The Vancouver Police Department says in a report that it “recognizes the seriousness of climate issues”.

In response, the force has “made significant progress towards a greener fleet over the past several years”.

Moreover, the VPD will “continue to seek ways to replace existing vehicles with units that produce low or zero emissions”.

The report states that the department hopes to have 27 percent of its fleet consist of hybrid and electric vehicles by September 2022.

The greening of the fleet builds on its tradition of using alternative modes of transportation.

“For many years, the VPD has been a leader in deploying personnel on foot, bicycle and horse,” the report stated.

The document laid out what the force has done in recent years as part of its response to a complaint from a member of the public regarding the use of gas-powered all-terrain vehicles in parks, beaches and trails.

The deparment promised to replace these ATVs, currently numbering four, with “greener” models when these become available.

Meanwhile, all but four VPD patrol vehicles have been transitioned from the V8 Ford Crown Victoria to the more fuel efficient V6 Dodge Charger.

“This change effectively represents a 30 percent reduction in emissions or 660 tonnes per year,” Staff Sergeant Jason High wrote.

Also, of the 492 vehicles in the fleet, the VPD currently has 22 fully electric cars, two electric motorcycles, 38 hybrid vehicles, and two plug-in hybrid electric vehicles.

High likewise mentioned plans to replace 70 gas-powered vehicles with 25 hybrid patrol vehicles and 45 electric units for the investigation and administration vehicle pool by September 2022.

“By then the VPD’s fleet will consist of 27 percent (134 units) hybrid or electric vehicles,” the officer wrote.

As well, “Moving forward, when feasible, all new procurements will be either hybrid or electric.”