Air pollution from cars and decreasing oil reserves are pushing car manufacturers to develop more electric and alternative fuel vehicles to reduce CO2 emissions. Population aging is increasing in most regions as lifespans lengthen and birth rates fall, raising the ratio of retired to working people and demand for senior-friendly products. The credit crisis has reduced consumer spending power, causing companies' stock values and orders for discretionary goods to drop while giving customers more options and emphasis on research and development of new communication technologies.