Keys to photochemical smog control

Abstract

Reduction of ozone, aerosols, and other secondary pollutants by controlling both HC and NO/sub x/ would help control photochemical smog. A number of oxidant control strategies are being developed and implemented. In this control-developing process, the pressing need is to accommodate tradeoffs between environmental quality, energy constraints, and economic policies in the air pollution system. Installation of positive crankcase ventilation (PCV) devices on new and used cars has helped to control a major source of HC and NO/sub x/ emissions. A second control step was the establishment of exhaust emission standards for HC and CO. Catalyst devices or afterburners have served to control HC and CO and to improve fuel economy. Reduction of legal speed limits, expansion of public transportation and future legal, economic and societal constraints could decrease exhaust emissions. Meteorology plays a critical role in establishing ambient pollutant concentrations. Photochemical oxidants cause significant reductions in crop yields but little is known about chronic health effects of smog on man. Unfortunately, because of inflation research funding for air pollution science and technology has become almost nonexistent. (MU)