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PHOENIX — Gov. Janet Napolitano took the first step Friday toward what eventually could be a ban on the sale of cars and light trucks that produce large amounts of "greenhouse gases."

In an executive order, Napolitano told state agencies to adopt and carry out a "Clean Car Program" to reduce carbon dioxide and other gases that contribute to global warming.

While details are still to be worked out, Napolitano said the final order likely would follow what California and other states already have adopted.

It would not outlaw the sale of specific brands or types of vehicles. But beginning no earlier than 2009, it would require manufacturers who want to sell in Arizona to design them to meet standards tougher than federal law requires — which could result in higher costs.

Asked in an interview Friday whether Arizonans are willing to pay more for a vehicle solely to reduce greenhouse gases, Napolitano answered, "That remains to be seen."

"But I will tell you, I think most Arizonans would agree that if we don't start making some changes with respect to the environmental issues that affect climate, we're going to feel very regretful in another 10 or 12 years," said the Democratic governor, who is up for re-election in November.

The Clean Car Program proposal would put Arizona in line with California and at least 11 other states that are adopting emissions standards for greenhouse gases stricter than those being weighed by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.

It is aimed toward Napolitano's goal of getting greenhouse gas emissions in Arizona back to year 2000 levels by 2020. Ultimately, she wants them at half the 2000 levels by 2040.

Whether Napolitano has the authority to implement such an order remains undeter-mined. The first question is whether it would require legislative approval.

"I won't answer that question now. Let's wait and see what they come back with, and then we'll make the determination," she said, referring to the state agencies.

But Sierra Club lobbyist Sandy Bahr said there are already provisions in state law giving the Arizona Department of Environmental Quality the power to reduce "air contaminants" from motor vehicles. Bahr said she would argue that carbon dioxide fits the definition of a contaminant.

California's proposal already is tied up in court, as that state defends a lawsuit brought by vehicle manufacturers who contend that states cannot adopt their own rules. Napolitano said she will "leave that to California" to do battle with the car companies.

One indication of the cost of these less-polluting vehicles will come as soon as January. In her order Friday, Napolitano also directed state agencies to buy only vehicles that meet certain greenhouse-gas emissions standards, beginning Jan. 1.

Alan Ecker, lobbyist for the state Department of Administration, said the agency already buys ethanol-powered vehicles. He said the average cost is "virtually the same" as for their gas-fueled counterparts.

Napolitano also ordered the Department of Transportation to allow owners of "hybrid" gasoline-electric cars to use special carpool lanes on Maricopa County freeways.

Under current rules, only cars and trucks with more than one occupant can use these lanes during rush hours unless the vehicle is powered by something other than gasoline. Letting hybrid owners use those lanes could encourage more people to buy the cars despite their higher cost, Napolitano said.

The order includes several provisions adopted last month by a special panel Napolitano named to study ways to reduce greenhouse gases.

But the governor's order does not include all of the committee's recommendations.

For example, one would reduce the amount of farm and range land that are converted to homes — what could be a growth control measure.

Another would require that people pay higher rates for electricity the more they use, to encourage conservation. There also is a proposed "pay as you drive" insurance program to link premiums directly to miles driven.

Napolitano said she is studying the report and may adopt more proposals. But some of the ideas, like changing electricity rates, are beyond her control, resting instead with the Arizona Corporation Commission.

Bahr, who was a member of the governor's commission, said cleaner cars don't have to be more expensive. She said goals of reducing greenhouse gases could be met with vehicles that are more fuel-efficient.

And Bahr said that doesn't necessarily mean smaller and lighter vehicles, which some consumers dislike.

On StarNet: For more information on the environment, air quality, energy conservation and recycling, visit azstarnet.com/earth911