have you converted?

The catalytic converter on a car is a device mounted to your tail pipe which all the emissions from you car pass through. The converter is designed to take the sludge that the engine pumps out and break it down, converting the harmful fumes into nitrogen, carbon dioxide and water vapor. But here’s the catch! It works at its ultimate efficiency when it reaches 600 degrees. On average, it takes about 6 miles of driving for the catalytic converter to reach that temperature. In cold climates, that time can take much longer. Until the catalitic converter reaches optimum temperature, all those pollutants get pumped into the atmosphere. Get the picture? Here’s the point: if you’re running to the corner store, consider walking. You might think that a drive around the block isn’t a big deal, but when you consider how many pollutants are pumped into the air, you’ll be glad you walked.

Thanks to Alex Grasic for suggesting this tip!