The Metropolitan Washington Council of Governments launched a three-week campaign Monday aimed at reducing vehicle idling
“Turn Your Engine Off” is designed to educate truck and bus drivers about the financial and environmental benefits of reducing idling times.
“This summer, there’s been increased attention to air quality across our region and nation, so this is the right time to call attention to simple steps that can be taken to reduce pollution, like reminding people to turn their engines off instead of idling them,” said Jennifer Desimone, air program chief at COG.
“Many drivers, especially those from outside of our region, may not be aware of local regulations on idling, not to mention the significant impact their actions can have on our environment and health,” she said in a news release.
When idling is reduced, drivers will avoid fines, save money, curb diesel emissions and improve public health, according to the release.
The campaign is part of the Council’s Clean Air Partners’ Ozone Action Month. Ozone smog tends to be worse during hot, summer months, according to the release.
According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, reducing unnecessary idling by a typical long-haul combination truck removes about nine metric tons of carbon dioxide, as well as other pollutants that produce unhealthy air.
In Maryland, drivers may be fined $500 if their engine idles for more than five minutes.
