Cars: Reducing Air Pollution, Improving Our Health

Cars are a major contributor to air pollution, with vehicle exhaust fumes and fuel evaporation emitting pollutants such as nitrogen dioxide, carbon monoxide, hydrocarbons, benzene, and formaldehyde. However, there are ways to reduce air pollution from cars. Electric, hybrid, and fuel-efficient gas vehicles are becoming more affordable and accessible, and driving the cleanest vehicle possible can significantly reduce emissions. Additionally, driving less, carpooling, and maintaining proper tyre pressure can also help reduce pollution. Governments are also implementing initiatives such as clean air zones and emission control programs to tackle this issue.

Electric cars and zero-emissions vehicles

However, it is important to note that electric vehicles do have indirect emissions associated with electricity generation and battery manufacturing. The emissions from electricity generation depend on the energy sources used, with coal and natural gas resulting in higher carbon pollution than renewable sources like wind or solar. In areas with relatively low-polluting energy sources, electric vehicles have a significant life cycle emissions advantage over conventional gasoline or diesel vehicles.

Electric vehicles are also more energy-efficient than conventional gasoline vehicles. They use approximately 87-91% of the energy from the battery and regenerative braking to propel the vehicle, compared to gasoline vehicles which only convert about 16-25% of the energy from gasoline into movement. This higher efficiency results in lower greenhouse gas emissions over the lifetime of an electric vehicle compared to a gasoline car, even when accounting for emissions from manufacturing and charging.

Zero-emissions heavy-duty vehicles, such as electric trucks and buses, are also available and can help eliminate tailpipe pollution entirely. Electrifying freight systems and deploying zero-emissions trucks can significantly improve air quality and reduce heat-trapping emissions, especially in communities with poor air quality.

In addition to switching to electric or zero-emissions vehicles, there are other ways to reduce air pollution from cars. This includes driving less, driving smarter by observing speed limits and accelerating gradually, and maintaining your vehicle to ensure it runs efficiently.

Driving less and smarter

One of the most effective ways to reduce air pollution is to simply drive less. This can be achieved by opting for alternative modes of transportation, such as walking or biking, whenever possible. Carpooling, vanpooling, or using public transit can also help reduce the number of vehicles on the road and, consequently, the amount of pollution emitted.

When driving is necessary, making smart choices can help reduce pollution. This includes driving the cleanest and most fuel-efficient vehicle you can afford. Electric, hybrid, and compact fuel-efficient gas vehicles are becoming more affordable and widely available, offering a more environmentally friendly option for those who can make the switch.

Additionally, maintaining your vehicle and keeping it in good repair can help reduce emissions. Ensuring proper tire inflation, following the recommended maintenance schedule, and using the right motor oil can all contribute to a more efficient and less polluting vehicle. Contrary to popular belief, idling your car to "warm it up" is unnecessary and wastes fuel, so it is better to turn off the engine when stopped for extended periods.

Adopting efficient driving habits can also make a difference. Observing speed limits, accelerating gradually, and anticipating the road ahead to avoid constant stopping and starting can help reduce fuel consumption and emissions. These small changes in driving behaviour can collectively have a significant impact on reducing air pollution from vehicles.

Improving fuel efficiency

Reduce Wind Resistance

Wind resistance increases fuel consumption. Driving with the windows down at speeds faster than 80 km/h causes a lot of wind resistance, so it's more fuel-efficient to drive with the air conditioning on in these instances. Also, remove any roof-mounted cargo boxes when not in use, as these can reduce fuel economy by 8-25% at highway speeds.

Maintain Correct Tyre Pressure

Tyres that are underinflated have higher rolling resistance, increasing fuel consumption. If your tyres are underinflated by 10 psi, your fuel efficiency could be reduced by up to 10%. Check your tyre pressure regularly, especially in winter, and ensure they are inflated to the correct PSI for your vehicle.

Reduce Weight

The heavier your car, the more fuel it will use. Clear out any clutter, and remove any unnecessary add-ons or items from your boot. Every extra 50 kg can increase fuel consumption by 2%. Reducing wheel weight can also help, with lightweight rims and LRR (low rolling resistance) tyres improving efficiency and handling.

Avoid Hard Accelerations and Braking

Rapid acceleration and hard braking can lower your gas mileage by 10-40%. Getting a vehicle moving from a complete stop uses the most energy, so go easy on the accelerator and anticipate the road ahead. If you're driving an automatic car, use cruise control to keep your speed constant. If you're driving a manual, maintain a higher gear when appropriate.

Drive at Optimal Speeds

After reaching 45-50 mph, your car begins to lose fuel efficiency. Driving faster burns more fuel and emits more pollutants. Accelerating gradually and observing speed limits will help reduce fuel consumption and emissions.

Reducing air pollutants

Cars are a major contributor to air pollution. However, there are many ways to reduce air pollutants from vehicles.

One way is to choose a cleaner and more fuel-efficient vehicle. Electric, hybrid, and compact fuel-efficient gas vehicles are great options for reducing pollution and saving money. Zero-emission vehicles, such as electric cars, trucks, and buses, can help eliminate tailpipe pollution and promote the development of clean, renewable energy sources. Additionally, choosing the right vehicle for your needs is essential; for example, if you require a larger vehicle, comparing the fuel economy of available options can help reduce pollution and costs.

Another way to reduce air pollution is to drive less and smarter. This includes reducing the number of miles driven, avoiding short trips, and combining multiple shorter trips. Walking, biking, or taking public transportation are excellent alternatives to driving. Carpooling and utilizing ride-sharing services can also help reduce the number of vehicles on the road.

The way you drive also makes a difference. Observing speed limits, accelerating gradually, and anticipating the road ahead to avoid constant stopping and starting can help reduce fuel consumption and emissions.

Proper vehicle maintenance is crucial for reducing air pollution. Keeping your car in good repair and ensuring it runs efficiently can lower emissions. Regular servicing, maintaining proper tyre pressure, and ensuring devices like diesel particulate filters are in good working order can improve fuel efficiency and reduce pollution.

Finally, government policies and initiatives play a significant role in reducing air pollution from vehicles. Implementing clean air zones, improving road layouts and traffic flow, and encouraging the use of public transportation or active travel options like cycling and walking can collectively contribute to cleaner air.

Policy changes and emission control programs

The EPA's efforts have not been in isolation, as they have collaborated closely with the State of California, a partnership that has yielded notable results. California's early recognition of the link between vehicle emissions and air pollution, established in the 1950s, set the stage for their pioneering role in this arena. The state's stringent standards and adoption of zero-emission vehicle (ZEV) policies have been instrumental in shaping national efforts.

The Clean Air Act allowed New York State to emulate California's ZEV standards, and New York joined forces with seven other states to promote zero-emission vehicles. This initiative, outlined in the Multi-State Zero-Emission Vehicle Action Plan for 2018-2021, aimed to increase consumer awareness and demand for ZEVs, including electric, plug-in hybrid, and hydrogen fuel-cell vehicles.

The EPA's emission standards have driven the automotive industry to innovate, leading to the development of new emission control technologies. These advancements have not only reduced pollution but also enhanced vehicle quality, reliability, and durability. Examples of such technologies include computers, fuel injection, and on-board diagnostics. Additionally, the EPA has provided regulatory and policy support for vehicle emission control programs, including inspection and maintenance (I/M) emissions testing programs.

Beyond regulatory measures, public education has been a key component of policy changes. Initiatives like the Clean School Bus Program aim to reduce unnecessary idling, which not only wastes fuel but also contributes to air pollution and poses health risks, especially for children. Proper vehicle maintenance, such as regular oil changes and tire pressure checks, is also emphasized to ensure vehicles operate as efficiently and cleanly as possible.

Frequently asked questions