BYD (Build Your Dreams) announced it took the pledge to participate in the 5th annual California Clean Air Day and congratulated the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) for providing more funding to its School Bus Program.

California Clean Air Day is described by its organizers as a unified day of action to create new habits to clear the air, according to BYD's news release. Organizers said organizations and individuals could take the pledge to commit to doing their part in improving community health.

Patrick Duan, SVP of operations at BYD, said the organization was thrilled to take part and praised the EPA announcement.

“BYD has consistently shown our commitment to reduce transportation emissions while providing solutions with our battery electric vehicles," Duan said. "BYD takes the pledge today and every day because the overall well-being of others and the environment is our priority. It’s encouraging to see the high demand for clean air and transit.”

On Sept. 29, the EPA announced that the Clean School Bus Program’s original plan to award $500 million will nearly double to $965 million following increased demand for clean school buses. They expect to award another $1 billion in 2023, according to BYD.