TMAF says trucking is getting greener
On the 45th anniversary of Earth Day last week, Trucking Moves America Forward (TMAF), the image and education movement representing all areas of the professional truck driving industry, is touting the progress the industry is making toward a more sustainable future, which includes adopting industry recommendations to reduce carbon emissions.
“Trucking is greener than ever, and small changes in driving habits can make a big difference in reducing greenhouse gas emissions and improving fuel efficiency. The industry is also taking advantage of new technologies to improve air quality and reduce the environmental impact on our nation’s roads and highways,” said Kevin Burch, co-chairman of TMAF and president of Jet Express, Inc.
Some of the many programs, efforts and technologies that trucking companies and drivers support include:
- Training that emphasizes fuel-saving driving techniques;
- Reducing wait times at loading and unloading docks to decrease engine idling;
- Advancing alternative-fueled vehicles and fuels;
- Lowering fuel consumption by reducing empty miles driven; and
- Promoting more efficient freight hauling and freight packaging practices.
“Professional drivers make choices which lead to a smaller carbon footprint every day. Habits like monitoring and scanning traffic to maintain an efficient speed and planning routes to avoid congestion are ingrained into a driver’s daily routine,” said Scott Grenerth, director of regulatory affairs at OOIDA.
