KAG Canada and its Westcan Bulk Transport operation recently partnered with Edmonton International Airport and Innovative Fuel Systems (IFS) to reduce carbon emissions and promote sustainable transportation through new fueling technology.
IFS is an Edmonton, Alberta, Canada-based company that provides technology intended to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions in the transportation industry. IFS partnered with KAG Canada, a subsidiary of the largest bulk commodity hauler in North America, to utilize this technology in six Westcan tractor-trailers.
The vehicles were retrofitted to have the engines operate on both diesel fuel and cleaner-burning compressed natural gas.
“Careful consideration of our environmental impact has to factor in all current and future business decisions we make,” said Mike Royer, vice president of fleet services for KAG Canada. “We hope this technology rollout inspires the industry to continuously elevate our individual levels of awareness, consideration, and action.”
According to IFS, its technology will allow up to a 45% reduction in certain GHG emissions, and about 10% CO2e reduction on a lifecycle model (well to wheel). The initial deployment has been on Edmonton-based routes, including transporting aviation fuel to Edmonton International Airport on vehicles fueled with natural gas from the EIA-based ATCO Natural Gas Refueling Station.
“We are delighted to support KAG Canada’s efforts to lead the way in the decarbonization of the Heavy-Duty Diesel trucking industry,” said Leland Oberst, president and CEO of Innovative Fuel Systems
The collaboration reflects the commitment of businesses in the Edmonton metropolitan region to a sustainable future. Reducing greenhouse gas is a priority for KAG Canada, which is committed to adapting advanced technology within all areas of its operations. By reducing emissions associated with the transportation of aviation fuel, EIA will reduce emissions associated to its overall operations. It also reflects EIA’s dedication to sustainability and becoming the first airport in the world to sign The Climate Pledge, committing to being carbon neutral by 2040.
“Edmonton International Airport is committed to a greener aviation industry and strives to be a leader in sustainability,” said Myron Keehn, EIA VP of air service and business development. “With our goal of being carbon neutral by 2040, it is critical to find partners that share our vision of decarbonizing all parts of the aviation sectors. We are fortunate to find local partners that share this vision with KAG, Innovative Fuel Systems and ATCO.”
Added Chris Nash, president of the Alberta Motor Transport Association: “AMTA has made it our priority to champion the transition of Canada’s commercial transportation industry into the era of zero-emission. Innovations like this are a critical step in that journey. Dual-fuel technology bridges the zero-emission transition.
“We’re proud to see our members adopting technologies that can reduce the environmental impact of heavy-duty vehicles, lower fuel consumption and costs, and maintain their essential value in the supply chain.”