UPS Completes Clean Diesel Projects Supported by EPA Grant Awarded to Leonardo Academy
MADISON, Wisc., February 23, 2016 /3BL Media/ – United Parcel Service Inc. (UPS) recently completed the diesel emissions reduction improvements of six trucks supported by the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) 2014-2015 Region 6 Grant. The grant was facilitated by Leonardo Academy, a Wisconsin nonprofit organization that supports Clean Diesel improvement projects, among other sustainability initiatives.
Specifically, Leonardo Academy facilitated funding to replace six, Class 8 conventional trucks with six, Class 8 trucks that run on renewable compressed natural gas (CNG) in Texas. As a result of the improvements, approximately 4,529.88 tons of carbon dioxide, 85.38 tons of nitrogen oxide, and 4 tons of particulate emissions will be reduced.
Reducing emissions from diesel engines is currently one of the most important air quality challenges facing the country. Even with the EPA's more stringent heavy-duty highway and non-road engine standards set to take effect over the next decade, millions of diesel engines already in use will continue to emit large amounts of nitrogen oxides, particulate matter, and air toxins, which contribute to serious public health problems. This EPA grant program provides great incentives that accelerate the reduction of emissions from existing diesel engines.
“We are extremely proud to receive this grant and to use it to support this UPS truck upgrade project,” stated Michael Arny, Leonardo Academy President. “Leonardo Academy is dedicated to developing sustainability strategies for companies and organizations that employ environmental and social equity strategies to drive economic success. We believe that our extensive experiences in helping organizations understand, quantify, manage, and report their overall sustainability will help enhance the goals of our partners locally, as well as on a regional and national basis.”
UPS is a global leader in logistics, offering a broad range of solutions including transportation packages and freight, facilitating international trade, and deploying advanced technology to more efficiently manage the business world. The company is committed to operating more sustainably—for customers, the environment and the communities they serve worldwide.
Upcoming Grant Opportunities
Public and private organizations owning diesel fleets and equipment (transportation, fueling stations, agriculture and construction) are invited to sign up to be considered for inclusion in Leonardo Academy proposals for future funding opportunities. Please contact Maren Meyers, Outreach and Project Coordinator, at tel: (608) 280-0255 or email: maren@leonardoacademy.org.
About Leonardo Academy
Mission Statement
Leonardo Academy is a charitable 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing sustainability by leveraging innovative tools and information to motivate the competitive market. We develop integrative sustainability solutions designed to enhance the environmental stewardship, social responsibility, and economic prosperity of organizations, corporations, and individuals. We see a world filled with sustainable opportunities that can transform the way we live today and ensure the prosperity of future generations.
