California has set a brilliant example to other states of USA. It has recognised the worsening quality of its air and has implemented strict measures to control the damage. Among its initiatives to reduce pollution, it has made it mandatory for cars manufactured after 1976 to participate in a biennial smog check program . It is done on gas-powered vehicles older than six years to ensure that they follow the state required norms regarding smog emission.

 

California has an upsetting history with air pollution and houses the three cities with the highest ozone (smog) levels in the country. With one car for every adult in the state, it was rightly observed by lawmakers that a control in smog emission of cars may significantly improve the quality of air in the state. Air pollution at this magnitude has affected every aspect of life in California. About 90% of the residents live in areas that do not meet federal clean air standards, more than in any other state. It adversely affects the health of the residents and has accounted for over $193 million in hospital-based care for ailments caused by air pollution. The instances of premature deaths, lung ailments and respiratory problems have skyrocketed along with the levels of air pollution.

 

Apart from human life, the environment in California has also taken a hit. The state has seen a rise in hot temperatures in day time and night time and an extension of the summer months. It has also affected the agricultural and energy business sectors. Research has shown that the emission of carbon dioxide of Ford, DaimlerChrysler and DM has been more than the top 11 electric companies. Such statistics clearly show that the focus should be on the automobiles in the state if any effort is to be made to improve the state of the air.

 

 Without strict measures to control air pollution and a respect to the laws of the state, the future of California as a world leader looks bleak. The fast and posh lifestyles of the cities of California cannot pose a façade on the reality of its deteriorating health for long.  The Smog Check Program is a brilliant initiative to start its healing process and must be followed by other states of the country as well. It does not allow registration of a vehicle to continue until a smog certificate has been obtained by the owner. It has so far succeeded in reducing 400 tons of smog-forming pollutants daily and has proven to be an excellent reform to prevent any further damage to the air. Our environment would be far worse without such measures and the support from the residents has been an important catalyst for the implementation of positive reforms in the state.

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