Airport Emission Reduction Credits for Early Measures through Voluntary Airport Low Emission Programs
Abstract
In 2004, Vision 100 legislation established the Voluntary Airport Low Emission (VALE) program to encourage airport sponsors to implement clean technology projects that improve air quality. VALE is available to commercial service airports located in areas that are in non-attainment or maintenance of National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS). Eligible project types include mobile and stationary equipment that reduces on-airport emissions, such as low-emission vehicles and infrastructure upgrades. The airport programs are intended to reduce criteria pollutants and precursors, improve regional air quality, and accelerate the use of new and cleaner technology. Participation in the program is entirely voluntary for the airport sponsors and the state, district, and local air quality agencies. States have the opportunity to realize the environmental and public information benefits of early reductions in airport emissions in exchange for granting appropriate emission credits to airport sponsors.