Overview
More cars mean more air pollution
Arizona’s population is on track to double by 2030—which will mean many more cars on our roads. Vehicle exhaust creates ground-level ozone, an air pollutant that affects public health problems like asthma and lung disease.
A number of states have already adopted the Clean Cars Program, which establishes limits on health-damaging pollution from automobiles and paves the way for the widespread introduction of technologies with the potential to reduce pollution—such as hybrids and fuel-cell vehicles.
The clean car solution
We know that automakers can make cars that are more efficient and release less pollution, while offering us the amenities and styles to which we are accustomed. Yet, automakers that had previously resisted public safety features including seat belts and air bags have filed lawsuits to block implementation of cleaner cars.
Cleaner cars save consumers money through better performance and lower operating costs. With Arizonans spending less at the gas pump, profits usually exported to foreign oil-producers can be kept in the local economy.
Clean cars are ready to roll
Over the last year, Arizona PIRG has led efforts to ensure a favorable recommendation for the Clean Cars Program—with impressive results.
Not only did a set of diverse stakeholders show support for the program, the governor included it in an executive order last September. Arizona PIRG is building support for our state to move forward and conduct the necessary process to put cleaner cars on the road.
Bringing cleaner cars to Arizona
As Arizona’s roads fill with new cars, our air is paying the price. Arizona PIRG is supporting the Clean Cars Program, already adopted by 11 other states. The program will:
- Set strong standards for emissions of air pollutants;
- Promote advanced-technology vehicles such as hybrids and electric cars; and
- Save consumers money through better performance and lower operating costs.
Arizona PIRG is urging Gov. Napolitano to make Arizona the next state to bring cleaner cars to our roads.
