Republic Services has added 20 Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) solid waste and recycling trucks to its fleet serving customers throughout the greater Springfield, Missouri, area.
The CNG trucks replace older diesel-powered trucks, and bring the total number of CNG trucks operated by Republic throughout the state of Missouri to 119.
"We have a history of commitment to Springfield and the state of Missouri, and we are serious about reducing carbon emissions whenever possible," said Jeff Kintzle, area president of Republic Services. "This fleet addition represents a significant local investment in cleaner, safer and more efficient vehicles. It will also make a difference in preserving everything we love about the local environment for future generations."
Republic Services installed a new natural gas fueling station at its Springfield location to support its fleet of CNG powered trucks. One-third of the waste and recycling collection trucks serving the Springfield area are now powered by the domestic fuel source.
According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, each new CNG solid waste and recycling truck reduces carbon emissions by as much as 80 percent in comparison with older, diesel-powered trucks. In addition, each new CNG truck deployed is equivalent to removing five passenger vehicles from local roads for one year, or planting 600 mature trees.
Republic Services operates a fleet of more than 2,200 CNG vehicles and 38 natural gas fueling stations nationwide. Approximately 50 percent of all Republic vehicles purchased in 2014 are powered by this domestic fuel source.