The overall emissions benefit for alternative fuels ultimately depends upon the type of alternative fuel used versus the traditional fuel source.  Reductions in nitrogen oxides (NOx), sulfur oxides (SOx), particulate matter (PM), and volatile organic compounds (VOC) are generally observed in varying degrees depending upon the type of alternative fuel used.  Other aspects of these fuels which should also be taken into consideration are costs of the fuels (in equivalent gallons), infrastructure costs for fueling and storage stations, availability of vehicles, and basic fuel economy.

The possibilities are almost endless for the application of alternative fuels.  Many transportation vehicles can be utilized in a small scale transport operation such as an airport, warehouse or university, and the same can be said regarding large scale operations such as school districts, cities and governmental units.  Each of these scenarios could potentially have numerous types of alternative fuel vehicles depending on the specific application. 

Individuals who are interested in changing their current fueling options are encouraged to do so, but only after carefully considering what their options are and what they hope to achieve (i.e. reductions in air emissions, less dependence on imported fuel stocks). 

Emissions Links

• The Green Vehicle Guide 
• Light-duty Alternative Fuel Vehicles
• Heavy-duty Alternative Fuel Vehicles
• California Air Resources Board
• U.S. Environmental Protection Agency - Office of Mobile Sources