In 2002, Ramiro Lopez led the City of Dallas to become the first major fleet in North Texas to switch to B20, a 20 percent blend of biodiesel. But at first, the assistant fuel director kept the progressive change to himself and his superiors.

"I would rather do the right thing and ask for forgiveness later," said Lopez with his characteristic smile. "But I didn't have to ask forgiveness at all! After everyone found out that they'd already been using B20 for six months, it was smooth sailing.

Since then, largely due to Lopez's leadership and mentoring, there are about 10 government and school fleets in the Dallas-Ft. Worth area using biodiesel. That includes the City of Irving, where Lopez went after retiring from Dallas. He promptly implemented B20 there, too.

"Most cities are looking to become sustainable, and fuel is an opportunity to create a green fleet overnight so easily with biodiesel," Lopez said. I look back to the year 2002 and no one else was doing it. I couldn't understand that. But now, I see all the different agencies using biodiesel, and the plants that have been built, and it is a great feeling to have been a part of that."

In 2010, the National Biodiesel Board recognized Lopez at the annual Eye on Biodiesel awards, presenting him with the Influence Award at the National Biodiesel Conference & Expo.

He has mentored other fleets nationwide, and spoken at national events about this successful programs.

Watch video about Ramiro Lopez and the City of Irving.

Ramiro Lopez, Director, Contracts & Fuel Administration	City of Irving vehicle yard.
Adrian Martin, City of Irving Heavy Equipment Operator	Derrick Mc Donald, City of Irving Firefighter

Summer 2010