ODOT Snow Plows Receive Green Fleets Status
The Ohio Department of Transportation was awarded one of the state's first "Ohio Green Fleets" certifications.
Officials from Clean Fuels Ohio, Ohio Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and Ohio Air Quality Development Authority, awarded the Ohio Department of Transportation (ODOT) one of the state's first "Ohio Green Fleets" certifications. Over the last eight months, nearly half of the dump trucks and snow plows ODOT uses for combating ice and snow have become "Green Fleets" certified. In District 12 (Cuyahoga, Lake and Geauga counties) alone, 74 trucks have been "Green Fleets" certified.
"This is a great start. Our ‘Go with Green' initiative is meant to take our efforts to the next level," said ODOT Director Jolene M. Molitoris, who expects the remainder of ODOT's snow plow fleet to be certified by the end of the year. Since the transportation sector is a significant contributor to greenhouse gas emissions, it was in this area where the greatest impact could be made. The increased use of biodiesel was one answer. Because it works with existing diesel engines, biodiesel offers an immediate and seamless way to transition existing diesel vehicles into a cleaner burning fleet. In addition, biodiesel contains no sulfur or aromatics and results in substantial reduction of unburned hydrocarbons, carbon monoxide and particulate matter when used in diesel engines. Biodiesel is a renewable fuel and can be made from domestic resources which significantly reduces harmful emissions, helps Ohio's economy and reduces dependency on imported petroleum.
The next time you see one of the large white snow plow trucks travelling down the interstate, it may be a little greener than you think. Besides the use of biodiesel, ODOT has reduced idle time on its fleet and all new equipment purchases must meet strict emission guidelines. While the ODOT Business Plan reflects Molitoris' push to become good stewards of the environment, ODOT will continue to push for more and better ways to accomplish the goal of becoming a "green" leader in the nation.
For more information, visit www.dot.state.oh.us.