An initiative piloted by the Grounds crew in Campus Services & Business Operations (CSBO) at York University will see equipment powered by gas and diesel fuel replaced with electrically powered alternatives. The effort will improve air quality, reduce noise pollution, benefit the health of York University employees. The move to electric power will help the University to reduce its greenhouse gas emissions at both the Keele and Glendon Campuses.
Grounds has recently purchased 49 new pieces of equipment, including a full line of push mowers, handheld leaf blowers, trimmers, hedge trimmers and chain saws. In 2017, a three-year goal was established to replace all the equipment (more than 100 units), and the initiative is a year ahead of the scheduled plan to meet these targets.
“There are many benefits to converting to battery powered equipment. These include zero emissions, no fuel consumption and less maintenance for engine parts. The equipment will be much quieter a benefit outside of classrooms or residences,” said Tim Haagsma, manager of Grounds, Fleet & Waste Management, CSBO. “This will also benefit the health and well-being of the Grounds staff, as there are no toxic fumes and the equipment is lighter.”
For more information about this initiative, contact Haagsma at thaagsma@yorku.ca or 416-736-2100, ext. 20303.