Chicago's NASCAR Scene: Racing, Baconators, and Air Quality.

Chicago will host its first NASCAR street race where elite stock cars that average around 5 mpg in a typical race will be hitting speeds over 100 mph downtown. As race cars turn and brake, fine particulate matter is released into the air. And unlike commuter vehicles, race cars aren’t required to have pollution control devices that filter exhaust gases. Many residents are worried about the NASCAR race, complaining about pollution concerns, as well as traffic, safety and noise. Experts say the environmental consequences of a two-day NASCAR race are more nuanced. NASCAR has used fuel made of gasoline blended with 15% American-made, corn-based ethanol, called Sunoco Green E15. NASCAR said it has since reduced greenhouse gas emissions by 20% across its three national series.