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People and Technology
EPA, federal transportation and energy agencies, state and local governments, transportation planning agencies, community groups, and others are working to advance programs that focus directly on how we use and operate mobile sources:
- Consumer education teaches individuals environmentally friendly mobile source behavior such as vehicle maintenance and operation tips, options for commuting to reduce vehicle miles traveled , and landscaping concepts to reduce the use of polluting lawn and garden equipment.
- Alternative transportation choice programs help communities and individuals reduce vehicle travel. These programs provide incentives to take advantage of mass transit, carpooling, bicycling, telecommuting, and other strategies that reduce traffic congestion and pollution.
- Inspection/maintenance (I/M) programs, and on-board diagnostic (OBD) systems alert drivers when vehicles emit more pollutants than they should. I/M programs typically involve taking cars for periodic emissions tests. OBD systems use built-in, computerized monitors to detect emissions malfunctions. When malfunctions occur, the OBD system triggers a "check engine" light on the dashboard and stores information to help automotive technicians diagnose and correct the problem.
- Conformity programs require coordination between air quality and transportation planning at the state and local level. Conformity helps make sure transportation system improvements, such as new roads, do not conflict with initiatives to improve air quality.
Everybody has a stake in reducing mobile source pollution. Learn more about what you can do to make a difference.