What is the Difference Between CARB Compliant and EPA?

Emission Control

 

While the engines used in smaller off-road and handheld devices are comparatively low-powered, there are a lot of these engines on the market, and they can contribute to a huge amount of pollution. Until the early 2000s, these engines were not strictly controlled, and because of this, the number of emissions from nonroad engines reached the point where in many cities it was contributing to around 15 to 20 percent of the pollution in the cities. The emissions that the government is concerned about include hydrocarbons, carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide, nitrogen oxides, and particulate matter.

 

- Hydrocarbons: these are partially burned, or unburned, fuel molecules which can react in the atmosphere and produce ozone at the ground level. They are also a component of smog. There are some concerns that hydrocarbons can be carcinogenic and that they can also contribute to other health conditions. Hydrocarbon pollution can occur when gasoline vapors escape the fuel tank, which can happen during refueling. Fuel spills are also responsible for some of this pollution.

 

- Nitrogen Oxides: These are produced when nitrogen and oxygen are combined under high pressure and high-temperature conditions. They can react with hydrocarbons and produce ground-level ozone. They are thought to be a major cause of acid rain.

- Carbon Dioxide: When carbon-based fuels, such as gasoline, are burned in an oxygen-rich environment, then carbon dioxide is produced. Carbon dioxide is not harmful to human health - indeed our own respiratory processes produce it. Plants will use carbon dioxide and release oxygen. However, carbon dioxide is a greenhouse gas that contributes to global warming. Carbon dioxide production should be kept to a minimum. The less fuel-efficient an engine is, the more carbon dioxide it will produce.

 

- Carbon Monoxide: If fuel is burned in an environment that does not have enough oxygen, and the combustion is incomplete, then carbon monoxide is produced. Carbon monoxide is odorless, colorless, and highly toxic. If people are exposed to carbon monoxide it will build up in their bloodstream and impair their blood's ability to transport oxygen around the body. This can eventually be fatal.

- Particulate Matter: Diesel-fuelled vehicles will sometimes release microscopic airborne particles, which are what gives diesel exhaust its distinctive odor. These particles can damage the respiratory system when inhaled.

 

EPA Tier 3

 

The CARB and EPA standards are constantly being updated, with the goal of reducing emissions. The latest Pase III standards aim to drastically reduce the pollution from cars, trucks, and other vehicles. They have required that companies reduce the sulfur content of gasoline, and that vehicle makers improve their emission control technology - improving catalytic converters, and setting new standards for vehicles in terms of fuel efficiency.

 

Transport is the biggest source of air pollution across the United States, and the Tier 3 standards will offer huge public health benefits. Tier 4 standards have been introduced for improving Nox emissions and reducing particulate matter from diesel engines.

The regulations are being improved and updated year after year, and have so far done a good job of ensuring that even as there are more cars on the road the emissions in total are reduced.

 

As a buyer, you do not need to do anything to remain compliant with the law - however, if you care about the environment then it is a good idea to make an effort to ensure that any engines or vehicles that you purchase are indeed compliant. Check the website of the manufacturer or ask the retailer for confirmation if you have any concerns. They will be happy to answer any questions and to help you navigate the confusing legislation so that you can buy with confidence.