Transportation Industry Examining Alternative Fuels
Environmental concerns are nothing new in the 21st century, with all sectors looking for effective alternative means of not only accomplishing their specific tasks, but in a cost-effective and eco-friendly methodology. Utilizing technology to cut down costs (i.e.: overhead) is an easy yet effective way from saving money for both the company and the purchasing entity; DGD Hazmat, a 3PL company, and their on-demand digital solutions is an excellent example of this. With the trucking industry growing, regardless of a shortage of drivers, many are looking to invest in updated trucking technology. Particularly in physical assets, the sales of Class 8 natural gas fueled trucks and grants and/or incentives for those using alternative fuels are both expanding; the latter arriving by tax breaks and expanded legal documentation request deadlines.
“We are going to need more near-zero and zero-emissions trucks throughout the country in the near future,” said Joe Lyou, CEO of the Coalition for Clean Air and a member of the South Coast Air Quality Management District in California. “The national situation is pretty bleak.” He and other speakers addressed the 2018 Shippers Forum convened by independent engine maker Cummins Inc. at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Oct. 15-16. Roger Gilroy, from TransportationTopics.com, reports- "According to Lyou, more than one in three people in the United States live in a county that is in violation of the 2015 National Ambient Air Quality Standard for ozone, which at ground level is a harmful air pollutant. He noted that the Cummins Westport ISX12N natural gas engine on display at the event is certified to 0.02 gram per brake horsepower-hour, or 90% cleaner than Environmental Protection Agency’s 2010 engine emissions standard for nitrogen-oxide levels from trucks." 3PL companies, notably hazmat compliant providers, must take note of these figures and metrics.
