Volvo is launching a campaign to have local air pollutants such as NOx, hydrocarbons and particulates recognised in a ratings system equal to the emphasis placed on CO2 emissions.

“The definition of green motoring and what constitutes car pollution needs to change in the public perception,” said Volvo Car UK boss Peter Rask. “To many, it

is solely about CO2 at the expense of a wider range of air pollutants. We at Volvo believe the public need to be educated so they appreciate that CO2 affects the environment at large whilst the other emissions – NOx, hydrocarbons and particulates – are polluting the air directly around us and thus affecting our personal health.”

The company has started a campaign for a labelling system to sit alongside the CO2 labelling already in operation.

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