Inspection and maintenance of the vehicle fleet in El Salvador

Abstract

Automotive vehicle emissions are a major source of air pollution in El Salvador, and in general in all of the cities of Central America. Gas and particulate emission levels from the fleet of vehicles in El Salvador are very high, when compared with international standards defining acceptable levels. These levels are high because the fleet of vehicles consists predominately of very old vehicles with deficient maintenance. The consequences of this situation are varied and serious: frequent respiratory problems among the populace, high levels of fuel consumption, excessive repair costs, high indices of accidents and on-the-road breakdowns, and greenhouse gas emissions (GHG). Income levels of most vehicle owners in developing countries such as El Salvador do not allow them to acquire other, newer vehicles. This is a serious limitation for reduction of current emission levels. However, experiences in other nations have shown that a considerable margin of reduction is within reach of these countries, if they apply Inspection and Maintenance Programs (IMP). An evaluation of the IMP in El Salvador, whose results are presented in this article, shows that for an inspection cost of US$25 or less, the net benefits are quite considerable and increase year after year. The benefits considered in the calculations are those arising from savings in diesel fuel and gasoline, as well as those coming from the sale of atmospheric carbon reduction services. In addition to the benefits quantified, the IMP generates incalculable positive effects on the health and quality of life of the population, as well as additional savings in vehicle maintenance costs and health services. And finally, something that is worth emphasizing, this type of program provokes significant reductions in greenhouse gas emissions.