The Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation (TDEC), Tennessee Department of Transportation (TDOT), and Tennessee Clean Fuels (TNCleanFuels) held the fourth annual Tennessee Sustainable Transportation Forum September 17-18, 2018 at the UT Conference Center in downtown Knoxville.

The forum, “Where Innovation Meets Implementation,” highlighted new research and technologies that improve transportation efficiency, reduce vehicle emissions, and address the mobility needs of all Tennesseans. Approximately 170 transportation leaders from across the state and the country participated.

TNCleanFuels is housed in and supported by the Institute for a Secure and Sustainable Environment, a Tickle College of Engineering research center.

The forum also honored winners of the TDEC/TDOT 2018 Tennessee Sustainable Transportation Awards, which recognize initiatives to improve the efficiency, accessibility, affordability, and sustainability of transportation systems in the state, consistent with ongoing efforts to improve the health and well-being of Tennesseans, provide for a strong economy, and protect our state’s natural resources.

In addition, the forum featured a vast showcase of alternative fuel vehicles, as well as a recognition ceremony for a new class of certified Tennessee Green Fleets.

Through Tennessee Clean Fuels’ Tennessee Green Fleets Certification Program, any Tennessee-based fleet can apply for certification for its efforts toward reducing petroleum consumption, improving air quality, and increasing the use of alternative fuels or advanced vehicle technologies.

This year’s inductees were: Greater Dickson Gas Authority; WeGo Public Transit, Downtown Nashville Service; Athens Utilities Board, Natural Gas Division; Great Smoky Mountains National Park; NET Trans, Carter County Fleet; and City of Knoxville, Mower Fleet.