The conference proceedings include such topics as achieving balance between a cleaner environment and economic growth, the urban ozone abatement problem, the status of the modeling of ozone formation and geographic movement in the Midwest, cost effectiveness of remote sensing of vehicle emissions, incentives and the car, health impacts of ozone, emissions offset trading programs, and the regional economic impacts of marketable permit programs.

The objective of this research study was to perform a thorough evaluation of the feasibility and cost implications for initial system installation and ongoing program and maintenance costs for a Land Port of Entry truck emissions program utilizing Heavy Duty Remote Sensing technology. This study includes funding recommendations to maintain such a program. To meet the study objective, project tasks included the following: 1) Develop a work plan for approval by the Technical Advisory Committee, 2) Review the literature on cross-border truck traffic, truck emissions, and truck emissions testing, 3) Prepare a detailed data collection plan, 4) Implement the data collection plan and provide detailed discussion and analysis to support the proposed testing program's elements and cost components, 5) Prepare a final report and a four-page research note. Cost data were developed for each alternative and includes figures for capital equipment installation and five years of operation and maintenance expenses. The present worth costs for each data plan utilizing contract labor ranged from $1,320,828 to $2,177,467. If employees of ADOT or ADEQ are used, the present worth costs range between $1,140,349 and $1,923,247. While it is obvious that the use of employees is less expensive than contract labor, the agency could find it difficult to attract highly skilled employees for a proposed HDRS emissions measurement program at the Arizona-Mexico border. It is important to note that measurement of emissions by remote sensing is still an emerging technology that has limitations in its application. ADOT can partner with ADEQ to determine if a monitoring program is warranted at the border at this time. ADEQ has an established air quality monitoring program throughout the state and has trained staff, equipment, and facilities to support such a program.

RFF University Fellow Wallace Oates has assembled much of RFF's best work in a new volume that provides teachers and students, the public policy community, and informed readers with a broader, deeper perspective on natural resources and the environment. This treasure trove of balanced and authoritative analysis belongs on the bookshelf of any individual or institution concerned about environmental policy.

Emissions inspection and maintenance (I/M) programs subject vehicles to periodic inspections of their emission control systems. Despite widespread use of these programs in air-quality management, policy makers and the public have found a number of problems associated with them. Prominent among these issues is the perception that emissions benefits and other impacts of I/M programs have not been evaluated adequately. Evaluating Vehicle Emissions Inspection and Maintenance Programs assesses the effectiveness of these programs for reducing mobile source emissions. In this report, the committee evaluates the differences in the characteristics of motor vehicle emissions in areas with and without I/M programs, identifies criteria and methodologies for their evaluation, and recommends improvements to the programs. Most useful of all, this book will help summarize the observed benefits of these programs and how they can be redirected in the future to increase their effectiveness.