Over the past two years, the re-evaluation of partnerships and subsequent transition to new service providers has been at the forefront of YMT Vacations’ conservation efforts. Because most of the travel itineraries offered incorporate the use of motor coach transportation, YMT Vacations has made a conscious effort to transition from using motor coach partners with less-than-desirable fuel efficiency. In this transition process, a new relationship with award-winning, MTR Western, a motor coach transportation company who pride themselves on their net negative carbon footprint, has been fostered. With each passing travel season, an increasing number of land tour itineraries are now provided by MTR Western, lessening the negative environmental effects that YMT Vacations’ guests have on the environment.

MTR Western actively works to reduce emissions.

Being one of the most modern and new fleets of motor coaches in North America, MTR Western utilizes equipment featuring exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) technology advancements that reduce nitrogen oxide emissions by over 50% and particulate matter emissions by 90%. This new fleet is definitely ahead of its time: MTR Western’s California-based fleet already meets the state air quality standards set by the California Air Resources Board – the strictest standards in the U.S. that are not slated to go into effect until the year 2013.

Other technological/design initiatives featured by MTR Western include the use of “super single” tires instead of duel rear tires, reducing weight and roll resistance to improve fuel efficiency; ZF transmissions whose automation of shifting based on road conditions, load weight, and travel speeds improve fuel economy by 7%; and new strides into developing the use of biodiesel blends aimed at further reducing emissions. Additionally, drivers are instructed in the best driving/operating practices to help reduce fuel consumption, including speed monitoring via a GPS system aimed to ensure that drivers’ speeds remain at a more fuel efficient 65 mph and a company policy against idling for over 5 minutes.

MTR Western offsets those emissions that are unavoidable.

Although the greatest stride in environmental conservation has been achieved through MTR Western’s work to reduce their carbon footprint, unavoidable emissions are still a reality. By calculating the total emissions to be created in a year, MTR Western takes that information and purchases legitimate carbon offsets to cover above and beyond the unavoidable emission level calculated. This “above and beyond” mentality – coupled with their groundbreaking strides in emission reduction – has made MTR Western a company whose overall carbon footprint is “net negative.”