Prince Edward Island will adopt tougher emission standards for vehicles to reduce air pollution and greenhouse gases that contribute to climate change. Speaking from the Council of the Federation meeting in Moncton, New Brunswick, Premier Robert Ghiz said vehicle emission standards are an excellent example of how governments can work together to protect and improve the environment for their citizens.
“This is not something that Prince Edward Island could effectively do alone because we are a small market. But by taking action in co-operation with neighbouring provinces and states, we can make a difference,” said Premier Ghiz. “Together, we can influence industry to invest in technologies that help improve air quality and lessen the impacts of climate change.”
The standards Prince Edward Island adopts will be similar to those first introduced in California. They will reduce tailpipe emissions in new vehicles by about 25 per cent. The positive impact of the tougher standards will multiply as more new vehicles are bought and older ones taken off the road.
Minister of Environment, Energy and Forestry George Webster said it’s estimated the new standards will cut emissions in Prince Edward Island by 53,000 tonnes a year by 2017 – the equivalent of taking 10,000 cars off the road.
“That is going to protect public health because the air we breathe will be cleaner,” said Minister Webster. “And because vehicles will be more fuel efficient, the other benefit is that Island drivers will save an estimated $25 million a year in reduced gasoline costs by 2017. That amounts to fuel savings of $3,500 to $5,000 over the lifetime of a vehicle.”
Because of the lead time the automotive industry needs to prepare for the tougher vehicle emission standards, it is expected that they will take effect in 2010 at the earliest.
Tougher vehicle emission standards have been adopted by 11 other states, including all but one of the New England states. Several Canadian provinces have also announced their intention to adopt similar standards.
Minister Webster said a national working group has begun work on developing the necessary amendments to legislation or regulations. In Prince Edward Island, the emission standards will be part of the Environmental Protection Act Air Quality Regulations.
The Council of the Federation meeting wraps up today. The Premiers have been discussing issues related to energy and climate change. On Thursday, they released an energy strategy and action plan that includes the promotion of energy efficiency and renewable energy.