OCTA is committed to safeguarding Orange County’s air, land, water and community to create healthier, happier lives today, while putting the wheels in motion to shape a resilient future for generations to come. Recently, OCTA pledged to advocate sustainability and environmental stewardship as part of its initiatives for 2022.
Following are some of OCTA’s 2021 sustainability highlights: :
- OCTA moved closer to achieving a zero-emission fleet by purchasing 72 electric vehicle charging stations for the fleet of light-duty vehicles that supports its bus operations, transit police services and other needs.
- As part of the OC Go Environmental Cleanup Program, OCTA awarded nearly $2.7 million to improve water quality in Orange County cities from San Clemente to Stanton.
- Following a brief halt during the pandemic, OCTA reinstated a series of free hikes and equestrian rideson some of the county’s most pristine landscapes as part of the OC Go Environmental Mitigation Program.
- Former California State Transportation Agency Secretary David S. Kim met with leaders from OCTA to learn more about OCTA’s zero-emission bus pilot program and toured the Santa Ana bus base, where the agency’s hydrogen fueling station is located.
- OCTA launched a website showcasing its culture of sustainability and commitment to a green future, then encouraged visitors with a promotion during April/Earth Month.
- In recognition of reducing more than 200,000 metric tons of greenhouse gas by choosing renewable natural gas for its OC Bus fleet, OCTA was awarded the Element Markets Crystal Award.
- OCTA received more than $6 million from the Low Carbon Transit Operations Program (LCTOP), part of California’s effort to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, to support initiatives that will encourage more people to ride OC Bus.
- OCTA awarded a contract for 10 battery chargers to support a pilot program testing how plug-in battery-electric buses perform on Orange County streets.
The action is part of the agency’s many efforts to move to 100 percent zero-emission technology by 2040.