I am all in favour of protecting the environment and for raising emissions standards but, like most things, it's not that simple.

Lets take emission systems for automobiles.

First world countries have been incrementally improving their standards for decades through the joint efforts of governments, oil companies and auto manufacturers. Meanwhile we've done little here or in the region.

Because of the many intricacies involved, it will probably take a decade or more for The Bahamas to catch up to the regulations in Florida, not to mention California or Europe.

First of all, oil companies will have to bring in more refined fuel and probably change tanks. Auto manufacturers will have to be able to sell suppliers vehicles that have higher emissions standards. Local auto companies will have to purchase, install and maintain proper testing equipment. And cars that are already on the road will have to be phased out.

Once implemented, gasoline and vehicle servicing will cost the consumer more.

That's why it will take a decade or more to reach the goal of Euro 4.

If you are interested in digging a bit more, check out the Worldwide Fuel Charter 2013 here…