E.P.A. recognizes Sonoma Co. for protecting air quality, fighting climate change with one of nation’s biggest hybrid vehicle fleets

SAN FRANCISCO - This week, the E.P.A. is honoring Sonoma Co. Fleet Operations and 6 other plans across the country for their work on clean air and climate initiatives. The 2015 Clean Air Excellence Awards recognize innovative state, local, tribal, and private sector programs that protect health and the environment, educate and serve their communities, and boost the economy.

Sonoma Co. Fleet Operations won in the Transportation Efficiency Innovations category for its Fleet Hybrid Electric and All Electric Vehicle Program, which has reduced fleet related greenhouse gas emissions by over 1,815 tons even though overall vehicle miles traveled increased by ten million miles over the past decade.

"Sonoma Co. can breathe easier with cleaner air and better protected health thanks to its hybrid fleet vehicle program," said Jared Blumenfeld, EPA's Regional Administrator for the Pacific Southwest. "The County's investment in hybrid electric and all electric vehicle technology has resulted in one of the biggest hybrid government fleets in the country."

Sonoma Co. has been a leader in transportation related emission reductions in California for in excess of 24 years. Starting in 1990 the Co. tested a prototype all-electric van in a fleet environment. In 2006 the Co. adopted a Climate Protection Action Project that established a target to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from its on-road fleet by 20 percent by 2010. The target was more aggressive than California's Global Warming Solutions Act of 2006 with a compliance date ten years sooner than the state. The hybrid fleet has reduced gasoline and diesel fuel usage by over 166,500 gallons while traveling over ten million miles since 2002. Sonoma Co. currently has 291 hybrid vehicles comprising over 35 percent of their fleet.

EPA's Clean Air Excellence Awards plan acknowledges and recognizes both individuals and organizations that have undertaken the risks of innovation, served as pioneers in their fields, advanced public understanding of air pollution and improved air quality. Entries are judged by E.P.A. and the Clean Air Act Advisory Committee, and winners will be acknowledged at an awards ceremony in Washington, D.C. on April 21. More information: http://www.epa.gov/air/cleanairawards/index.html

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