Reducing diesel engine emissions improves air

The DNR is accepting applications for projects that reduce diesel emissions, and improve Wisconsin’s air quality and human health. Approximately $320,000 is available to fund Wisconsin-based projects, designed to reduce emissions from eligible public and private vehicle fleets with diesel engines.

Funding is supported through the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), which began awarding clean diesel grants in 2008, under the Diesel Emissions Reduction Act, a grant program created by Congress.

The program helps improve Wisconsin’s air quality, by reducing emissions that contribute to fine particulate, ozone and carbon monoxide levels.

Aging diesel engines produce more pollution than newer engines and are a source of carbon dioxide emissions, a greenhouse gas that contributes to climate change.

Clean diesel grant programs, such as the Diesel Emissions Reduction Act, have reduced carbon dioxide emissions in Wisconsin, by more than 625,000 tons over the lifetime of these programs.

In addition to improving air quality, upgrading or replacing diesel equipment helps vehicle owners reduce operating costs, through increases in fuel efficiency.

Visit dnr.wisconsin.gov for more information and to access grant application materials. The deadline for submitting grant applications is 5 p.m., Jan. 7, 2022.

Eligible equipment and vehicles for funding, include school and transit buses, as well as non-road engines, equipment and vehicles used in construction, cargo handling and agriculture.

For questions regarding this funding opportunity, email DNRCleanDiesel@wisconsin.gov.