Public transit plays a large role in conserving energy and the environment. By using public transit, individuals can greatly reduce the pollution generated by his/her travel and minimize oil consumption. As part of an effort to reduce pollution and consumption even further, Monroe Transit uses bio-diesel fuel in its entire fleet.

Each year, public transportation use in the U.S. saves 1.4 billion gallons of gasoline. This equates to 300,000 fewer automobile fill-ups every day, reducing our nation’s dependence on foreign oil. A typical public transit rider consumes an average of one half the oil consumed by an automobile rider.

Reduced oil consumption translates into reduced pollution and cleaner air. Public transportation produces 95% less carbon monoxide, 90% less volatile organic compounds, and nearly 50% less carbon dioxide and nitrogen oxide per passenger mile than private vehicles.

In April of 2006, Monroe Transit began using a 5% blend of bio-diesel fuel. The fuel is made from soybeans grown and refined in Louisiana, and is blended with petroleum diesel. The success of the program led Monroe Transit to increase the use of bio-diesel to a 20% blend.

The use of bio-diesel fuel greatly increases the conservation benefits of public transit. By using a 20% blend, Monroe Transit has cut its use of petroleum diesel by about 36,000 gallons annually in favor of a locally grown and refined renewable resource. In addition, a 20% bio-diesel blend reduces particulate matter by 10%, hydrocarbons by 21%, and carbon monoxide by 11%. A 20% bio-diesel blend is considered an alternative fuel by the federal government.