SORE – Zero-Emission Equipment
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ZEE Certification Guidelines, Regulations, and Application
Manufacturers may earn zero-emission equipment (ZEE) credits by producing equipment that follows the Guidelines and Regulations set forth by CARB.
Potential Electrification of SORE
ZEE is a very important piece to CARB's mission to provide cleaner, healthful air for all citizens of California. The California Clean Air Act requires CARB to achieve the maximum degree of emission reductions possible from vehicular and other mobile sources in order to attain the ambient air quality standards by the earliest practicable date. At the September 2003 hearing, the Board also directed staff to provide a report on the potential for increasing electric equipment in the small off-road category. In response to the Board's request, a Staff Report was prepared to explore the potential electrification of Small Off-Road Engines. As predicted in the Staff Report, there has been a large influx electric powered equipment in the lawn and garden sector, however there has been minimal changes made in the commercial market.
Leaf Blowers
Leaf Blowers have also been deemed an ideal candidate for electrification in both the residential and commercial market. Before Staff prepared the Staff Report regarding the Potential Electrification of Small Off-Road Engines, the Board directed Staff to prepare a report specifically about leaf blowers. Staff prepared a report explaining to the legislature the effect that leaf blowers have on our air and our communities. The report discusses the Particulate Matter (PM) that is produced by the Leaf Blowers, the Noise nuisance, and many other factors that affect the publics view of leaf blowers. At the time electric leaf blowers were limited either to corded models or largely underpowered battery models. Furthermore, in an effort to reduce the amount of PM that is stirred up by the leaf blowers, alternatives such as leaf vacuums can and should be considered by both the commercial and residential sector.
Zero-Emission Equipment Roadshow at Gibbons Park in Sacramento
In partnership with California Park & Recreation Society D2 and the American Green Zone Alliance, employees and contractors with the Mission Oaks Recreation & Park District got to test drive an array of zero-emission landscaping equipment currently available on the market.