Earth Day is supposed to be an opportunity to reflect on our impact as humans on the environment. At least, that’s my take on it. What better way to show our concern for the environment than to keep working to reduce the emissions of our diesel trucks? That’s the goal at the Diesel Technology Forum. To celebrate that commitment, they recently posted a photo that speaks volumes.
As you can see, it’s a pretty striking image. Obviously this isn’t a scientific test, but it is symbolic of how far the industry has come in trying to make our emissions cleaner. “In every sector and application of equipment new technology diesel engines are now near-zero in emissions,” the DTF says. “From farm tractors to tractor trailers; from backhoes to workboats; from engines less than 25 horsepower (hp) to engines over 1,000hp. Clean diesel technology is here, and here to stay.”
This new generation of clean fuel is characterized by cleaner diesel fuel, advanced fuel injection and turbocharging, and emissions control systems. And if we want to keep making progress, we need to be held accountable for the mistakes of the past (we’re looking at you, Volkswagen) and be better. I know people are up in arms about not being able to delete their trucks anymore, and while I understand the impulse, why is that more important than, you know, not polluting the environment?
Regardless, companies are striving to make things better and cleaner, not just to avoid fines or fall into line and obey, but because they want to try to make things better for the next generation of diesel owners. Shouldn’t we all do the same?