Specifications include, but are not limited to: Since 2008, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has been awarding financial assistance under the Diesel Emissions Reduction Act (DERA) to assist States in their efforts to develop diesel emissions reduction programs. The Vermont Diesel Emissions Reduction Financial Assistance Program under the State of Vermont, Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) have been developed in order to provide technical assistance and incentive funding for projects that reduce diesel emissions from engines, vehicles, and equipment in Vermont with the goals of reducing public exposure to emissionsfrom diesel-powered engines and the associated risk to public health and the environment. According to the U.S. EPA, exposure to diesel exhaust, even at low levels, is a serious health hazard and can cause respiratory problems such as asthma, bronchitis, lung damage, and increased risk of lung cancer. Additionally, older model year diesel engines are typically less fuel efficient than newer models, thereby emitting greater amounts of greenhouse gases and exacerbating global climate change. The State of Vermont, DEC is seeking applicants for projects that achieve significant reductionsin diesel emissions from diesel powered engines, vehicles, and equipment operating in Vermont. The State is currently accepting applications for funding under this financial assistance program and encourages all interested parties to apply. All projects must be completed by Saturday, March 30,20241 .
