Environment DEC
From the September 2007 issue
New Legislation Will Enable Consumers to Compare Vehicle Emissions
Governor Eliot Spitzer has signed legislation designed to increase consumer awareness about greenhouse gas emissions. This law requires that automobile manufacturers affix a "global warming index" sticker to new cars and passenger trucks beginning in the 2010 model year, detailing carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gas emissions. New York is the second state in the nation to pass this innovative environmental legislation.
New York State Department of Environmental Conservation Commissioner Pete Grannis applauded this legislation, saying the label would be a valuable tool for consumers, similar to mileage ratings for cars: "This legislation will promote environmental consumerism by providing user-friendly information to enable buyers to take into consideration the impact a vehicle's emissions have on air quality and climate change."
It is hoped that consumers will choose greener cars, like this electric hybrid, after comparing information about vehicle emissions
Sticker Stats
The requirement takes effect beginning with 2010 models and applies to passenger vehicles and light-duty trucks with a gross weight of 8,500 pounds or less. Each sticker will include an index that (1) compares the emissions of global warming gases from the vehicle with the average projected emissions from all vehicles of the same model year and (2) identifies the vehicle model within its class with the lowest emissions of that model year. The index would be based on emissions of carbon dioxide, a major contributor to warming temperatures worldwide, in addition to methane, nitrous oxide, hydrofluorocarbons, perfluorocarbons and sulfur hexafluoride.
New York likely will model its labeling standards based on those set by California. By having parallel standards, automobile manufacturers would not be required to develop different stickers for different states, and consumer groups would be able to provide uniform information to car buyers.
