In the second installment of John Deere's sustainability and engine compliance newsletter, the company looks at the U.S. and Canadian emissions paths. Over the last several years, Canadian off-road emissions regulations have been aligned with U.S. EPA regulations; however, there are some key differences. Knowing the similarities and differences will help both Canadian and U.S. contractors better manage their fleets.
A little history first: in 2005, Canada first required off-road diesel engine and equipment manufacturers to meet U.S. EPA emissions standards. Specifically, Canada adopted U.S. EPA Tier 2 and 3 standards, depending on engine horsepower, for model year 2006 and later diesel engines.
Now, regarding U.S. Interim Tier 4 and Final Tier 4 standards, Canada has yet to publish proposed or final regulations adopting these standards. You should expect Canada to align with U.S. standards, though their timing will differ. Some U.S. EPA Tier 4 standards are currently effective for lower engine power classes that do not require after-treatment. There are also some differences to keep in mind for engines in certain applications, such as those in underground mines.
On a local level, some in-use rules are starting to develop in Canada, just as we have seen in the U.S. Remember that the term “in-use” refers to existing engines that are already in contractors’ equipment fleets.
As part of its “Diesel Emission Reduction Program,” Metro Vancouver is currently considering a very unique “Non-Road Diesel Emissions Initiative.” As proposed, this program, among other things, would impose regulatory fees to promote retrofitting, re-powering or replacement of Tier 1 and Tier 0 off-road engines, which were made prior to the U.S. EPA’s enactment of off-road standards in 1996, along with the establishment of an incentive trust fund to assist with these efforts.
Sound familiar? Just like in the U.S., options for complying with in-use rules include installing retrofit devices, re-powering equipment and renting or purchasing new machines.
If you’re a contractor doing business in Canada, be aware of the areas with the highest levels of PM and ground-level ozone; these areas are more likely to see in-use regulations in the future. Your local dealer should be monitoring the situation as well so they can help you implement the right emissions reduction solution for your equipment.
