News Releases from Region 09
EPA honors Sonoma County for protecting air quality, fighting climate change with one of nations largest hybrid vehicle fleets
SAN FRANCISCO - This week, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency is honoring Sonoma County Fleet Operations and six other projects across the country for their work on clean air and climate initiatives. The 2015 Clean Air Excellence Awards recognize innovative state, local, tribal, and private sector programs that protect health and the environment, educate and serve their communities, and boost the economy.
Sonoma County Fleet Operations won in the Transportation Efficiency Innovations category for its Fleet Hybrid Electric and All Electric Vehicle Program, which has reduced fleet related greenhouse gas emissions by over 1,815 tons even though overall vehicle miles traveled increased by 10 million miles over the past decade.
"Sonoma County can breathe easier with cleaner air and better protected health thanks to its hybrid fleet vehicle program," said Jared Blumenfeld, EPA's Regional Administrator for the Pacific Southwest. "The County's investment in hybrid electric and all electric vehicle technology has resulted in one of the largest hybrid government fleets in the country."
Sonoma County has been a leader in transportation related emission reductions in California for more than 24 years. Starting in 1990 the County tested a prototype all-electric van in a fleet environment. In 2006 the County adopted a Climate Protection Action Plan that established a target to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from its on-road fleet by 20 percent by 2010. The target was more aggressive than California's Global Warming Solutions Act of 2006 with a compliance date 10 years sooner than the state. The hybrid fleet has reduced gasoline and diesel fuel usage by over 166,500 gallons while traveling over 10 million miles since 2002. Sonoma County currently has 291 hybrid vehicles comprising over 35 percent of their fleet.
EPA's Clean Air Excellence Awards program recognizes and honors both individuals and organizations that have undertaken the risks of innovation, served as pioneers in their fields, advanced public understanding of air pollution and improved air quality. Entries are judged by EPA and the Clean Air Act Advisory Committee, and winners will be recognized at an awards ceremony in Washington, D.C. on April 21. More information: http://www.epa.gov/air/cleanairawards/index.html