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Introduction
Pollution refers to the introduction of harmful contaminants into the environment which can either be caused by human actions or result from natural disasters. Air pollution, in particular, is the contamination of the atmosphere of the environment by any physical, biological, or chemical elements that alter the natural form of the atmosphere. Sources of air pollution can be classified as natural, mobile, or stationary sources. Stationary sources include factories, smelting, and power plants. Mobile sources include trucks, planes, buses, and trains. Naturally occurring sources include windblown dust, volcanic emissions, and others. This paper seeks to discuss the effects of small gas-powered engines on air pollution and suggest possible solutions to reduce the levels of air pollution.
Small Gas Powered Engines
Most small engines with power output less than 25hp are considered off-highway engines and they produce numerous exhaust emissions arising from internal combustion. They include lawnmowers, cutting saws, generators, dry cleaners, welding machines, floor buffers, high-pressure washers, and garden implements. These small engines are considered significant pollutants to the atmosphere.
They emit poisonous gases such as carbon monoxide (CO), Nitrogen Oxides (NOX), and numerous Hydro Carbons. Others contain derivatives of Benzene which are considered carcinogenic. Diesel engines particularly lead to the development of small particles which are suspended in the air and eventually cause respiratory or cardiovascular problems and reduce capacity to resist infection. This particulate matter is responsible for environmental disasters such as corrosion and damage to vegetation.
Emission Levels of small powered engines
Greenbuildermag.com indicates that an estimated 54Million Americans mow their lawns each weekend. This utilizes close to 800 million gallons of gas per year. This has led to the production of tons of air pollutants within the atmosphere that has contributed to a buildup of dangerous and fatal concentrations. According to the Union of Concerned Scientists, a single gas mower assuming it runs for an hour will emit an equal amount of pollutants as eight new cars driving at a speed of 55Mph for the same duration of time.
One myth is that conversion of gasoline-powered devices to electronic devices will not reduce the amount of air pollution but will rather transfer it to the next device. This is a myth that should be dispelled. The controversy arises in the sense that individuals and homeowners run these machines outside their homes. Due to the level of intoxication by the machines in enclosed areas, they have to be used outdoors. If each person would consider the number of harmful fumes that they produce, they would easily work towards minimizing the level of emissions that each produces by considering several options.
Solutions to air pollution from small gas-powered engines
Several options are available to minimize the level of emissions produced by small gas-powered engines and in the long run, reduce the effect on the atmosphere. These solutions aim to reduce the contaminants that are released into the air.
The first option is to redesign the specifications of these engines. Manufacturers should invest in research and development to develop engines whose air-fuel ratios produce low emissions. The design of engines has previously been dominated by aspects such as output levels, costs, durability, and combustion levels. The focus must therefore shift to the creation of low emission engines which are friendly to the environment.
Eco-friendly options can also be utilized. Solar-powered engines which offer green alternatives can replace diesel engines. Human-powered engines like mowers that are manually pushed also reduce the levels of emission as no combustion of diesel are involved. Another option is to replace lawns with gardens or plant natural flora to eliminate the possibility of lawn mowing.
Machines can also be converted from gasoline power to electronic operation meaning that no poisonous fumes will be produced. Individuals and other homeowners should equally consider the use of tools and equipment powered by electricity instead of gasoline-based equipment. This implies that engines that use diesel for combustion will be eliminated and this, in turn, will reduce the level of emissions.
Government legislation can be enforced to regulate emission standards which determine levels and threshold of atmospheric concentrations for specific pollutants. Environmental organs and agencies should work closely with governments to ensure that these regulations are enacted. Another option is to raise awareness on environmental degradation and educate people on the need to conserve the environment. This can be undertaken by enlightening people on the effects of air pollution not only on the environment but also on their health. This seeks to develop a sense of environmental consciousness.
Conclusion
Despite the options that have been presented above, it is upon each individual to be eco-conscious and practice green living. Every small action undertaken should be based upon careful consideration of the consequences to the environment. The challenge posed by small engines is that they emit large portions of contaminants. It is important to work towards reducing the levels of contamination based on several options that have been presented above.
Works Cited
Jones, Ron. The Elephant in the Front Yard. n.d. Web.
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