Clean cars: Benefits for our air, wallets
Using many of the same arguments that have been used to fight safety
and emission regulations in the past, automakers, dealerships and their
trade associations often suggest that the costs of the Clean Cars
Program to automakers and consumers would be too steep. However, a new
report released in October by the Environment New Mexico Research &
Policy Center found that consumers and the state’s economy will benefit
as a result of the program, in addition to dramatically reducing air
pollution and global warming emissions from new cars, trucks and SUVs.
The
report, “Dollars and Sense: The Economic Impacts of a Clean Cars
Program in New Mexico,” found that oil consumption would be reduced,
New Mexicans would save $623 million at the pump annually, and
consumers would still have a full selection of vehicles to choose from.
As a result of this consumer savings and reduced emissions, the state
would benefit from reduced medical costs and job growth.
“This
report demonstrates that the Clean Cars Program is not only good for
the planet and for public health, but is also good for our
pocketbooks,” said Environment New Mexico Advocate Lauren Ketcham. “We
applaud our state leaders for making New Mexico the next state to bring
cleaner cars to its roads.”
Click here to read the full report.
