School districts around the U.S. are making the switch to propane autogas school buses. Why? On top of offering the lowest total cost-of-ownership available and operating noticeably quieter, propane autogas buses reduce harmful emissions around students.
The World Health Organization and the Environmental Protection Agency have identified diesel engine exhaust as a carcinogen, which can cause short- and long-term health effects. The shorter height of young students—or students who use wheelchairs—can make them even more vulnerable to the harmful effects of diesel engine exhaust.
“It was very important for us to improve the environment for our students who use wheelchairs for mobility,” said Peter Crossan, fleet and compliance manager for Boston Public Schools. “What’s great about propane is there’s no detectable odor, and there’s no visible exhaust.”
Northside Independent School District in San Antonio, Texas operates more than 400 propane autogas school buses. Superintendent Dr. Brian Woods said, “I think there’s a clear benefit to the community around using fuel that generates less emissions. There’s all kinds of issues in this community around the environmental impacts to children. Asthma is a big concern to many, many parents.”
Propane autogas does not aggravate the symptoms of students with asthma or other breathing-related issues. To further reduce emissions, the Propane Education & Research Council supported the development of new quick-connect nozzles. The commitment to developing this technology will reduce the amount of cubic centimeters of fuel that could escape while refueling, which benefits communities.
As a transportation official, you have the power to change schools and communities for the better with propane autogas buses. To learn more about the benefits of these buses, visit: propaneschoolbuses.com
