3. The Environment and Lubricant Related Emissions

This chapter looks at the impact of lubricants on the environment including diesel exhaust emissions. Investigations have shown a clear effect of lubricant oil on emissions, which depends on lube oil characteristics, especially sulfur content, metal content, volatility and density. Engine lubricants help to improve vehicle efficiency but contribute engine exhaust emissions. More attention will have to be paid to off-road vehicles, especially tractors, if the production of healthy food and the maintenance of a cleaner environment are not to be compromised. Therefore, one the biggest challenges facing the automotive industry is to improve fuel economy, both to conserve natural resources and to limit pollutants and CO₂ emissions. Better fuel efficiency and consequently lower emissions will require new materials, new lubricants and low-emission fuel.