Regulating noise and exhaust emissions from motor vehicles

Abstract

This thesis focuses on the regulatory aspects of noise and exhaust emissions from motor vehicles and seeks to identify if there are any lacunae or flexibilities in regulation which need to be addressed. The main areas which are discussed are, firstly, the present framework of regulation in place throughout the EU, discussing Malta and Cyprus in particular, and the US and comparing the situation in the EU and the US. Secondly, exhaust emissions from the source itself and if any advancements can be made in this regard. This is followed by a discussion about the recent Volkswagen case, which has jeopardized regulation concerning exhaust emissions from motor vehicles. This leads to a set of recommendations which, in the light of this scandal, deal with areas which are as yet unregulated or require a change in regulation so as to eliminate any flexibilities which might give rise to the illegitimate or legitimate exploitation of regulation, as has happened in the Volkswagen scandal. Recommendations are also put forward for the regulation of noise from motor vehicles and the issue of reducing exhaust emissions through incentive measures aimed at behavioural change is also discussed. A concluding chapter summarizes the recommendations discussed and ties to the subject of noise and exhaust emissions the need for policy makers to tackle traffic congestion.