Windshield Washer Fluid: An Unexpected Emission Source

A recent study published in the ACS’ Environmental Science & Technology journal reveals that alcohols in windshield washer fluid contribute more significantly to vehicle emissions than previously thought. This holds true even with the increased adoption of electric vehicles, suggesting the need for future regulatory policies to address such non-fuel-derived pollutants. The study found that the release of two alcohols, ethanol, and methanol, was nearly twice the amount of all VOCs released in exhaust. The researchers say that this finding has implications for future regulatory policy, especially as drivers transition to electric vehicles, which may have fewer emissions from fuels but will still need clean windshields.