WASHINGTON, D.C. — Citing UPS's alternative fuel program and fuel conservation initiatives, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has honored the company with its distinguished Clean Air Excellence Award. The annual award recognizes organizations that improve air quality through innovative environmental programs.

UPS was honored in the "Transportation Efficiency Innovations" category for expanding its alternative fuel fleet program and for other fuel conservation efforts. UPS has been adapting several new technologies for use in its large truck delivery fleet, including hybrid electric, hydrogen fuel cell and hybrid hydraulic vehicles, while deploying route planning software and taking other steps in the air and on the ground to reduce emissions and save millions of gallons of fuel annually.

"At UPS, we believe we can provide the best service to our customers while reducing our impact on the environment," said Mike Herr, UPS vice president of environmental affairs. "We are constantly evaluating new ways to maintain UPS as a sustainable enterprise."

To date, UPS has invested over $15 million to deploy significant numbers of alternative-fuel vehicles in its fleet. UPS's alternative fuel fleet drove more than 20 million miles last year making deliveries to homes and businesses.