We've Done the Job — What's It Worth?

The paper covers highlights of SAE activity on emissions control from the early efforts of Campbell and others in the 1930's to the present time. Evidence of substantial involvement in the Los Angeles "smog" composition led to the development of analytical tools for continuous evaluation of exhaust. With these tools and other basic information, it became possible to develop many control devices. Over 20 of these devices have been added as standards have tightened. Recent cost and benefit estimates are reviewed. These appear to indicate that the benefits of the present, highly complex systems are far outweighed by the costs. Some suggestions for dealing with this situation are made.