Drive Fewer Miles in a Less-Polluting Car

 
Newer, lighter cars emit substantially less nitrogen oxide into the air than the vehicles from years ago.  For example, a hybrid purchased in 2006 emits only one-hundredth as much nitrogen oxide per mile as a typical car produced in the 1970s did.  While nitrogen oxide emissions from a newer SUV or light truck are ten times higher than for a hybrid, they have also decreased substantially in the last two decades.
Despite these improvements in the amount of nitrogen pollution emitted from  particular vehicles, the amount of nitrogen polluting the Bay annually as a result of atmospheric pollution has decreased by only 2% since 1985.  Population increases in the Chesapeake Bay region and an increase in driving have apparently offset the improvements in individual car emissions. 
 
What can you do to help?  Drive a newer, lighter car whenever possible and decrease the number of miles you drive.   The Bay thanks you!