Photo via Timothy Dykes on unsplash.com

The City of Fresno recently launched a program aiming to reduce greenhouse gas emissions in the state while keeping Californians safe.

The Cool Air Rebate Program (CAR) has nearly $600,000 in funding for vehicle air conditioning system repairs. It was launched in July.

The program offers financial assistance to eligible residents, and so far has repaired 550 vehicles, reducing harmful R-134a refrigerant emissions from leaking into the environment.

Nathan Perrine — executive director of the Car Care Council, the national organization leading the initiative — said it is designed to help California meet its climate change and air quality goals at the community level.

“By providing financial aid to low-income vehicle owners, we not only make their cars more efficient and comfortable but also reduce harmful emissions, improving both environmental and public health,” Perrine added.

CAR is the first program of its kind in the U.S. to remove leaking R-134a refrigerant, which is commonly used in vehicles manufactured between 1993 and 2019.

R-134a contributes to greenhouse gas emissions when it leaks into the air.

To date, 70 automotive repair shops in 34 cities participate in the CAR program, and the program is expected to expand further across California this year.

City of Fresno Mayor Jerry Dyer said he is proud the city was chosen to launch the innovate program that will tackle the environmental challenges of hot summers while providing critical financial relief to residents.

“By repairing vehicle air conditioning systems, we’re improving air quality and making Fresno a healthier, more livable community. This program highlights Fresno’s leadership in forward-thinking solutions, and I strongly encourage residents and businesses to take full advantage of this opportunity,” said Dyer.

Combined, there are 21 automotive shops in the Fresno-Clovis area participating in the program.

To find which automotive shops are participating in the Cool Air Rebate Program, visit https://coolairrebate.org/shop-locator/