The California Air Resources Board said last week that it received a report that examines the opportunities, challenges and potential solutions for developing and deploying advanced clean-air technologies in California.

The report, “Advanced Technology to Meet California’s Climate Goals: Opportunities, Barriers & Policy Solutions,” was prepared by a ten-member sub-group of the Economic and Technology Advancement Advisory Committee. It presents an action plan for advanced technology development to meet climate, economic and air quality goals.

The strategies outlined include a transition to zero-tailpipe-emission transportation technologies, development of new energy efficiency technologies, innovative financing to help residents and businesses become more efficient and shrink their carbon footprint and recommendations for centralized and distributed renewable energy generation technologies.

The report also suggests how the state could provide transitional funding assistance for California companies to deploy advanced technology to improve efficiency and produce low-emission products. The funding could come from allowances in a cap-and-trade program or federal stimulus dollars, the release states.

“We will keep the carefully considered recommendations offered up by the independent technology committee in our back pocket as we move ahead in carrying out the state’s landmark global climate change plan,” said ARB Chairman Mary D. Nichols. “Strong investments in emerging technologies and a green collar workforce must be central components of every measure we take in this critical public health realm.”

Nichols said that many of the state’s diesel regulations are also following through on the committee's direction by reducing black carbon and providing jobs to those manufacturing and installing filters and cleaner engines.

The ETAAC was formed as directed by the California Global Warming Solutions Act of 2006 to advise ARB on activities that will facilitate investment in and implementation of technological research and development opportunities; and advise the ARB on state, regional, national, and international economic and technological developments related to greenhouse gas emission reductions.