On October 4, 2004, EPA Administrator Mike Leavitt announced that Wal-Mart, the worlds top retailer, had joined the SmartWay Transport Partnership.
The SmartWay Transport Partnership is a major voluntary program that is increasing the energy efficiency and energy security of our country, while significantly reducing air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions.
"I am proud to welcome Wal-Mart and Tyson Foods to the SmartWay program," EPA Administrator Mike Leavitt said. "They are leading the way, with existing partners, for more companies to join us in making our economy stronger, our air cleaner, and - at the same time - improving their bottom line."
Throughout the U.S. there is concern for pollution caused by diesel engines. All of us at one time or another has seen the black soot coming form the exhaust pipes of trucks, buses, and construction equipment. The SmartWay program aims to reduce pollution from diesel engines by setting new emission standards and reducing the level of sulfur in diesel fuel going forward.
Wal-Marts semi-truck fleet numbers around 6,500, "This is the right thing to do for the environment and our business," said Rollin Ford, Wal-Mart Executive Vice President.
SmartWay Transport partners can achieve fuel efficiency in a variety of ways, including automatic tire-inflation systems, next generation super single tires, the use of low-viscosity lubricants, reducing truck idling time, and improving routing and scheduling.