Fight Against Smog

I was very pleased to read that the state Air Resources Board has passed (if not belatedly) a rule demanding cleaner gasoline formulas from oil companies by 1996. While this is certainly a step in the right direction, programs adopted in Denver, Colo., which required a “gasohol” additive during peak pollution periods, has met with great success. Since Southern California suffers from the greatest smog by far in the country, it is about time that more radical measures were adopted.

It should not be forgotten that transportation alternatives are an important weapon in the fight against air pollution. The San Diego Trolley system is a great example. In today’s budget crunch, the health of our environment should not be neglected. Existing transit systems should be expanded, and more comprehensive mass transit systems should be developed.

Air pollution is not a problem that will disappear by token gestures by government. Serious concessions must be made by voters. Economic hardship cannot be avoided.

CHRIS BOUFFARD, San Diego