The purpose of the Mobile Source Emissions Reduction Grants is to achieve actual reductions from on- and off- road mobile source related emissions in North Carolina to assist the State in maintaining the National Air Quality Standards for primarily ozone (O3) and fine particulate matter (PM2.5).
Why Mobile Source Emissions Reduction is Important to Good Air Quality
North Carolina currently is maintaining National Ambient Air Quality Standards for the following criteria pollutants: carbon monoxide (CO), nitrogen oxides (NOx), sulfur dioxide, and lead. However, in 2004 several areas were designated as not attaining the stricter 8-hour ozone (O3) standard. In addition, there are two areas in North Carolina that have been designated non-attainment for fine particulate emissions (PM2.5).
Ozone is formed when nitrogen oxides (NOx) react with volatile organic compounds (VOC) in the atmosphere. High levels generally occur during hot stagnant weather in the summer months, primarily in urban areas. Autos, trucks, and other motor vehicles emit a large portion of the pollutants that cause ozone during the summer. Statewide, highway and off-road mobile sources combined accounted for 69 percent of the nitrogen oxides (NOx) and 63 percent of the VOC in the summer of 2002. Mobile sources (highway and off-road) generate even higher proportions of major air pollutants in the state's larger cities:
VOCs 66 %
NOx 92 %
When mobile source emissions are reduced, air quality is improved.
How to apply for a Grant
Please read the application package (to the left) carefully.
Proposals should be e-mailed or postmarked no later than December 31, 2008.
It is preferred that application(s) be submitted in electronic format by e-mail to:
