
Where can you get more information?
> For more information on smart growth, technical guidance, and information on potential sources of funding or assistance:
Visit the Web site for the Massachusetts Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs and search for “smart growth” and “transit-oriented development”: http://www.mass.gov/ envir
Download the “Smart Growth Toolkit” from the Massachusetts Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs: http://www.mass.gov/envir/sgtk.htm
Consider resources developed by the U.S Environmental Protection Agency: http://www.epa.gov/smartgrowth
Visit the transit Oriented Development Web site: http://www.transitorienteddevelopment.org
Who can you speak to about smart growth?
> Call Kurt Gaertner, Director of Sustainable Development with the Massachusetts Executive
Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs, at 617-626-1154.
> Consult with the Massachusetts Department of Housing and Community Development
(DHCD), a statewide agency that provides information and financial assistance to cities and towns on development issues, smart growth planning, and affordable housing: http://www.mass.gov/dhcd
Involve Your Community
Reach Out to Residents and Businesses
Designate or Hire a Transportation Manager
Reach Out to Residents and Businesses
Why reach out to the community?
In recent years, Americans have grown more aware of environmental issues and are eager to contribute to reducing air pollution Despite this awareness, many individuals remain unaware of straightforward actions they can take to enhance air quality.
By reaching out to your community, you can educate residents on how they can join community-wide efforts to reduce air pollution from transportation sources Remember, knowledge is power!
What information can you offer to the community?
Air pollution from transportation is a critical issue that affects both the environment and human health Motor vehicle exhaust contains harmful pollutants that can harm lung function, worsen conditions like asthma, and potentially increase cancer risk Additionally, these emissions contribute to serious environmental problems such as smog, acid rain, and climate change By making small adjustments in daily activities, individuals can significantly enhance air quality for the benefit of all.
To help reduce transportation-related air pollution, residents can adopt several effective strategies Here are ten actionable ways to make a difference: carpooling to minimize the number of vehicles on the road, using public transportation for daily commutes, biking or walking for short trips, maintaining vehicles to ensure they run efficiently, supporting local initiatives that promote clean energy, opting for electric or hybrid cars, reducing unnecessary trips by planning errands, encouraging remote work to decrease commuting, advocating for bike lanes and pedestrian-friendly infrastructure, and participating in community clean-up events By implementing these measures, individuals can significantly contribute to cleaner air and a healthier environment.
When replacing your old vehicle, opt for a "low emissions" model to significantly decrease air pollutants Choosing a hybrid or an alternative fuel vehicle will further minimize harmful exhaust emissions, contributing to cleaner air.
Reducing the number of trips you take in your vehicle can significantly lower air pollution levels By leaving your car at home just one day a week, you could cut vehicle exhaust emissions by up to 15 percent Additionally, consider consolidating errands to further minimize your driving.
To effectively reduce total community-wide emissions, city governments must prioritize community engagement, as city-owned facilities and fleets account for only about 2 percent of emissions, while the community contributes approximately 98 percent.
- Program Officer at the International Council for Local Environmental Initiatives (ICLEI)
Every gallon of gasoline saved keeps 20 pounds of carbon dioxide out of the atmosphere.
Through motor vehicle use, home energy use, and other activities, the average American generates about 20,000 pounds of greenhouse gases each year
To enhance your vehicle's performance and longevity while also improving gas mileage and reducing air pollution, it is essential to keep your automobile well-tuned and properly maintained Adhering to the manufacturer's maintenance guidelines not only boosts efficiency but also increases resale value Key practices include regularly tuning the engine, using the appropriate motor oil, and frequently replacing the air filter.
To enhance your vehicle's performance and safety, check your tire pressure weekly and maintain it at the recommended levels Properly inflated tires not only reduce wear but also improve fuel efficiency, potentially increasing gas mileage by over 3 percent.
To reduce vehicle pollution, practice smart driving habits Aggressive driving and speeding can significantly decrease fuel efficiency, potentially reducing gas mileage by up to one-third By maintaining a smooth driving style and adhering to speed limits, you can minimize emissions Additionally, avoid idling, as it contributes to pollution without advancing your journey.
To enhance fuel efficiency and reduce air pollution, it's essential to drive with a lighter load Carrying unnecessary weight in your vehicle, such as an extra 100 pounds in your trunk, can decrease gas mileage by up to 2 percent By minimizing the weight you transport, you can significantly improve your fuel economy.
Opt for walking, biking, or using public transit instead of driving whenever possible By choosing these alternatives, you not only cut down on motor vehicle emissions for every mile you skip driving, but you also enjoy the health benefits of exercise.
Starting a carpool can significantly reduce air pollution and save money while providing a break from the stress of driving By partnering with someone and taking turns behind the wheel, you contribute to fewer single-occupancy vehicles on the road, making a positive impact on the environment.
Consider telecommuting if possible, as it helps save on fuel costs, decreases air pollution, and reduces traffic congestion Collaborate with your employer to explore effective ways to work from home.
Share these valuable tips with your co-workers, friends, and family to reduce transportation-related air pollutants The greater the number of people informed, the more significant impact you can create on improving air quality.
Residents have various strategies to minimize air pollution from transportation sources, which can be customized to fit the unique needs of their community It is crucial to prioritize education, as increased awareness empowers individuals to implement changes in their daily lives, ultimately contributing to cleaner air for all.
How can you share this information with your community?