|
Transportation Cabinet
KYTC ANNOUNCING NEW ENVIRONMENTAL AND CONSERVATION INITIATIVES IN CELEBRATION OF EARTH WEEK Cabinet Touts Renewable Fuels, Bio-diesel in Equipment, Bio-Diesel in School Buses & Recycling
FRANKFORT, KY (April 17, 2006) — The Kentucky Transportation Cabinet along with other state agencies celebrated Earth Week today by announcing environmental and conservation initiatives. This is the third year for the month-long, organized campaign in celebration of Earth Day.
“Kentucky state government is setting an example for the rest of the Commonwealth, from recycling initiatives to energy efficient cars in our reduced motor pool,” stated Governor Ernie Fletcher.
As part of the ceremony the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet announced four new initiatives which are currently being implemented throughout the Commonwealth. “The Cabinet is clearly taking a proactive stand to develop and initiate environmental and conservation initiatives throughout the cabinet,” said Secretary Bill Nighbert. “Earth Week is a great opportunity for this cabinet to review their practices and take action to make Kentucky a better place.”
These initiatives include:
Road to Recycling: KYTC currently recycles many construction and equipment products. The Division of Equipment C-1 Garage which services heavy-duty equipment annually recycles:
- 100 Vehicle/Equipment Batteries
- 1,700 Gallons of Used Oil
- 1,040 Oil Filters
- 6,500 Lbs. of Metal from Equipment Repairs
- 420 Gallons of Antifreeze
The 14 District Garages located throughout the Commonwealth recycle these materials as well, in addition to other scrap metal. Also, in 2005, the Cabinet re-galvanized and reused over 150,950 linear feet (531 tons) of guardrail. Additionally, the Cabinet sold 538 tons of scrap steel and aluminum, including guardrail not suitable for reuse, at a price of $99,085.
Renewable Fuels: By executive order, ethanol and bio-diesel is now the first choice of fuel for all state gasoline and diesel vehicles and equipment. To facilitate the use of ethanol and bio-diesel the Cabinet is working with Fleet One and the retailer network to be able to offer both as choices for state fleet vehicles and equipment.
Biodiesel in KYTC equipment: The Transportation Cabinet began using biodiesel in equipment in some districts in late 2004. Biodiesel usage in equipment will expand to all districts as biodiesel becomes available at retail outlets.
Biodiesel Storage Facility: Using Congestion Mitigation and Air Quality (CMAQ) funds, the Transportation Cabinet is supporting the construction of a 30,000 gallon biodiesel storage facility to be built in the Louisville area. This will greatly improve the distribution of biodiesel in the Louisville area. A similar facility is planned for the Northern Kentucky area later this year.
Biodiesel in School Buses: Using Congestion Mitigation and Air Quality (CMAQ) funds, the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet is supporting the use of biodiesel in school buses in six school districts. This project will result in an annual reduction of over 4000 tons of harmful emissions.
Kentuckians will join others across the world in celebrating Earth Day on Saturday, April 22. Spearheaded by the Environmental and Public Protection Cabinet, a number of state agencies, local governments, businesses and organizations have joined together to celebrate Earth Day in the Commonwealth. Some of these partners have organized environmental activities throughout the month of April while others are providing information and resources on protecting Kentucky’s environment.
This is the third year in a row for a month-long, organized campaign in celebration of Earth Day. Among activities planned are hikes, special events, college campus programs, environmental award presentations and demonstrations of new, environmentally friendly technology. Visit the state Earth Day Web site at www.earthday.ky.gov to learn more about Kentucky's Earth Day celebration.
###
|