By Denny Boyles

What's being called the first compressed natural gas and electric hybrid garbage truck has gone to work in Fresno, in what officials called the next step to a more environmentally friendly city.

"This is a Prius with an appetite for trash," said Rene Ramirez, Fresno's Public Utilities Director.

The hybrid truck is expected to offer a 40% improvement in fuel economy, saving the city $1,400 in fuel costs each year over a traditional garbage truck.

"It will also reduce smog-forming emission by 90%," Ramirez said. "It will help us be good stewards of the environment, and provide a good example to the community."

Read the full story at fresnobee.com.