DC Water has been tapping into the benefits of biodiesel. All of its 230 diesel fleet vehicles are powered by a B20 blend of biodiesel. According to the company, between October 1, 2015-August 31, 2016 – the use of biodiesel displaced nearly 15,000 gallons of petroleum diesel providing an estimated 15 percent reduction in CO2, a 12 percent reduction in carbon monoxide, a 20 percent reduction in both hydrocarbon and sulfur dioxide and a 12 percent reduction in particulate matter.

Anthony Lancaster, Fleet Maintenance Supervisor, DC Water. Photo credit: NBB

“Biodiesel just makes sense,” said Timothy Fitzgerald, Director Fleet Management for DC Water. “We switched to biodiesel in 2007 and have never looked back. It can be used in existing diesel engines, reduces emissions, and our drivers notice a big difference in fumes.”

DC Water uses a variety of vehicles in its fleet including sewer trucks, dump truck and crew cabs. Back in 2013, Government Fleet named DC Water one of the 100 Best Fleets for 2013. Because of his leadership, the National Biodiesel Board (NGG) has tapped Fitzgerald to be a Biodiesel Ambassador, a program also supported by the United Soybean Board.

In addition to using biodiesel, Fitzgerald has incorporated the use of fleet management software that helps monitor everything from emissions to driver safety. He also works with original equipment manufacturers to ensure that all vehicles are designed to meet clean-idling specifications.

The fleet division also shrank the environmental impact of its maintenance operations through the use of soy-biobased products, such as adhesive remover, hydraulic fluid, hand cleaner, grease and engine oil.

Fitzgerald added, “We look for opportunities to do right by the environment and our employees in every aspect of our operation – from the vehicles, to shop supplies, to building operation and maintenance.“