Considerations in Reducing Truck Emissions in Metropolitan Areas Through the Improvement of Goods-Movement

A reduction in truck emissions in metropolitan areas can be accomplished through 1) the installation of pollution control devices, and 2) the more efficient utilization of trucks in the movement of goods. This paper discusses the government-mandated standards for truck emission control, and reviews the various methods employed or suggested for improving the efficiency of trucks -- such as the “off-hours” delivery system -- as well as alternative vehicle modes for moving goods. The conclusion is that improving the efficiency of trucks can reduce congestion -- and costs to both truckers and shippers -- and, at the same time, it also can reduce pollution.