Many states require vehicles to pass smog and emission checks before they can be registered. This is to help cut down on air pollution.

South Carolina does not require any smog or emission inspections on vehicles. The state meets all federal clean air standards.

However, just because we aren't required to have our vehicles undergo smog and emission checks, there are still numerous things we can do as responsible citizens to help keep the air clean.

• Carpool

• Walk, ride a bike, or take public transportation

• Telecommute

• Gas your car during the coolest part of the day

• Save lawn maintenance for cooler days

• Make sure our engines are clean and running properly; this also helps vehicles burn fuel efficiently

Green Cars

Another way to keep the air clean is to drive more fuel-efficient and "earth-friendly" cars. But, the Environmental Protection Agency warns that just because a car is fuel-efficient doesn't mean that it emits cleaner air, so there are other issues to consider. You may want to consider purchasing a "green" vehicle.

A "green" vehicle doesn't mean the color of the car, although some of them may have green paint. "Green" cars are determined by fuel efficiency, tail pipe emissions, and overall air pollution score. A "10" rating is the best score a car can have.

You can check out your own vehicle, or one you're considering buying, with the EPA's Green Vehicle Guide.

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