Would ND limit automobiles to fight air pollution?

BISMARCK, ND (KXNET) — Driving is an effective way to get to and from the most important places in one’s life — but to many, the air pollution that the world’s daily commute causes has become an omnipresent threat to both daily life and the planet’s health. This idea, naturally, begs the question: Would drivers across the US (and North Dakota in particular) be willing to hit the brakes on their driving habits if it meant helping to save the planet?

During the search for an answer to this question, Gunther Volvo of Delray Beach surveyed 3,000 respondents across the United States about whether or not they would support limiting the use of non-electric vehicles on certain days of the week. In a shocking turn of events, a significant number of surveyed North Dakotans (a tremendous 67%, 13% more than the national average) expressed an interest in the idea, stating that banning cars in ND cities could enhance urban air quality.

In addition to state specifics, the study made note of other steps that US residents would be willing to. By doing so, researchers were able to pinpoint more of the sacrifices US residents would be willing to make to ensure the air in their cities is as clean as possible. Below is a list of extra practices survey respondents believed would aid in their cause:

• 52% of surveyed drivers suggested they would be open to the idea of carpooling with a stranger if it meant helping to improve the city’s air quality.
• 26% of respondents state that they have attempted to steer clear of certain heavily polluted cities as much as physically possible.
• 56% of the polled individuals say that owners of large, fuel-guzzling vehicles should pay an additional tax to compensate for their heavier environmental footprint.

Curiously, despite these claims of climate concerns, it was also noted that roughly half of respondents also confessed that they would willingly live in one of the country’s most polluted cities if it meant doubling their paycheck — showcasing an interesting divide between public interest and personal gain.

To view the full study — including an infographic showing how much public support the idea of vehicle limits has gained in each state — visit this page on Gunther Volvo’s website.