The consequences of being declared
a non-attainment area are very serious. In addition to being labeled
with unhealthy air quality, non-attainment carries an undesirable
economic impact.
Non-attainment areas are required
to come up with a plan to clear the air. This plan would probably
consist of several mandated clean-up components which would be
costly to our economy. Some of the possible strategies may include:
-
Stricter emission requirements
for automobiles could be imposed. The cost of inspection,
and the cost of repair for autos that don't meet the new requirements
could be quite high.
-
Reformulated gasoline or lower
vapor pressure gasoline could be mandated during ozone season.
The cost of gasoline could increase.
-
Many area industries could be
required to install additional equipment at their manufacturing
facilities. The expense would mean a higher cost of doing
business for companies already in the area, and it could mean
some companies would relocate rather than bear the cost. In
addition, companies looking to locate in Tulsa might decide
to build in attainment areas to avoid the added emissions
control equipment expense. Loss of jobs has a ripple effect
on everyone in the community.
The ozone problem won't go away by
itself, but together we can clear Tulsa's air.
