Introduction

Diesel engines carry millions of children to school each day, power the movement of goods, help produce the food that we eat, help construct the buildings in which we live and work, and help build the roads on which we travel. While diesel engines provide mobility and are critical to the nation's economy, exhaust from diesel engines contains pollutants that negatively impact human health and the environment.

Diesel engines are a major source of pollution. Specifically, they emit particulate matter (PM); nitrogen oxides (NOx)—which contribute to the production of PM2.5, ground-level ozone, or smog; hydrocarbons (HC); and, air toxics. These pollutants contribute to poor air quality in Utah and can cause serious health problems, especially for children, the elderly, and the chronically ill.

Fortunately, many cost-effective solutions are available today that can dramatically reduce pollutants from diesel exhaust. The Utah Division of Air Quality established the Utah Clean Diesel Program to promote diesel emission reduction strategies.

The Utah Clean Diesel Program has awarded over $5.4 million in State and federal grants to help 32 small businesses and 30 school districts purchase cleaner and more fuel efficient equipment for their operations. So far the program has reduced emissions by over 25,000 tons and saved over 1.3 million gallons of diesel fuel over the life of the fleets. This is nearly $5 million worth of fuel savings.

The Utah Clean Diesel Program continues to evolve, with awards of over $1.3 million in new grant funds and partnerships with a variety of industries to provide cleaner and more efficient transportation and equipment alternatives to Utah communities. Industry partners have committed to match the new grant funds with nearly $1.5 million.

The collaboration between State and federal agencies, county and municipal governments, community and non-profit organizations, and industry groups to make these projects successful is a demonstration of the commitment being made to help alleviate the unique air quality challenges we face in Utah and encourage energy- and emission-reduction options that support economic development for small businesses.

What's Happening

Accomplishments

Do you Have Projects to be Considered for Funding?

The Utah Clean Diesel Program is looking for partners to replace, repower, or retrofit diesel equipment that is operating in nonattainment areas within the state.

Contact

Lisa Burr—Mobile Sources and Transportation Section
Phone: 801-536-4019