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Vermont DEC Urges Drivers to Reduce Idling as Cold Weather Approaches
As colder weather sets in, the Vermont Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) is calling on drivers to turn off their vehicle engines to reduce unnecessary idling. DEC Commissioner Batchelder emphasized, “Idling isn’t good for your car or our air,” noting that it wastes fuel, increases engine wear, and contributes to air pollution, which adversely affects health and the environment.
Motor vehicles are a major source of air pollutants and greenhouse gases in Vermont. The exhaust from idling vehicles significantly lowers air quality, posing serious health risks, particularly to children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory or heart conditions. By minimizing idling—even by just one minute each day—Vermonters could collectively save over one million gallons of fuel annually, translating to over $3.8 million in cost savings and a reduction of more than 10,000 metric tons of carbon dioxide emissions.
The DEC encourages drivers to take simple actions: switch off their engines when stopped for over 10 seconds (or 30 seconds for heavy-duty vehicles), gently warm up engines by driving, and utilize indoor waiting areas instead of remaining in idling vehicles. Vermont law restricts idling to five minutes within a 60-minute span, although some local jurisdictions may impose stricter rules. Additionally, school buses are prohibited from idling while loading and unloading children on school property.
The DEC remains committed to protecting Vermont’s natural resources and public health for future generations. For more information on reducing idling and improving air quality, visit dec.vermont.gov and follow the DEC on social media.
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Photo credit vermontbiz.com
