Republic Services has the addition of 16 compressed natural gas (CNG) solid waste collection trucks to its fleet serving customers throughout the greater Portland area. The CNG trucks replace older diesel powered trucks, and bring the total number of natural gas vehicles operated by Republic Services in Oregonto 35.
"Everything we do is for our customers and for the environment," said Mike Huycke, Area President of Republic Services. "Our growing fleet of natural gas powered collection trucks enables us to offer cleaner and quieter operations in the communities we serve. They also represent our commitment, as a large vocational fleet operator, to reducing carbon emissions whenever possible, and doing our part to help preserve the natural beauty of Oregon for future generations."
According to the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), each new CNG collection truck deployed is equivalent to planting over 600 mature trees annually. Based on EPA calculations, the carbon emissions reduction benefits from Republic's CNG powered fleet in Oregon is equivalent to planting 21 000 mature trees per year.
"Republic Services' collection truck fleet conversion to CNG supports both national and regional goals for addressing sustainability and climate change, while contributing to cleaner air for area residents," said Tim Knapp, Mayor of Wilsonville.
In metropolitan Portland, Republic has approximately 90 employees who serve roughly 20 000 residential and 1200 commercial customers. Republic operates eight hauling locations, three transfer stations, two recycling centres, one composting facility, and one landfill in the state, as well as two CNG fuelling stations to support its expanding Oregon-based fleet.
Nationwide, Republic Services operates a fleet of approximately 2500 CNG vehicles and 38 natural gas fuelling stations. Republic's CNG powered fleet helps to save roughly 18 million gal./y of diesel fuel. Approximately one third of all replacement vehicles purchased by Republic last year were CNG powered vehicles.
In 2015, Republic Services was among the top companies recognised by Carbon Disclosure Project (CDP), a leading international non-profit organisation dedicated to measuring and disclosing environmental information. Known as the Blue PlanetTM sustainability initiative, Republic is defining its approach to environmental responsibility through reduced emissions from operations, materials management, safety, community engagement, and employee growth opportunities.
Adapted from press release by Francesca Brindle