Despite the fact that air pollution is a major environmental risk to health, it is curious that Utah doesn’t seem to care about that as much as it does about smoking. If it did, the governor and Legislature would have adopted California's Zero Emission Vehicle program, as have 10 other states.
If we believe the statistic that cars are a major cause of air pollution, then that puts us, the consumer, in a position of leverage. I can't drive to work and back without seeing all-electric vehicles or hybrids on the road. Plug-in hybrids that are now starting to be available have a limited all-electric range that is enough to get most to work and back on a single charge.
Scientists have found that battery electric cars generate half the emissions of the average comparable gasoline car, even when pollution from battery manufacturing is accounted for. They are also much quieter.
Let’s pressure our leaders to adopt California’s ZEV program. Those buying a new car now have options that will make a real difference to our air quality. As consumers, we have the power to effect change — from both manufacturers and our leaders.
Scot Morgan, Salt Lake City
