The Automobile Industry, Ecology, and Conservation of Raw Materials and Energy 785087
The paper surveys the harmful effects of the automobile industry
in all its ramifications, and suggests ways of improvement. The
general format is:
- Negative effects of factory operations on workers and nearby
residents: Combustion products and industrial chemicals are
particularly dangerous; some recycling is possible.
- Vehicle-produced air pollution: Attempts are presently being
made to establish pollutants' effects on health. Most European
countries already have initiated regulations; engine design
developments are reviewed.
- Vehicle-produced noise: Both vehicle design and acoustic
measures for traffic networks offer improvements. Six European
countries have instituted noise limits.
- Physical danger of collision: International standardization of
roadways and continuing vehicle development must be pursued.
Further reduction of driver error through technical, educational,
and legislative (anti-alcohol) measures is required.
- Traffic planning: Coordination of roadways, pedestrian areas,
and parking with the needs of surrounding residential, commercial,
and industrial zones is required.
- Fuel and material requirements of vehicles: Fuel conservation
requires further engine and transmission development. Material
recycling must intensify; service-lives must be extended
17th FISITA Congress (1978), Budapest, Hungary