Idling reduction makes business sense

Engine idling costs businesses money in wasted fuel and engine wear, and needlessly pollutes loading docks and other work sites with tailpipe exhaust. 

The trucking industry has analyzed the impact of idling on engines, both in terms of maintenance and engine wear costs.  According to industry estimates, idling costs the truck owner the price of almost one gallon of fuel each hour.¹

Thus, implementing an idling reduction program with your fleet will not only affect air quality, but can improve your bottom line as well. The benefits of idling reduction include:

• Overall fuel savings

• Longer engine life

• Longer time between oil and filter changes                       

• Improved air quality

• Less noise

• Healthier work environment (loading docks, work bays, etc.)

Idling impacts Long-duration truck idling Causes more oil and oil filter deterioration Increases the need for more oil and filter changes Lessens engine lifespan and hastens the need for engine rebuild Annually emits 11 million tons of carbon dioxide 180,000 tons of nitrogen oxides 5,000 tons of particulate matter And annually Consumes over one billion gallons of fuel Costs over $2 billion

Make your worksite a No Idle Zone

Idling reduction can occur through behavior, such as implementing fleet policies and conducting driver education campaigns, as well as through technology, which could include truck stop electrification and when feasible, installation of onboard idle governors.

To get free “No Idle Zone” signs for a worksite location, the Puget Sound Clean Air Agency considers:

• Your proposed site (such as fleet yards, loading docks, etc.) for effectiveness, impact
• Your commitment to post and maintain signage and conduct staff/driver education about idling reduction

To request sign(s) or discuss implementing a work-place idling reduction program, e-mail Amy Warren.