Biodiesel fuels Parkview Transit buses

Parkview Transit is about to become the first school bus company in Ontario to run a biodiesel fuel blend in 30% of its school buses.

Over the next year, Parkview Transit will replace approximately 100,000 liters of diesel fuel with biodiesel, which is made from renewable resources such as soybean, corn and canola oils. It is the fastest-growing alternative fuel in North America.

"Among our top priorities in making this decision, were concerns those students riding school buses could be exposed to fuel emission levels higher than those who do not travel by vehicle to and from school," said Jon Knowles, president of Parkview Transit. "And, as we are all too well aware, emissions from fossil fuels such as diesel contribute to air pollution, acid rain and global warming."

By choosing a cleaner fuel alternative for many of its school buses, Parkview Transit will reduce harmful tail pipe emissions and visible smoke, providing a healthier environment for its young passengers, and also for its employees and the communities it serves.

According to Natural Resources Canada's Web site, over the life cycle - from growing oilseeds or collecting rendering animal waste through fuel production and use - pure biodiesel produces 60% to 100% fewer greenhouse gas emissions compared with petroleum diesel, depending on what oil or fat is used to make it.

A 20% blend of biodiesel with petroleum diesel (B-20) produces 12% to 18% fewer emissions, and a 2% blend (B-2) produces 1% to 2% fewer emissions.

As well, by converting certain waste products into biodiesel, they are diverted from landfill sites where they may have produced methane gas, which contributes to climate change.

As this initial phase of the conversion of the Parkview Transit fleet progresses, other benefits are expected. Reduced maintenance costs and less wear-and tear on the mechanicals of the buses themselves are envisioned. This could offer economic benefits both to the company and to its customers. But the passengers are the paramount reason for the switch.

"Every school day, families and school boards entrust the safety of their children to us," added Knowles. "And we take our company mandate - Carrying the Future - very seriously. Now, by pioneering this biodiesel program, we're extending that mandate to benefit the broader community."

Parkview Transit was established in 1974, operating originally in Simcoe County. Purchased by Canadex Resources Ltd. in 1989, Parkview Transit continued to expand through acquisitions in the Collingwood and Caledon regions.

Continuous fleet and service expansion since then enables the company to now provide daily service to the York District Catholic School Board; York Region District School Board; Simcoe Muskoka Catholic District School Board; Simcoe County District School Board; Peel District School Board; Dufferin-Peel Catholic District School Board; Ministry of Health - Special Care Services.

The company employs 25 full-time staff and over more than full- and part-time drivers.