Pat Quinn, Governor
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Pat Quinn, Governor |
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News Releases - 1996New Marine Engine Standards to Reduce Smog-causing Emissions
Chicago -- As the Labor Day weekend approaches, many of the 47,000 Chicago-area motor boat enthusiasts may be eager to hit the water for one last time before the summer ends. But marine engines can contribute more than 23 tons of smog-causing emissions on a typical summer day, according to experts at the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). The U.S. EPA will soon be issuing new regulations for marine engine manufacturers that will require new marine engines produced in 1998 and later to meet increasingly tougher standards, with a goal of reducing smog-causing emissions 75 percent by 2007. The regulations do not affect existing engines. Marine engines aren’t usually thought of as large pollution sources. Yet, they are responsible for 3 percent of summertime air pollution nationwide. According to U.S. EPA statistics, operating an average marine engine for an hour can produce as much air pollution as driving a new car for 800 miles. And boaters usually take advantage of hot, sunny days that are conducive to smog formation. Although the new engines may cost more, the new technology promises greater performance and improved fuel efficiency along with cleaner air. The Illinois EPA asks boaters to remember these pollution-reducing tips:
Limit boat use when an Ozone Action Day is called by the Partners for Clean Air coalition. |
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