Nearly A Half-Million Dollars Going To Reductions Of Emissions By Ground Vehicles

U.S. Transportation Secretary Anthony Foxx has announced a $442,500 FAA grant to Denver International Airport (KDEN) to reduce emissions and improve air quality at the airport through the FAA’s Voluntary Airport Low Emission (VALE) program.

VALE is designed to reduce all sources of airport ground emissions in areas of marginal air quality. The FAA implemented the program in 2005 to help airport sponsors meet their air quality responsibilities under the Clean Air Act. Through VALE, airport sponsors can use Airport Improvement Program (AIP) funds and passenger facility charges to acquire low-emission vehicles, refueling and recharging stations, gate electrification, and other airport-related air quality improvements.

“This program supports President Obama’s efforts to combat carbon pollution and reduce aviation’s emissions footprint,” said Secretary Foxx. “These funds will help airports around the country make the necessary investments to reduce fuel costs and help protect our health and the environment.”

This project will allow aircraft to shut off their auxiliary power units while parked at the gate and connect to a cleaner central heating and cooling system, saving fuel and improving air quality by reducing emissions. This project also will make the ramp and gate areas more environmentally friendly for employees who work in these areas.

“The FAA applauds airlines and airports for finding innovative ways to reduce aviation’s impact on the environment,” said FAA Administrator Michael Huerta.  “We encourage more airports to use VALE funding to make their airport facilities environmentally-friendly members of the community.”

Through VALE, airports have reduced ozone emissions by approximately 466 tons per year, which is equivalent to removing 26,000 cars and trucks off the road annually. Since 2005, the FAA has funded 66 VALE projects at 34 airports, which represents a total investment of $167 million in clean airport technology. That amount includes $133 million in federal grants and $34 million in local airport matching funds.

AIP provides more than $3 billion in annual funding for projects that are vital to maintaining the safety, capacity, and environmental stewardship of our nation’s airports.  More than 3,300 airports are eligible for AIP grants benefiting commercial passengers, cargo operations, and general aviation activities throughout the nation.

The FAA says the VALE program supports efforts to address climate change and support clean energy innovation.

FMI: www.faa.gov/airports/environmental/vale