Green is Good.

BioDIESEL Fuels Parkview Transit
School Buses.

Parkview Transit has become the first school bus company in Ontario to run a biodiesel fuel blend in 30% of its school buses.

Over the next year, Parkview Transit will replace approximately 100,000 liters of diesel fuel with biodiesel, which is made from renewable resources such as soybean, corn and canola oils. It is the fastest growing alternative fuel in North America.

“Among our top priorities in making this decision,” said Jon Knowles, President of Parkview Transit, “were concerns those students riding school buses could be exposed to fuel emission levels higher than those who do not travel by vehicle to and from school.  And, as we are all too well aware, emissions from fossil fuels such as diesel contribute to air pollution, acid rain and global warming.”

By choosing a cleaner fuel alternative for many of its school buses, Parkview Transit will reduce harmful tail pipe emissions and visible smoke, providing a healthier environment for its young passengers, and also for its employees and the communities it serves.

Far Reaching Benefits
Natural Resources Canada on its website says:

Tailpipe GHG emissions are only very slightly lower using biodiesel over petrodiesel, however, over the life cycle – from growing oilseeds or collecting rendering animal waste through fuel production and use – pure biodiesel produces 60 to 100 percent fewer greenhouse gas emissions compared with petroleum diesel, depending on what oil or fat is used to make it.

A 20 percent blend of biodiesel with petroleum diesel (B-20) produces 12 to 18 percent fewer emissions, and a 2 percent blend (B-2) produces 1 to 2 percent fewer emissions. As well, by converting certain waste products into biodiesel, they are diverted from landfill sites where they may have produced methane gas, which contributes to climate change.

As this initial phase of the conversion of the Parkview Transit fleet progresses, other benefits are expected.  Reduced maintenance costs and less wear-and tear on the mechanicals of the buses themselves are envisioned.  This could offer economic benefits both to the Company and to its customers.  But the passengers are the paramount reason for the switch.

“Every school day, families and school boards entrust the safety of their children to us,” added Knowles, “and we take our company mandate – Carrying the Future – very seriously. Now, by pioneering this biodiesel program, we’re extending that mandate to benefit the broader community.”.