In a significant stride towards sustainability, Ontario’s Cleaner Transportation Fuels Regulation is set to undergo an important update, thanks to the proactive advocacy efforts of the Ontario Society of Professional Engineers (OSPE). The proposed amendments aim to refine the calculation methodology for the greenhouse gas intensity of bio-based content, particularly focusing on facilities producing non-fuel products such as medical ethanol or beverage alcohol.
OSPE’s advocacy has been instrumental in shaping these revisions, ensuring that industry perspectives and concerns are not only heard but also integrated into the regulatory framework. Drawing upon key findings from their 2021 Research Report, “Reducing Greenhouse Gas Emissions from Ontario Diesel Highway Trucks,” OSPE highlighted that any improvements in truck freight would require cooperation among provincial, federal, and state governments and trucking and rail associations as well as moving freight from trucks to rail. We advocated for streamlining trucks, using natural gas fuel while avoiding alterations to diesel fuel and engines. This emphasis on practical and feasible clean fuel alternatives, notably renewable natural gas, has resonated strongly within policy discussions.
One of OSPE’s primary recommendations centered on enhancing clarity within the regulation. OSPE proposed the inclusion of a worked example of a GHG calculation in the updated Technical Guideline, emphasizing comprehensive coverage of greenhouse gas emissions throughout the biofuel production process. This detail ensures a more accurate assessment of environmental impacts, aligning with broader objectives of emissions reduction in the transportation sector.
Furthermore, OSPE advocated for harmonization with federal regulations to alleviate the burden on Ontario industries striving for compliance. By aligning with the Government of Canada‘s Clean Fuel Regulations and neighboring jurisdictions, Ontario can foster a unified approach to tackling climate change while streamlining regulatory processes for industries.
The culmination of OSPE’s advocacy efforts marks a significant policy win, as Ontario moves closer to implementing a more robust and harmonized regulatory framework for cleaner transportation fuels by updating the Technical Guideline.
As we celebrate this milestone, it’s imperative to recognize OSPE’s pivotal role in driving these positive changes. OSPE’s dedication to advocating for practical, feasible, and environmentally conscious solutions has been instrumental in shaping policy outcomes that benefit both professional engineers and the planet. In the journey towards a sustainable future, collaboration and advocacy remain indispensable tools, ensuring that regulatory updates reflect broader sustainability commitments.
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