Council calls for regional “Green Fleet” standards and certification to help combat climate change

The Metropolitan King County Council today called for development and adoption of regional green fleet standards and establishment of a regional clean vehicle certification program.

“Clean vehicles are a key component for addressing the climate crisis,” said Councilmember Larry Phillips, sponsor of the legislation. “Our environment and our future depend on embracing and promoting new vehicle technologies that reduce our carbon footprint. Once again, King County has the opportunity to lead the way on climate change with the Green Fleet Initiative.”

King County recently led efforts to form a coalition with 20 local cities to develop a Green Fleet Initiative, pledging to bring more clean and climate-friendly vehicles to King County.

The ordinance adopted today furthers the Green Fleet Initiative by calling on the Executive to report on the process for development and adoption of regional green fleet standards and the potential creation of a regional clean vehicle certification program.

The ordinance also calls for assignment of special clean transportation technology demonstration vehicles to County employees for a limited time in order to promote and demonstrate the viability of low-emission, energy-efficient technologies and fossil fuel alternatives. Councilmember Phillips is demonstrating his commitment to the program by driving an electric plug-in vehicle from the County’s fleet.

“Driving the plug-in hybrid not only provides a cleaner way to get around, but it’s proven to be a powerful catalyst for conversation,” said Phillips. “I’ve enjoyed talking up the technology and giving people a firsthand look at how quiet and efficient the car is. It’s the way of the future, and the Green Fleet Program is helping make that future now.”

The ordinance adopted today is another step taken by the Council and Executive to help reduce the region’s emissions of greenhouse gases. Those efforts include:

• Participation in the Cities for Climate Protection Campaign,
• Membership in the Chicago Climate Exchange, North America's premier program for reducing greenhouse gas emissions through binding goals and the trading of carbon credits,
• Development of a Climate Change preparedness and mitigation plan, an energy plan, and a plan for use of alternative fuels.

Read more about this legislation on the King County Council’s LEGISEARCH system. Type in “2007-0543”