Green Milwaukee

Milwaukee Public Works Implements First Eco-Driving Program in the Nation

The Department of Public Works’ Eco-Driving Program is the first of its kind in America since the Department of Energy’s Conservation Awareness Training program in 1976. Eco-Driving is a driver program designed to educate Department of Public Works Fleet drivers about the techniques and methods of maintaining and operating their vehicle in the most efficient manner possible.

 The program began in September 2008 and recently graduated 12 drivers. A new class of drivers will take the course in the fall.

Eco-Driving demonstrates how to optimize the use of a vehicle by driving in a safer, environmentally friendly, economical and stress-free way. The benefits of Eco-Driving are:

• Reduced fuel consumption
• Reduced vehicle maintenance costs
• Reduced risk of a traffic accident
• Reduced greenhouse emissions
• Reduced pollution from particulate emission and reduced vehicle noise

The amount of gallons of saved fuel can range from 4% to 20% and it can be expected to save approximately $150 per vehicle per year. Here are some tips on how to drive in an eco-friendly manner:

• Maintain a constant speed and use cruise control whenever possible
• Accelerate and brake smoothly. Fast starts and hard braking waste fuel and wear out brakes
• Don't idle your engine
• Keep your tires properly inflated, Improperly inflated tires result in 3-4% higher fuel usage
• Travel light, remove excess weight from vehicles

The Eco-Driving Program is a partnership between DPW, the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, Wisconsin Clean Cities Program and the Milwaukee Area Technical College. The program was funded through a grant from the Department of Natural Resources and is aimed at reducing air pollution.