Exhaust emissions from cars and industry contribute to air pollution and climate change. Catalytic converters treat some emissions, but larger cars produce more. Automakers and scientists are working on solutions, but individuals can also reduce emissions by maintaining their cars, driving at or below the speed limit, and using public transit.
Exhaust emissions are pollutants that escape from a car’s tailpipe when the engine is running. These emissions can reduce the quality of the surrounding air, an effect that is greatly multiplied in densely populated areas that have many cars on the roads. Many scientists believe that the combined effect of exhaust emissions and other particulate matter released into the atmosphere through industry is leading to global climate change.
A car engine produces many emissions, some of which are treated within the car’s catalytic converter by a chemical process that makes them less dangerous. When a car’s exhaust emissions are checked during an inspection, it is usually catalytic converter failure that causes them to exceed permitted levels. It could also be a muffler problem, which is the next stop for gases in an exhaust system.
Even if all parts of a car’s emissions control system are functioning properly, there is still potential damage to the atmosphere from the exhaust emissions that are released. Larger cars or SUVs, sometimes referred to as “drink gas,” consume more gasoline and therefore produce more tailpipe emissions. Hybrid cars that run on a combination of gasoline and a rechargeable electric source, however, produce fewer tailpipe emissions.
Some automakers are moving towards reducing exhaust emissions through improved designs. Many governing bodies are also setting limits that new vehicles will have to meet before they can hit the roads. Many scientists around the world are also working to find alternatives to petrol-powered cars and other industrial needs, thereby eliminating tailpipe emissions altogether.
Since it’s not possible for everyone to buy newer cars that are more effective at dealing with harmful exhaust emissions, people can help reduce the exhaust emissions of their current vehicles by getting them properly maintained. The more a car runs, the less harmful gases it releases. As part of maintaining their vehicle, car owners should check that the tires are inflated correctly, that oil changes are performed regularly, and that the car is never left idling for more than a few moments. Driving at or near the speed limit is also important because higher speeds burn more gas and produce more emissions. Finally, carpooling or public transit is a great way to reduce tailpipe emissions because it keeps more cars off the road.
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