With modern emissions technology and more fuel-efficient cars, why do I have to worry about a small matter like idling?
It’s true that automakers have succeeded in cleaning up most of the harmful substances emitted by vehicles. Compared with unregulated vehicles 30 years ago, today’s new cars generate 98 percent fewer hydrocarbons, 96 percent less carbon monoxide and 90 percent fewer nitrous oxides. But one element in tailpipe emissions can’t be “cleaned up” – carbon dioxide (CO2). This is the principle greenhouse gas linked to climate change. Every gallon of fuel that is burned produces about 19 pounds of CO2. The bottom line: the more fuel you use, the more CO2 you produce. And one of the best ways to cut fuel consumption is to avoid idling. After all, it gets you nowhere.
