What comes to mind when you think about zero-emission vehicles? If you’re like most consumers, you probably think of electric or hybrid cars. However, electricity is not inherently better for the environment than other alternative fuel sources. Many will be surprised to hear that propane fuel for work vehicles may actually impact the environment less than an electric motor.

Currently, there is no such thing as a truly zero-emission fuel source. Even electricity produces pollutant emissions when it is generated. However, an environmentally conscious business can take steps to reduce the air pollutants they produce by switching to propane fuel. Here’s a closer look at propane autogas and its surprisingly low impact on the environment.

We all know that vehicles produce air pollution. But are propane emissions really that bad? Take a closer look at this reemerging fuel source here. #PropaneSpecialty Share on X

Is Propane Bad for the Environment?

Propane is classified as a nontoxic substance due to its minimal impact on the surrounding environment. Liquid propane spilled on the ground will not contaminate the soil or groundwater, and propane vapors will not pollute air beyond an unpleasant smell. Better yet, burning propane results in almost no particulate emissions and far fewer air pollutants than burning gasoline. This remarkably clean track record shows that propane fuel is far more environmentally friendly than most common energy sources.

Pro Tip: Propane’s non-toxic classification makes it a very safe fuel choice for both home and industrial usage.

Vehicle Improvements

As propane-powered engines become more efficient, making changes to conventional vehicles can help lower their greenhouse gas emissions. These modifications can include completely switching to propane or turning the vehicle into a hybrid model consuming propane and a secondary fuel source. The Department of Energy considers either method to be a cost-effective way to reduce your vehicles’ emissions. 

Estimated Propane Emissions

Comparisons of different vehicles’ lifetime emissions show glowing results for propane fuel. A study by the Department of Energy shows that certain emissions were reduced by as much as 13%! In fact, propane-powered vehicles produce approximately the same amount of pollution as gasoline-powered vehicles with extensive emission controls in place. Propane burns much cleaner without the need for additional equipment.

Keeping Your Vehicle Fleet Green

Reducing greenhouse gases in the atmosphere starts by making good decisions in your everyday business functions. These decisions can be as small as recycling more or as impactful as switching to propane autogas for your vehicular fuel supply. How can you reduce your carbon footprint?

Contact us for more information on our propane autogas setup and ongoing services.