The Ontario Trucking Association (OTA) recently submitted its comments to the Ministry of Environment, Conservation and Parks (MECP) about the modernization of the Drive Clean Program and the development of a new incentive program for trucking companies in the province.

The government announced the beginning of a consultation process to redesign the heavy truck emissions control program, including stronger roadside enforcement focused on anti-tampering regulations.

OTA’s comments to the government highlighted the high level of compliance currently in the trucking industry, and how the industry is already highly regulated and proud in doing its part in reducing its environmental footprint in Ontario.

OTA’s comments also recommended various improvements to modernize the program, including:

• The phasing-out the heavy-duty Drive Clean Program because of the overwhelming pass rates in the province;
• Opposing a lengthy on-board diagnostic (OBD) test, and focusing on more impactful issues such as compliance with engine tampering to improve air quality and reduce carbon emissions;
• The development of a cost-effective and focused inspection program dealing with emissions systems and speed limiter component tampering;
• The establishment of several working groups to explore, review and research procedures surrounding OBD testing; enforcement protocols, when a review of Motor Vehicle Inspection Station (MVIS) are triggered; and the various industry reasons for the use of delete kits to help shape future enforcement policies.

“OTA looks forward to working with its members and the MECP in working through these complex issues that will continue to level the playing field, reduce regulatory burdens and costs, and focus enforcement on the segment of the trucking industry that truly needs it,” says OTA president Stephen Laskowski.

OTA also provided its feedback on the development of an incentive program for operators who consistently demonstrate a commitment to running cleaner fleets. In its comments, OTA supported a program which builds off the previous Green Commercial Vehicle Program (GCVP) while also reiterating its support for the use of natural gas; reviewing previous rebate levels in the program; incorporating an early adopter incentive; and including proven technologies such as wide single tires and driver monitoring systems to improve fuel consumption.

For a copy of OTA’s submission, members can contact lak.shoan@ontruck.org