I’d like to commend the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency for finalizing strong fuel efficiency and greenhouse gas standards for medium- and heavy-duty trucks.

This policy not only puts the trucking industry on a more sustainable path, but it is a triple “win” for consumers, the environment and businesses that must transport their products.

Package delivery vans, tractor-trailers, buses and other large trucks are the fastest growing segment of vehicles on U.S. roads in terms of energy use and emissions. And since fuel is the largest cost of owning and operating heavy-duty trucks, better efficiency means drivers spend less money and time refueling, and businesses see reduced shipping costs — savings that will hopefully be passed on to consumers.

Smart fuel efficiency regulations, like the new heavy-duty standards from NHTSA and the EPA, are helping put money back into the economy and truck drivers’ pockets while giving the U.S., and our planet, an extended breath of fresh air.

Amy Nutting

Vassalboro