The Florida Gold Coast Clean Cities Program is working to help reduce our region’s dependence on foreign oil. We are doing this by encouraging the widespread use of alternative fuels and alternative fuel vehicles.

One of the key components of our mission is to improve the environment by promoting the use of alternative fuel vehicles (AFVs).

So, how will AFVs improve the environment and air quality in the Gold Coast Region?

Using alternative fuels greatly reduces ozone forming emissions and exposure to toxic gases. These emissions are created not only when fuel is burned but through the evaporation of fossil fuels. When these emissions are combined with sunlight, ozone forms close to the ground. This is where it is harmful to humans, wildlife, and vegetation. Exposure to high levels of ozone can cause respiratory illness, headaches, and dizziness. Children and the elderly are particularly vulnerable to the harmful effects of ozone. In addition, driving AFVs reduces evaporative emissions and the likelihood of spills that can damage vegetation, water, and wildlife.

The Florida Gold Coast Clean Cities Program is working with its member to provide funding, incentives, refueling stations, and training and assistance for purchasing and using AFVs. Each year more AFVs are replacing gasoline and diesel fueled vehicles and that means cleaner air for all of us to breathe.

* Includes Palm Beach, Broward, and Miami-Dade Counties.

Because alternative fuels like natural gas, propane, electricity and others are produced domestically, they keep dollars right here in our economy. Also, local companies are providing these alternative fuels and this supports jobs in our region.

Using alternative fuel vehicles stimulates our regional economy. They help create alternative fuel technologies and products, production and distribution systems, refueling infrastructure, vehicle dealers and maintenance services, and other commercial opportunities. Ultimately, this means new jobs and industries in our region.