The Impact of Idling
An operating vehicle emits a range of gases from its tailpipe into the atmosphere, one of which is carbon dioxide (CO2), which is the principal greenhouse gas that contributes to air pollution. As a company that has thousands of vehicles on the road, Canada Cartage is making major strides to reduce idling times on our trucks, while reducing the impact on the environment.
Not only does idling impact the environment, but it also takes a toll on the trucks themselves. Unnecessary idling causes premature clogging of the diesel particulate filter (DPF), resulting in high cleaning or replacement costs.
Steps Canada Cartage has taken to reduce idling time:
- Educating our drivers to shut off the engine while waiting to load or unload. It’s the best way to reduce idling time, as this is when most idling occurs.
- Not idling to keep the cab warm or cool. Studies have proven that idling does not affect the speed of moderating coolant temperature.
- No idling during lunch or coffee breaks. It takes 12-14 hours for an engine to cool to outside temperatures, so idling during breaks is not necessary.
Canada Cartage aims to reduce the impact on climate change, air quality related health issues, greenhouse gas emissions, fuel consumption, and noise by reducing idle time. If we all do our part, we will all benefit.