r 4 t ’ : . ; •‘ : : •I4I - ,j-- -: -- - ! --‘ st , - . .1 I .rI iiI,i : -J : ------- r Low-Pollution Marine Engines: GEE QN HOARD A Cleaner Way to Enjoy Boating NEW ENGLAND CLEAN ENGINE PARTNERS The Problem of Marine Engine Pollution New England has thousands of ponds and lakes, and thousands of miles of river and coastal waters. These water bodies provide outdoor enthusiasts with many opportunities to enjoy boating. Until recently, most outboard engines and personal watercraft were powered by conventional carbureted two-stroke marine en- gines. These traditional engines have adverse impacts on the environment. Up to 30% of the fuel passes through the combus- lion chamber unburned or partially burned, thereby being re- leased directly into the water and air as pollution. • In the air, unburned gasoline results in hydro-carbon emissions, which contribute to the formation of ground- level ozone or smog. Smog can irritate the respiratory system and aggravate existing respiratory conditions such as asthma. • In the water, gasoline elevates concentrations of benzene, MTBE, and other toxics. Low-Pollution Marine Engines reduce water pollution by reducing the amount of gasoline re/eased into surface waters. ------- Low-Pollution Marine Engines are Now Available The GOOD NEWS is that cleaner, low-pollution outboard and personal watercraft marine engines are available from New England marine engine retailers. These engines are better for the environment, easier to maintain, and more fuel efficient. They generally cost more, but the benefits are substantial for the environment, for your boating enjoyment, and for saving money in the long run. Two Types of Low-Pollution Engines • 4-Stroke Engines This technology prevents unburned fuel from escaping through the exhaust valve, which significantly reduces hydrocarbon emissions. No oil mixing with gasoline also improves overall engine performance. • 2-Stroke Direct Fuel Injection Engines New technology two-stroke engines feature direct fuel injection which directly introduces the fuel into the combustion chamber. As a result, the up to 30% fuel loss experienced with the traditional technology is eliminated, with an overall fuel economy improvement. ------- Benefits of Low-Pollution Marine Engines • Burn 35% to 50% less gas • Use up to 50% less oil cleaner, low-pollution • Save money over the life of the engine outboard and personal watercraft marine • Reduce air emissions by 75% or more engines are better for the environment easier • Reduce water pollution by reducing to maintain, and more the amount of gasoline released into fuel efficient surface waters • Are easier to start • Have a more precise throffle response • Are quieter • Reduce smoke and fumes • Are better for New England’s environment! ------- F , ith the cooperation of marine engine manufacturers, U.S. EPA has issued regulations designed to significantly reduce the amount of pollutants released from outboard and personal watercroft engines. From 1998 to 2006, average air emission standards for outboard and personal wotercraft engine manufacturers will become increasingly more stringent. Controlling these exhaust emissions will result in on unprecedented 75% reduction in hydrocarbon emissions Ofrom these engines by the year 2025. To achieve the yearly emissions reductions required by the regulations, it is anticipated that manufacturers will each year build increasing numbers of lower emission engines. To encourage consumers to purchase cleaner burning marine engines before the final standard goes into effect in 2006, EPA New England is teaming up with New England state environmental agencies, the National MarIne Manufacturers Association, the Marine Retailers Association of America, and New England state marine trades associations in launching a New England-wide Clean Marine Engine Initiative. These new engines deliver improved performance, reduced fuel usage and reduced emissions. Although the new marine engines cost about 15% more than traditional ones, savings from decreased fuel consumption help offset the higher purchase price, resulting in a “win-win” situation for both consumers and the environment. 1 1 Ii. •,,.. ------- ho-Friendly Booting Tips The fol Io wing are some commonly known fueling and engine maintenance practices: Fueling Proper fueling reduces the infroduction olgasoline into the water • Ensure boat stability when fueling • Use a spill-proof gasoline container • Use fuel collars to capture splash/drips • Use bilge pillows and engine pads to absorb oils and fuels, and dispose of them properly • Close the vent on portable gas tanks when the engine is not in use or when tank is stored • Do not rely on automatic nozzle shutoffs, the fuel filling nozzle should be attended at all times • Avoid topping off gas tanks Engine Maintenance Good engihe maintenance improves operating efficiency and reduces emissions. • Limit engine operation at full throttle, and eliminate unnecessary idling • Repair gas and oil leaks immediately • Check, clean and flush engine away from the water • Keep engine properly tuned • Pre pare engines properly for winter storage • Do not fog the engine in the water • Contain all waste and recycle or dispose of properly ------- |