Alternative Options to Diesel Fuel in Construction Equipment

The construction industry is a major contributor to the environmental emissions due to the extensive use of construction equipment, which is responsible for greenhouse gas emissions and harmful substances such as carbon monoxide, nitrogen oxide and particulate matter emissions. The goal of this paper is to analyze the current equipment and fuel used and to compare to the new fuels that are said to be better for the environment. There have been studies in which companies have employed a portable emission measurement system (PEMS) for real time measurement of emissions from construction equipment including carbon dioxide (CO2), carbon monoxide (CO), as well as nitrous oxide (NO). The alternative fuel options were analyzed based on differences in costs and emissions while also examining the costs and benefits of Tier 4 engines. An interview with a construction professional lead to more insight on Tier 4 engines and their use in the industry. Biofuel is indeed better in terms of cost and emissions when compared to standard diesel. Tier 4 is an option that can greatly reduce emissions by 95 percent. The reduction of these emissions and pollutants is necessary to reduce the impact of the construction industry on our precious planet.