Older cars’ emissions go unchecked

CHICAGO


Nationwide, about 70% of the 238 million cars and trucks in use are 1996 or later models, the Environmental Protection Agency says. Cars older than 1996 models account for about one-fourth of miles driven but contribute more than two-thirds of total auto air pollution, says Joel Schwartz, an environmental consultant in Sacramento.

The EPA has raised emissions standards for new cars several times over the past three decades, so new cars operate more cleanly. Car emissions include hydrocarbons and other compounds that contribute to greenhouse gases and ground-level ozone, or smog.

USA Today