Eleven states have agreed to come up with a regional low carbon fuel standard which would reduce greenhouse gas emissions from cars and trucks, while at the same time helping the country to wean itself off its dependence on oil.

Connecticut, Delaware, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island and Vermont all agreed on the initiative which would create a ceiling on the average amount of greenhouse gases emitted in the development and burning of fuels.

“Working together, the 11 states from Maine to Delaware will cut greenhouse gas emissions from cars and trucks, spur the development of clean energy technologies like advanced bio-fuels and electric cars, and reduce our dependence on petroleum,” Massachusetts Secretary of Energy and Environmental Affairs Ian Bowles said in a statement.

California was the first state to enact such a carbon fuel standard plan, which is currently under development.

“Like California, these other states are leading the way in recognizing that we must take action now to fight global warming,” California Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger said.

Transportation accounts for roughly one-third of greenhouse gas emissions in the United States.

“This partnership will work closely on a standard for the entire region,” said Governor Ed Rendell on Monday, announcing the agreement. “In conjunction with Pennsylvania’s energy policies to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and increase clean energy development, this work done by this partnership will ultimately grow our economy and protect our planet by fostering a cleaner environment.”