NASCAR ENVIRONMENTAL EFFECTS

Consumption of Fuels:

Based on the statistics provided by NASCAR, as much as 6000 gallons get consumed during the distinctive weekend NEXTEL Cup. In the 2006 season, which is inclusive of the 36 point races, the season total would be equivalent to as much as 2, 16,000 gallons. A staunch critic stated that, the total fuel consumption of NASCAR for all series added together would total to around 2 million gallons of gas for a period spanning a single season. The methodology used in the estimation is still under dispute.

Pollution and Emission:

The above consumption statistics provide no understanding of the impact on the environment with regards to the emissions. The vehicles for NASCAR are generally unstructured by the EPA. Specifically, these don’t involve any catalytic converters, mufflers, or control devices for other emissions. However, for the local short tracks, the sanction of NASCAR is essential for the containment of certain emissions. At the beginning of the Craftsman Truck Series, races were organized at locations in which mufflers were needed. Till date, the mufflers are used in the AutoZone West and Busch East races.

Lead Additives:

Till the end of February, 2007, NASCAR incessantly continued its use of lead additives in its car races. This resulted in major health concerns for those people, who were exposed to the car fumes, especially the car racing fans and the residents, who lived in the vicinity of the car racing venues. Although, lead is a risk to the environment, the race engine performance was a factor, which made the task of changing over to unleaded fuel a bit difficult.