VICTORIA, B.C. — The government of B.C. has invested $500,000 towards greening the provinces 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.

Over the next three years, Green Fleets B.C. will help remove over 900 tonnes of smog-causing emissions and 200,000 tonnes of greenhouse gases from our air, B.C. Environment Minister, Barry Penner said yesterday. Thats the equivalent of taking 50,000 light-duty vehicles off the road – a key part of our governments plan to improve air quality in British Columbia.

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. Transportation causes 40% of the provinces greenhouse gas emissions. 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.

We are making great strides forward with green transportation initiatives that use new technologies like biodiesel, hydrogen, green taxis, or rapid buses, said Transportation Minister Kevin Falcon.

As part of the partnership between Green Fleet B.C. and E3 Fleet, the groups hope to see involvement in E3 Fleet to 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. The organizations will also work closely with the B.C. Trucking Association to promote the use of anti-idling equipment, aerodynamic devices and fuel-efficient tires. For more information on the program, visit www.greenfleets.ca.