IdleAire Technologies Corp. and members of NATSO, the trade association representing truckstops and travel plazas, have partnered to eliminate nearly 72 million pounds of emissions from idling diesel trucks

and save more than 3 million gallons of diesel fuel thus far in 2007, according to numbers released by IdleAire.
Carbon dioxide, a recognized greenhouse gas, accounted for 70 million pounds of that figure, and nitrogen oxide, a precursor of ozone, accounted for nearly 1 million pounds. A variety of other components, including particulate matter, volatile organic compounds and carbon monoxide comprise the remainder of the eliminated emissions.
So far, 30 states are benefiting from the improved air quality because of the IdleAire system. Those states include 26 of the 37 states with one or more regions that are not in compliance with the Environmental Protection Agency's air quality standards for ozone, carbon monoxide and/or particulate matter. States that fail to attain EPA standards can potentially lose federal highway funding. Clean air benefits are expected to expand as IdleAire continues its nationwide deployment, which began in 2006 with the announcement of a multi-million-dollar financing package.
NATSO President and CEO Lisa Mullings said, "Our industry is committed to improving the quality of life for the communities where we are located and the customers we serve in a variety of ways. IdleAire has been and will continue to be a valued partner to our organization in the ongoing efforts to offer comprehensive solutions for professional drivers, the traveling public and our communities."
The IdleAire system provides heating, air conditioning and electrical outlets to truck cabs as an alternative to idling. The system also offers many other comforts and amenities of home, including satellite TV, Internet access, movies on demand and phone service.
Many fleets pay for their drivers to use IdleAire's basic services because of the savings in fuel, engine wear and tear, and maintenance. Drivers view the service as a benefit in an industry where turnover exceeds 100 percent. IdleAire also provides a platform for the delivery of driver training in the truck cab, which further reduces fleet expenses.
There are currently 111 IdleAire locations in 30 states. IdleAire expects to be in approximately 200 total locations before the end of the year.