EMA Joins International Partnership to Encourage Cleaner Fuels and Vehicles

    CHICAGO--Aug. 29, 2002--The Engine Manufacturers Association (EMA), a US-based trade association representing the leading manufacturers of internal combustion engines, announced today that it will work with the US Environmental Protection Agency, other industry groups, and environmental organizations, to encourage and assist developing countries achieve cleaner air. The US EPA announced the Clean Fuels and Vehicles Partnership as one of the US-backed joint government-industry initiatives at the Worldwide Summit on Sustainable Development in Johannesburg, South Africa.
    The Partnership will work to achieve the global elimination of leaded gasoline and the reduction of sulfur levels in gasoline and diesel fuels. Achieving these goals will improve air quality in developing countries, enable the introduction of cleaner engines and vehicles and also contribute to a better and healthier environment.
    "Clean fuels are key to reducing emissions from the transportation sector" said Joe Suchecki, Director of Public Affairs for EMA. "This is particularly true in developing countries where poor fuel quality contributes to increased vehicle emissions. The introduction of improved fuels is a key step in reducing emissions from existing vehicles and allows the introduction of better emissions control technology and cleaner vehicles in the future."
    The Partnership will help countries develop viable action plans to work towards cleaner fuels and vehicles and will benefit from EMA members' extensive technical and policy experience on these issues. "The worldwide introduction of cleaner fuel and vehicles is a key goal for EMA members. We believe that this partnership can help improve air quality where it is needed the most. By working toward the adoption of globally aligned and consistent clean fuel and vehicle standards, manufacturers will be better able to cost-effectively produce and market engines with lower emissions. That's a clear step towards cleaner air," said Suchecki.

    The Engine Manufacturers Association is a trade association representing worldwide manufacturers of internal combustion engines used in applications such as trucks and buses, farm and construction equipment, locomotives, marine vessels, and lawn, garden and utility equipment. EMA supports the elimination of lead in gasoline and is a strong proponent of reduced diesel fuel sulfur levels worldwide. EMA works with government and industry stakeholders to help the nation achieve its goals of cleaner fuels, more efficient engines and cleaner air.