Metro’s “greening” Cincinnati, one bus at a time.
Riding Cincinnati Metro is quickly becoming one of the most environmentally-responsible ways to get around town with the addition of five new “mini-hybrid” buses going into service on Earth Day.
Cincinnati Metro’s planning to add 32 additional “mini-hybrids” by the end of May. These additions will bring Metro’s “mini-hybrid” total to 115 along with the 27 hybrid buses already in Metro’s 356 bus fleet.
The “mini-hybrid” buses use thermal cooling technology to provide improved fuel economy and reduced greenhouse gas emissions.
The 70,000 individuals who ride Metro instead of driving each day help reduce carbon emissions by more than 4,800 pounds each year - making it a green transportation alternative.
Green partnerships
In 2012, the Greater Cincinnati Earth Coalition selected Metro to receive the Cincinnati Earth Day Celebration’s Environmental Award. This year, Metro partnered with the city of Cincinnati’s Office of Environment & Sustainability and Rumpke to help increase recycling in East Price Hill by rewarding residents with a chance to win a free Metro pass when they make the green choice of actively recycling.
Metro is a member of the local Green Umbrella organization working to improve the economic vitality and quality of life in the region around Cincinnati by maximizing the collective impact of individuals and organizations dedicated to environmental sustainability.
Throughout the year, Metro’s Maintenance team provides hybrid technology informational sessions to area high school Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) students about how hybrids work.
Green Practices
Metro uses environmentally friendly practices every day, including:
- Using rainwater to wash buses
- Burning waste oil to heat garages
- Recycling and reusing motor fluids such as antifreeze, refrigerant and power steering fluid
- Recycling paper, plastic and cans
"Metro is a member of the community and we take our environmental responsibility seriously. We're proud to promote green practices both in our facilities and with our bus fleet," said Metro's CEO Dwight Ferrell. "To be able to provide the community with an environmentally responsible way to travel throughout Cincinnati benefits us all."
