Using natural gas instead of diesel is also a patriotic thing to do. As a domestic resource, natural gas boosts the U.S. economy and reduces our dependence on foreign oil.

The greatest long-term benefit of natural gas, however, is its environmental impact, and the positive impression of your agency that it creates on riders, agency employees, government officials, news media, community leaders and your region as a whole. Operating a clean-burning fleet exhibits an agency's caring about the welfare of its community and affords a positive public image, which helps in seeking support for other agency endeavors.

It's true that when you first convert to a natural gas bus fleet, there are capital start-up costs for the compressors, fueling station, phasing in of new buses and retraining your mechanics. But the cleaner, brighter future it promises is well worth the initial investment.