Published on:
16
April 2009
Drivers can have their vehicle exhaust emission checked for free at a special event in later this month.
The Eco Driving Day takes place at Candleriggs car park, Alloa, on Monday 27th April from 10am to 4pm.
There's no need to book and all drivers who have their vehicle tested will be given a goody bag.
You are invited to send a photographer to Candleriggs car park at 3pm on 27th April when Councillor Eddie Carrick will be taking part in the Eco Driving Day.
Experts say that 20% of badly tuned cars cause 70% of vehicle pollution, and a badly tuned car costs more to run - burning a hole in your pocket as well as the environment.
Officers from West Lothian Council will be carrying out the emission tests while mechanics from local garage SMS will be on hand to carry out basic vehicle maintenance checks and offer advice.
Experts from the Energy Saving Trust will be offering advice on 'eco driving' techniques - eco driving could save you hundreds of pounds a year in petrol or diesel.
And staff from Clackmannanshire Council will have information and promotional material on all aspects of sustainable travel.
Councillor Carrick, the Council's Portfolio Holder for Sustainability, said: "Clackmannanshire has some of the best air quality in the country and the work of the Council's sustainability team to reduce vehicle emissions will help to keep it that way. There is no doubt that vehicle emissions are harmful to the environment, but this event is not about penalising drivers. Our aim is to give feedback to people who's vehicle exhaust emissions do not meet the required standard and to provide tips on how you can help to prevent the deterioration of air quality by keeping your vehicle well maintained. I am looking forward to taking part in the event."
Lesley Deans, the Council's Principal Transportation Planner, added: "We want people to think twice about using the car and look at alternative transport. However, we appreciate that for some people this is not really possible if they travel long distances daily to work or need to use the car at different times of the day. So we hope that lots of motorists will use this free emissions testing day so they can tell if their car engine is working efficiently."