Metro can steer bus fleet toward zero emissions
Re “Metro can go two ways at once in choosing L.A.’s new bus fleet” (Guest commentary, May 24):
Many transit agencies, large and small, in California and beyond are transitioning to zero-emission bus fleets, including Foothill and Antelope Valley transit agencies. If they can do it, the Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority should be able to also.
Battery-electric buses on today’s grid provide lower smog-forming and global-warming emissions than natural gas fueled buses, including those fueled with biomethane from landfills.
We shouldn’t use biomethane (“renewable natural gas”) to fuel buses when electric vehicle technology is here and ready, with ranges over 200 miles per charge and total costs of ownership approaching conventional technologies. While biomethane can reduce the climate impacts of landfills, wastewater treatment centers and dairies, this fuel is limited in supply and does not offer the same emissions benefits as electric buses.
— Jimmy O’Dea, Oakland The letter writer is a vehicles analyst for the Union of Concerned Scientists.
Trump’s Mideast challenge
Re “Trump makes personal appeal to both sides for Mideast peace” (May 23):
I think President Trump sincerely believes that he can be the one to at last bring the Israelis and Palestinians together. This conflict has been going on for years to no avail.
President Mahmoud Abbas, instead of financially rewarding murderers who commit these atrocities and then become martyrs, should be held accountable. Of course, this is not going to happen as the mantra is to rid the Earth of all Jewish blood.
The Palestinian Authority still does not recognize the state of Israel. How can you bring peace with only Israel willing to give concessions? Israel has the right to Jerusalem as its capital. This has been its holy city for thousands of years and hopefully will remain that for generations to come.
— Pamela Franklin, Granada Hills
Only a wall will work
Re “ICE arrests nearly 190 immigrants in Southern California” (May 25):
Why bother deporting these people? They come back anytime they want. Maybe it will help if they build the border wall.
— Joe Pinoy Lozano, Mission Hills
