OTTAWA, (Oct. 22, 2004) — Natural Resources Canada is asking truck drivers not to sit still.

The government wants Canada’s drivers to join in the third annual Idle-Free Quiet Zone Campaign, taking place at 82 truck stops and other sites across Canada, from now until December 10, 2004.

The goal of the 10-week campaign, which was launched earlier this month in Brandon, Manitoba, is to educate the trucking industry about the harmful effects of unnecessary engine idling. Drivers are being asked to turn off their engines when parked in “quiet zones” and are receiving information on the effects of idling on noise levels, air pollution and fuel costs.

“Once again, the trucking sector is reaching out to its drivers to promote cleaner driving practices, and I congratulate them,” said R. John Efford, Minister of Natural Resources Canada, in a press release. “By following these practices, truckers will save energy and money, and do their part to address climate change.”

Truck drivers can reduce emissions and lower fuel and maintenance costs by changing operating practices and installing technologies that reduce the need to idle such as in-cab heaters and auxiliary power units, the government says.

Owners of Class 6, 7 and 8 trucks and buses licensed for commercial service are eligible to receive rebates for approved equipment purchased after August 12, 2003. For more information on the rebates, call 1 800 387-2000 toll-free or visit www.oee.nrcan.gc.ca/fleetsmart.