Why is this important?

The burning of fossil fuels releases greenhouse gas emissions, heat-trapping gases in the atmosphere that cause climate change and disruption. Removing older, less-fuel efficient vehicles from the roads leads to far fewer emissions from fossil fuels, thus preventing harmful air pollution, and helping the County meet climate action goals. Cash incentives provide drivers with resources to invest in newer, and more fuel-efficient vehicles including electric cars. This measure is part of efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions associated with automobiles.

Relatedly, the County Board of Supervisors approved an Electric Vehicle (EV) Roadmap in October 2019 which presents strategies for increasing conversion to EVs and installation of new EV infrastructure throughout the unincorporated county. Accelerating development of regional EV charging infrastructure will make it more attractive for people to drive an EV and further contribute to a cleaner regional fleet of automobiles.