UCAIR Blog

Partner Spotlight- Waste Management

Partnership is key to the success of our mission here at the Utah Clean Air Partnership (UCAIR), it is even in our name. We love working with and identifying businesses and partners that are working hard to be part of the solution in air quality. In the words of our Executive Director Thom Carter, in our efforts to clean the air there are no perfect answers, but there are practical solutions. When individuals and organizations identify practical solutions and take steps to help our community, they are showing their commitment to ensuring Utah is the best place to live, work and play.

The team at Waste Management of Utah has been serving Utahns for over 45 years. They are committed to creating a cleaner, greener environment. Waste Management has independently made the decision to invest in a fleet of high-tech trucks fueled by compressed natural gas to help improve air quality for current residents and future generations. Waste Management has also invested in infrastructure to support their alternative fuel fleet by installing a CNG fueling station at their West Jordan location.

These CNG trucks emit nearly zero particulate emissions, cut greenhouse gas emissions by 15% compared to diesel engines, and as an added bonus they are significantly quieter. Replacing one diesel truck with a CNG truck saves an average of 8,000 gallons of diesel fuel and 14 metric tons of greenhouse gases. To further conserve fuel and reduce emissions, the engines of these CNG trucks automatically turn off after five minutes of idling.

“We all want clean, healthy air and clear views of our beautiful community,” said Blake Leonelli, Waste Management representative. “Our 73 cleaner, quieter trucks will help us all breathe easier.”

UCAIR applauds what Waste Management is doing. They are leading the way and showing that being a friend to air quality is also a great business decision. We are proud to partner with Waste Management.