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Special Funds Target Diesel Emission Reductions

Release Date: 04/02/2008
Contact Information: David W. Bryan, (913) 551-7433, bryan.david@epa.gov

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Environmental News

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

(Kansas City, Kan., April 2, 2008) - Organizations that are working to improve air quality can apply for grants which will help reduce diesel emissions in their areas.

EPA Region 7, in conjunction with the Blue Skyways Collaborative, has issued a Request for Proposal for more than $4 million in grants to help lower diesel emissions through a partnership with nonprofits and government agencies. The grants will go to programs and innovative technology that reduce diesel emissions, improve air quality, and protect public health.

"Reducing emissions from diesel engines is one part of the air quality challenges facing us," said John B. Askew, EPA Region 7 administrator. "This program offers another significant way for EPA to work with states and agencies to help meet air quality standards in their communities."

Grant applicants can propose projects that significantly reduce diesel emissions and use EPA-verified retrofit technologies, certified engine replacements or repowerings, and verified technologies that reduce long-duration idling and fuels. Eligible applicants are U.S. regional, state, local, tribal or port agencies whose proposed projects help reduce emissions and improve air quality in their jurisdictions. The Request for Proposal includes school districts, municipalities, metropolitan planning organizations, nonprofit organizations and institutions.

Private fleets contracted or leased for public purpose, such as private school buses, refuse haulers, or equipment at public ports are included. However, only eligible entities can apply directly to EPA for this funding (for example, a school district would apply and administer a project on behalf of a private school bus contractor).

The Blue Skyways Collaborative develops public-private partnerships to reduce diesel and energy related air emissions in a large part of the Central United States. The Collaborative is striving for cleaner air by promoting emission reductions related to non-road and agricultural equipment; on-road vehicles; fuels; air, water and rail ports; and energy efficiency/renewable energy.

Participation in the Blue Skyways Collaborative is open to both public and private entities in the 10-state region of Kansas, Nebraska, Missouri, Iowa, New Mexico, Texas, Louisiana, Oklahoma, Arkansas and Minnesota.