VICTORIA, B. C. –The government of B. C. has invested $500,000 towards greening the province’s fleets. The money will go towards the Green Fleets B. C. program, which aims to reduce emissions from vehicles of all kinds and improve air quality. Part of the program will entail expansion of the E3 Fleet program, which provides fleets with advice on how to improve fuel consumption and then grades them according to a ratings system. Through programs such as Green Fleets B. C. and E3 Fleet, the province is urging fleet managers to spec’ low-emission vehicles, choose the right vehicle for the job, adopt progressive engine technologies and use low-emission fuels. Proper vehicle maintenance, careful route planning and sound driving practices are also encompassed in the programs.

As part of the partnership between Green Fleet B. C. and E3 Fleet, the groups hope to see involvement in E3 Fleet grow to at least 50 green-rated fleets by 2010. The province also plans to encourage the use of biodiesel and hopes to have at least a 5% renewable fuel content in diesel by 2010. For more information on the program, visit www. greenfleets.ca. •