Air Time: Cars at center of several air quality concerns

By Seth Preston, Communications Manager, Air Quality Program

This is national Air Quality Awareness Week, so in recognition of that, Ecology’s Air Quality Program is offering a look this week at some key Washington air issues.

Cars

Many of us love driving our cars or at least see them as a valuable tool for everyday living. But motor vehicles also are a major source of air pollution.

At Ecology, we’re working on a number of air quality issues linked to automobiles. Here are some:

• Emissions testing is required in specific areas around the state. This reduces air pollution by identifying the most polluting vehicles and requiring proper repairs.
  
• Dealers must sell “clean cars” in Washington to reduce climate-changing greenhouse gases and other pollutants.
  
• If you drive, you can save money and reduce pollution by properly maintaining your vehicle’s engine.
  
• We’re exploring the possible use of low-carbon fuels.
  

In addition, the Washington State Department of Transportation is working on air quality issues – check out what WSDOT is doing.

Next up: Ecology and DNR are teaming up on an innovative project that reduces dangers from wildfires and smoke pollution.

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