Research and Innovative Technology Administration (RITA)
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Table 6-2. Milestones for Advancing Technologies, Plans, and Methods to Manage Impacts

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Research Product or Information Gained FY 07-08 FY 09-10
Environment and Energy    
Implement new continuous-descent approach noise and emission abatement procedure at low-traffic airports during nighttime operations x  
Determine feasibility of using continuous-descent approach procedures at airports with greater traffic levels and with mixed fleets and operations   x
Deploy elements of an Internet-based capability to inform the public about aircraft noise   x
Center for Environmental Excellence    
Document good practices through solicitation of case studies and best practices x x
Promote the advancement of Context-Sensitive Solutions x x
Identify and promote technology and geospatial innovations x x
Surface Transportation Environment and Planning Cooperative Research    
Advance technologies, plans, and methods to manage the impact of transportation on the environment x x
Hazardous Materials Transportation-Rail    
Research plans and methods for safe transportation of hazardous materials on railroads x x
National Fuel Cell Bus Technology Development Program    
Prepare transit vehicles for use of fuel cells x x
Protect the Environment and Promote Energy Independence    
Increase deployment of hybrid electric vehicles x x
Prepare transit vehicles for use of hydrogen x x
Improve energy efficiency of rail systems x x
Hydrogen Initiative    
See milestones for "Safety Rulemaking and Advanced Technologies" under Safety RD&T Strategy 3.    
Safety, Energy, and Environment    
Identify technologies and policies that encourage sustainability   x
Examine potential market-based mechanisms for increasing fuel economy   x
Conduct research to reduce transportation emissions   x
Pipeline Safety    
Improvements in pipeline damage prevention and leak detection x x
Improvements in pipeline operations, controls, and monitoring x x
Advanced Vehicle Technology    
Identify potential new research areas and prepare a strategic implementation plan x  
Bio-Based Transportation    
Complete tests of biofuels for compatibility with new and emerging exhaust after-treatment technologies x  
Publish a national fuel specification standard for biodiesel blends x  
Continue research to improve the energy efficiency of producing biofuels with a focus on cellulosic ethanol x  
Hydrogen R&D    
See milestones for "Safety Rulemaking and Advanced Technologies" under Safety RD&T Strategy 3.