The Toronto Hydro-Electric System has begun a large-scale test of vegetable-based bio-diesel in more than 100 cars, trucks and vans as a first step to switching to 100 percent use of vegetable-based fuel, writes Monica Dobie.
The bio-diesel on trial is a mixture of 20 percent vegetable oil and 80 percent low-sulphur diesel. Selected vehicles will run on bio-diesel throughout the winter and, if the trial is successful, the fuel will then be used in all Toronto Hydro company vehicles with the aim of reducing harmful emissions.
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The utility’s initiative is the first large-scale vegetable-based fuel trial in Ontario. The project will use vegetable oil manufactured by local soy bean producers.
“Cars and trucks are the largest source of smog-causing pollutants in the greater Toronto area. One of our biggest clean air challenges is reducing vehicle fleet emissions,” said John Wellner, Air Programme Director of environmental group Pollution Probe.
“Because the health evidence against diesel is mounting rapidly, any initiatives that reduce the emissions associated with the use of this fuel must be commended,” he said.
Liam McCreery, Chair of the Ontario Soybean Growers said: “The use of biodiesel provides an excellent opportunity for Canadian agriculture to play an integral role in helping to alleviate the country’s growing urban smog problem.”
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