When cars operate, we often see tailpipes emit toxic gases into the air. The emissions that come out of cars impair air quality and have many other detrimental effects to the environment that adversely affect human, plant and animal life.

Health Concerns

Inhaling gases released from car exhaust can have many detrimental health effects. Some common ailments induced from poor quality airs are headaches, respiratory problems, poor resistance to disease and detrimental effects to the central nervous system.

Monetary Costs

Smog induced health problems can lower resistency and cost money in medical care and prolonged hospital visits. Additionally, money and time must be spent creating laws and products that will help improve the air quality.

Emissions Facilitate Acid Rain

Car exhaust contains nitrogen oxides and sulfer dioxide, which combine with water or oxygen to become acidic. When acid rain contacts water, the high acidity can adversely affect animal or plant species causing death or decay. Since the food chain generally relies on species surviving based on available food within the chain, this could eventually cause species not directly killed by acid rain to die out as well.

Exhaust Promotes Global Warming

Car exhaust contains carbon dioxide which contributes to an increase in temperature causing the earth to get progressively warmer. The warm temperatures can make it easier for certain insects to thrive and may adversely affect the ability of certain crops to grow. Ultimately, the change in ecosystems could affect a wide variety of species.

Sensory Discomfort

Exhaust can obscure vision and create an unpleasant odor.

Source:

Fuel and Car Emissions Facts & Health Effects

Cleanairtrust: Acid Rain

Global Warming: What is Global Warming?

More Information:

Global Warming Effects: 10 Startling Facts from 2009