North Texas, TCEQ Awarded $2 Million for Clean Diesel Projects

The North Central Texas Council of Governments has been awarded $1.5 million, and the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality will receive $500,000 from the Environmental Protection Agency to help reduce diesel emissions.

EPA and the Blue Skyways Collaborative awarded the grants as part of the National Clean Diesel Funding Assistance Program.

“Blue Skyways and the EPA clean diesel program are delivering cleaner engines and cleaner air for America’s heartland,” said EPA Regional Administrator Richard E. Greene. “This program gives communities another effective tool to improve air quality and public health.”

Communities will use the grants for clean diesel projects that significantly reduce emissions through the use of retrofit technologies, engine replacements, and idle reduction technologies.

Reducing emissions from diesel engines is one of the most important air quality challenges facing the country. Even with EPA's more stringent heavy-duty highway and non-road engine standards set to take effect over the next decade, millions of diesel engines already in use will continue to emit large amounts of nitrogen oxides, particulate matter and air toxics, which contribute to serious public health problems. EPA and the Blue Skyways Collaborative provide funding for projects to help reduce these heavy-duty diesel emissions.

The Blue Skyways Collaborative is a group of businesses, communities and government agencies spanning 10 states that work together voluntarily to reduce air pollution in North America's central corridor. With its 183 partners, the collaborative is implementing about $1.1 billion in projects that use innovations in diesel engines, alternative fuels and renewable energy technologies to reduce air emissions along major transportation corridors. These innovations save 76 million gallons of fuel per year, cut 1.6 million tons per year in greenhouse gases and reduce toxic air pollutants by 51,626 tons per year.

For additional information on the National Clean Diesel Funding Assistance Program, click here.

For information the Blue Skyways Collaborative, click here.

For activities and information on EPA Region 6, click here.

An EPA audio file is also available, click here.

Find diesel particulate filters at CleanAIR Systems.

EPA Soot List

100 million people living in 46 metropolitan areas are breathing air containing unsafe levels of soot and are in violation of EPA’s fine-particle pollution limits.

On December 22nd, the EPA notified 25 governors and 23 tribal leaders that 211 counties in 25 states did not meet federal pollution standards. 15 new cities and 54 additional counties have been added to the updated “Soot List”.

The EPA reviewed recommendations from states and tribes along with public comments before making its decision to designate counties and parts of counties as not meeting EPA’s PM 2.5 standards. These areas, known as nonattainment areas, include counties with monitors violating the standards and nearby areas that contribute to that violation. Affected states and tribes will be required to take steps to reduce the pollution that forms fine particles. The vast majority of U.S. counties and tribal lands currently meet standards, but will need to continue working to maintain clean air.

New cities include on this year’s list are:
Fairbanks and Juneau, Alaska
Nogales, Arizona
Pinehurst, Idaho
Davenport and Muscatine, Iowa
Klamath and Oakridge, Oregon
Provo and Salt Lake City, Utah
Seattle, Washington
Green Bay, Madison and Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Logan, Utah

Many states west of the Rockies have nonattainment regions that exceed federal air pollution levels. They include counties in Utah, Montana, Arizona, Idaho, Oregon, Washington, California and Alaska.

In California, all or part of 30 counties have been put on notice to clean up their air. The Bay Area has exceeded acceptable levels of particulate matter five times in the past 2 months and received 32 warning letters.

In Southwestern Pennsylvania, 10 areas are not compliant, including the city of Pittsburgh.

Chicago along with 6 Illinois counties are included on the Soot List.

In 2006, EPA strengthened the 24-hour fine particle standards from 65 micrograms per cubic meter to 35 micrograms per cubic meter of air to protect public health. Nationwide, monitored levels of fine particle pollution fell 11 percent from 2000 to 2007. Fine particles can either be emitted directly, or they can form in the atmosphere from reactions of sulfur dioxide and nitrogen oxides. Exposure to fine particle pollution can cause a number of serious health problems including aggravated asthma, increased hospital admissions and emergency room visits for respiratory and cardiovascular disease, heart attacks and premature death.

According to the EPA, nonattainment areas must develop a plan to clean the air by 2012 and have that plan in place by 2014.

See the Source:

EPA Soot List – Area Designations for 2006 24-Hour Fine Particle (PM2.5) Standards
State Designations by Region

Find out about:

Diesel Particulate Filters to reduce particulate matter from diesel engines

New Regulations Will Clean Up NYS Owned and Operated Diesel Engines

Regulations will Improve Public Health, Create Economic Opportunities and Help Reduce Health Care Costs

A coalition of environmental, public health and business groups testified this week in support of regulations drafted by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) which implement aspects of the New York State (DERA). Public hearings on the regulations are taking place from Nov. 24-26, 2008, in Albany, Long Island City and Avon.

As specified in regulations, which were published in the New York State Register on October 8, on-road and off-road heavy duty diesel vehicles which are owned or under contract with New York State must use ultra low sulfur diesel (ULSD) fuel, and be fitted with best available retrofit technologies by December 31, 2010.

"Year after year, and day after day, New Yorkers are exposed to some of the dirtiest air in the nation," said Louise Vetter, Chief Executive Officer for the American Lung Association of New York. "These regulations will ensure that technology, which is available today and can be installed immediately, will be required on the state owned and operated fleet of diesel powered on-road and off-road vehicles."

"Implementation of comprehensive NY DERA regulations will support the jobs and economic development investment Corning has made in upstate New York," said G. Thomas Tranter, Jr., President, Corning Enterprises.

The Diesel Emission Reduction Act of 2006 required the Commissioner of DEC to enact rules governing which technologies shall be considered best available retrofit technologies. The law also established the following schedule for installing the retrofit technologies: not less than 33 percent of vehicles by December 31, 2008; not less than 66 percent of vehicles by December 31, 2009; and, not less than 100% of vehicles by December 31, 2010.

"Environmental Advocates of New York applauds Governor Paterson and Commissioner Grannis for taking this monumental step to clean-up our air. Dirty diesel emissions account for a major portion of the pollution endangering our environment and the health of our families. We urge the Department of Environmental Conservation to finalize the proposed rule without delay, as every day that passes without curbing diesel emissions is another day of increased rates of asthma in children and the further degradation of our natural resources," said Jackson Morris, Environmental Advocates of new York.

Air pollution problems and their attendant health threats have become serious statewide issues. Millions of New Yorkers are at-risk. In fact, according to the EPA, 89 percent of the state's population lives in a county where air quality does not attain federal health standards. In addition, the EPA has declared the counties of Suffolk, Nassau, Queens, Kings, Richmond, New York, Bronx, Westchester, Rockland and Orange in "non-attainment" for fine particles.

"The health and environmental impacts of diesel emissions are staggering," said Laura Haight, senior environmental associate of the New York Public Interest Research Group. "We urge New York State to adopt and implement these regulations as soon as possible. This is an investment in cleaner air, healthier communities, safer workplaces, and green jobs. Most importantly, it will save lives."

The high air pollution levels in New York State make people sick and even cut lives short. Diesel pollution has been shown by a wealth of science to trigger asthma attacks; is linked to heart attacks, cancer and even premature death; and is associated with ambient levels of both ozone and fine particles.

"These regulations will ensure that all New Yorkers breathe healthier air," said Isabelle Silverman, an attorney with Environmental Defense Fund. "We owe it to our children to retrofit diesel vehicles with filters that trap more than 85 percent of the toxic pollution that can impair their lung and brain development."

According to the New York State Department of Health, the typical hospital bill for a person on Medicaid who is hospitalized for an asthma attack is $9,500, which is more than a diesel particulate filter (DPF) would cost. Thus, if each DPF installed provides enough clean air to avoid just one asthma-related hospital admission, then the legislation pays for itself. Furthermore, this law will increase economic opportunities for companies in New York State who currently make diesel emission reduction technologies.

"Diesel pollution is a very serious public health problem in New York, but we can solve it," said Richard Kassel, Director of the Clean Fuels and Vehicles Project at the Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC). "Given that two years have passed since a law was signed to clean up the state's diesel vehicles, it's time to get these regulations in place and clean up New York's dirty diesels."

"In the case of dirty diesel, the scientific link to lung cancer is a solid one," said Peter Slocum, vice president of advocacy, American Cancer Society of NY & NJ. "Swift implementation of these regulations will result in fewer diesel emissions by state vehicles, cleaner air and less cancer risk for New Yorkers."

"Dirty diesel emissions are a threat to public health and the environment. Requiring cleaner systems, that use affordable, available technology, is a logical, protective measure that should be swiftly implemented. Running diesel engines in the 21st century, requiring 21st century technology, just makes sense." stated Adrienne Esposito, Executive Director, Citizens Campaign for the Environment.

The American Lung Association's State of the Air 2008 report found that from Buffalo to Bayport, and from Staten Island to Saratoga millions of New Yorkers are being forced to breathe unhealthy air. For most of the state, there truly is no escape for New Yorkers whose health is impacted by air pollution.

Investing in diesel reduction is good for New York's economy. There will be increased economic opportunity for companies in New York that manufacture diesel emission reduction technology. Many cost-effective and affordable retrofit technologies are currently available reducing particulate matter (soot) pollution by over 85 percent.

Diesel emissions contribute to climate change and smog. Diesel engines release a wide array of harmful substances directly into our air -- including particulate matter (soot), nitrogen oxides that act as a precursor to ozone, carbon monoxide and carbon dioxide. It is estimated that diesel emissions include a staggering 40 hazardous air pollutants that are listed under the Clean Air Act.

Diesel emissions remain a particularly troublesome health threat. They are a contributing factor to the ozone problems facing so many New York communities and are a big reason why the New York City metro area has such a problem with fine particles. Diesel particulate filters trap fine particles. In fact, New York State has the highest number of deaths and the greatest rate of disease associated with diesel exhaust particles. The New York City metropolitan area leads the nation in total deaths, cancer deaths, and heart attacks associated with diesel emissions. Unlike many areas of the country, the health effects associated with diesel pollution in New York are even greater than those associated with power plant fine particle pollution.

An interactive map showing air quality findings in New York, by county, is available at http://www.alany.org/.

See the Source:

American Lung Association

NYS Clean Diesel Regulations Show Promise

Regulations Will Reduce Harmful Effects of Diesel Pollution

A coalition of environmental and public health groups today urged adoption of regulations drafted by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) which implement aspects of the New York State Diesel Emission Reduction Act of 2006. As specified in regulations published in the New York State Register on October 8, on-road and off-road heavy duty diesel vehicles which are owned or under contract with New York State must use ultra low sulfur diesel (ULSD) fuel, and be fitted with best available retrofit technologies by December 31, 2010.

"Through these regulations, Governor Paterson and Commissioner Grannis have taken real steps to clean up a real problem, New York's dirty air," said Michael Seilback, Vice President, Public Policy & Communications for the American Lung Association of New York. "It is imperative that New Yorkers show their support for these regulations by attending and testifying at the public hearings across the state."

The Diesel Emission Reduction Act of 2006 required the Commissioner of DEC to enact rules governing which technologies shall be considered best available retrofit technologies.

DEC plans to hold the following public hearings:
-- Nov. 24, 2008, 1 p.m. at DEC Annex, Region 2, 11-15 47th Ave., Hearing Rm. 106, Long Island City
-- Nov. 25, 2008, 1 p.m. at DEC Reg. 8 Office, Conference Rm., 6274 E. Avon-Lima Rd., Avon
-- Nov. 26, 2008, 9 a.m. at DEC, 625 Broadway, Public Assembly Rm. 129, Albany

"Environmental Advocates of New York applauds Governor Paterson and Commissioner Grannis for taking this monumental step to clean-up our air. Dirty diesel emissions account for a major portion of the pollution endangering our environment and the health of our families. We urge the Department of Environmental Conservation to finalize rulemaking without delay, as every day that passes without curbing diesel emissions is another day of increased rates of asthma in children and the further degradation of our natural resources," said Jackson Morris, Environmental Advocates of New York.

"We salute Governor Paterson and Commissioner Grannis for helping New York lead by example," said Marcia Bystryn, president of the New York League of Conservation Voters. "Diesel emissions are a significant health and environmental concern, and New Yorkers can breathe a little easier knowing that cleaner air is on the way."

"Children and seniors will breathe easier because of Gov. Paterson's and Commissioner Grannis' leadership on moving forward with the proposed regulations," said Cecil Corbin-Mark, deputy director of WE ACT for Environmental Justice. "Cleaning the fleet of on-road and off-road vehicles under the State's control will lead to less asthma and fewer deaths for our most vulnerable."

"Stronger diesel regulations will result in a reduction of harmful emissions including nitrogen oxides, particulate matter and air toxics, which contribute to serious public health problems. These emissions are linked to thousands of premature deaths, asthma attacks, lost work days, and numerous other health impacts every year. CCE commends the stronger regulations proposed by the DEC to address these serious issues," said Adrienne Esposito, Citizens Campaign for the Environment.

"Once these sensible regulations are adopted, all New Yorkers will be able to breathe easier," said Gordian Raacke, executive director of the not-for-profit organization Renewable Energy Long Island (RELI). "We applaud Governor Paterson and the DEC for proposing these regulations and hope that they will be adopted without delay."

"89 percent of New York State residents breathe air not meeting federal health-based standards," said Isabelle Silverman, legal fellow with Environmental Defense Fund. "Because available retrofit technologies work on virtually every engine application to trap over 85 percent of soot, EDF supports rules requiring the highest possible soot reduction."

The law established the following schedule for installing the retrofit technologies: not less than 33 percent of all vehicles by December 31, 2008; not less than 66 percent of all vehicles by December 31, 2009; and, not less than 100% of all vehicles by December 31, 2010.

Air pollution problems and their attendant health threats have become serious statewide issues. Millions of New Yorkers are at-risk. In fact, according to the EPA, 89 percent of the state's population lives in a county where air quality does not attain federal health standards. In addition, the EPA has declared the counties of Suffolk, Nassau, Queens, Kings, Richmond, New York, Bronx, Westchester, Rockland and Orange in "non-attainment" for fine particles.

The high air pollution levels in New York State make people sick and even cut lives short. Diesel pollution has been shown by a wealth of science to trigger asthma attacks; is linked to heart attacks, cancer and even premature deaths in seniors; and is associated with ambient levels of both ozone and fine particles.

According to the New York State Department of Health, the typical hospital bill for a person on Medicaid who is hospitalized for an asthma attack is $9,500, which is more than a diesel particulate filter (DPF) would cost. Thus, if each DPF installed provides enough clean air to avoid just one asthma-related hospital admission, then the legislation pays for itself. Furthermore, this law will increase economic opportunities for companies in New York State who currently make diesel emission reduction technologies.

The American Lung Association's State of the Air 2008 report found that from Buffalo to Bayport, and from Staten Island to Saratoga millions of New Yorkers are being forced to breathe unhealthy air. For most of the state, there truly is no escape for New Yorkers whose health is impacted by air pollution.

Diesel emissions remain a particularly troublesome health threat. They are a contributing factor to the ozone problems facing so many New York communities and are a big reason why the New York City metro area has such a problem with fine particles. In fact, New York State has the highest number of deaths and the greatest rate of disease associated with diesel exhaust particles. The New York City metropolitan area leads the nation in total deaths, cancer deaths, and heart attacks associated with diesel emissions. Unlike many areas of the country, the health effects associated with diesel pollution in New York are even greater than those associated with power plant fine particle pollution.

An interactive map showing air quality findings in New York, by county, is available at http://www.alany.org/. For information on how to comment on these regulations, contact Michael Seilback of the American Lung Association of New York at (631) 265 3848 x16.

New Law Bolsters U.S. Efforts to Make Ocean-Going Ships Cleaner

With the president's July 21 signature of the Maritime Pollution Protection Act of 2008, U.S. agencies are setting course to implement a key international agreement to reduce air pollution from large ships. This key step clears the way for U.S. ratification of the international treaty regulating emissions – known as MARPOL Annex VI -- from large diesel-powered, ocean-going vessels.

Under MARPOL Annex VI, container ships, tankers, cruise ships and bulk carriers must limit NOx emissions from their category three diesel engines. It also sets a cap on the sulfur content of the fuel they burn and includes a program for designating areas where more stringent fuel controls apply, such as near coastlines that have more severe air quality concerns.

This October, the parties to MARPOL will work to strengthen NOx and SO2 standards and the sulfur requirements in fuel. The amendments under review are consistent with the stringent and comprehensive proposal put forward by the U.S. Government. If adopted, these stronger international standards will yield significant environmental and public health benefits in the U.S. and around the world.

As foreign trade grows and EPA's new emissions controls take effect on other transportation sources, emissions from large ships comprise an increasing share of the nation's pollution inventory. In 2001, in terms of mobile sources, oceangoing vessels contributed nearly 6 percent of NOx, over 10 percent of PM2.5, and about 40 percent of SO2 to the nation's air pollution. Without further controls, those numbers will rise to about 34 percent of NOx, 45 percent of PM2.5, and 94 percent of SO2 emissions by 2030.

The president's signature of the act brings into statute Annex VI to the International Convention on the Prevention of Pollution from Ships (known as MARPOL). The U.S. Senate gave its formal advice and consent to Annex VI in 2006. The final step of the ratification process is for the President deliver a letter -- known as diplomatic instrument of ratification -- to the International Maritime Organization. The U.S. becomes a party three months later. MARPOL Annex VI entered into force beginning in May of 2005, although ships have met most provisions since 2000.

For more information:
EPA - reducing emissions from large ships

diesel pollution

Clean Diesel Emerging Technology Grant Funding Now Available

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) plans to award approximately $3.4 million in grants to establish projects using emerging technologies to reduce emissions from the nation's existing fleet of diesel engines. Addressing the existing fleet is important because it pre-dates EPA's stringent new particulate and nitrogen oxide standards and diesels remain in use for decades. This sum was authorized by the Energy Policy Act of 2005 and funded for the first time this fiscal year.

State, local, regional and tribal governments may apply for the grants, as well as non-profits and institutions with transportation, educational service, and air quality responsibilities. Emerging technology manufacturers must partner with an eligible applicant to receive this funding. The grants are targeting school or transit buses, medium and heavy-duty trucks, marine engines, locomotives and non-road engines. Grant proposals must be submitted by Sept. 21, 2008. The final awards will be announced in December.

The grants will be administered by EPA's National Clean Diesel Campaign under the Emerging Technology Program (ETP). ETP supports the development and commercialization of new, cutting-edge technologies. The program gives manufacturers the opportunity to capture real world data and gain valuable operating experience on their technology while it is used by fleet partners.

An emerging technology is a device or strategy that reduces emissions from diesel engines or equipment that has not been verified or certified by EPA or the California Air Resources Board (ARB). To qualify as an emerging technology, manufacturers must submit an application and test plan to EPA or ARB. Each technology will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis to determine if it qualifies as an emerging technology.

Qualified emerging technologies will be added to the Emerging Technologies List. One of the first qualifying technologies is Caterpillars' Marine Emissions Upgrade Group (EUG). Specifics of each technology including the emission reductions and engine applications can be found on the Emerging Technology List.

See the Source:
EPA - Grant Fund

Emerging Technology Program

View the qualifying emerging technologies

ARB: In-Use Off-Road Diesel Vehicle Reg.

The California Office of Administrative Law approved the in-use off-road diesel vehicle regulation and filed it with the Secretary of State on May 16, 2008. The regulation will become effective on June 15, 2008. The final regulation order is available at http://www.arb.ca.gov/regact/2007/ordiesl07/frooal.pdf

ARB Proposes New Rule to Clean Up State Trucks and Buses

Diesel emissions from freeway trucks are major contributors to poor air quality

The Air Resources Board unveiled a revised draft regulation this week that will require retrofits and engine replacements for the estimated privately owned 300,000 diesel trucks and buses transiting California roadways beginning in 2012.

Staff re-worked an earlier version of the draft regulation to eliminate the need for truckers to replace two trucks in a nine-year span, instead relying more heavily on retrofits for the first two years of the regulation. The revised proposal has a lower cost while preserving important public health benefits.

The proposed regulation now calls for truckers to retrofit pre-2007 model year trucks with soot filters and then requires a gradual modernization of trucks beginning in 2012, so that ultimately all trucks are the cleanest, 2010 or newer models.

This draft regulation addresses the largest unregulated source of diesel emissions in the state. Between 2010 and 2020, ARB estimates that the regulation will prevent 11,000 premature deaths associated with exposure to diesel exhaust, and save roughly $500 million in health care costs during that same period.

"If passed by the Board later this year, this regulation will save thousands of lives and help the hundreds of thousands more who suffer from asthma and other respiratory ailments," said ARB Chairman Mary Nichols. "While we are sensitive to the economic impacts this measure poses to truckers, the public health benefits are far too great not to move forward."

This regulation is projected to cost the trucking industry somewhere between $3.6 to $5.5 billion from 2010 to 2021, which ARB staff estimates will add less than a penny apiece to products hauled by these trucks that people buy, ranging from athletic shoes to television sets. ARB is in the midst of allocating $1 billion in Proposition 1B funds, much of which will go toward helping truckers retrofit and replace trucks.

Other entities, including the U.S. EPA and several California ports are offering financial assistance.

Emissions from diesel particulate matter are associated with causing a variety of health effects including premature death and a number of heart and lung diseases. A recent study looking at the health impacts to West Oakland residents posed by diesel emissions estimates the yearly non-cancer health impacts resulting from exposure to port-related diesel particulate matter emissions in the area: 18 premature deaths (age 30 and older), 290 asthma attacks, 2,600 days of work loss, and 15,000 minor restricted activity episodes. Most of the risk comes from diesel particulate matter emissions from trucks traveling on nearby freeways and marine vessel traffic in the San Francisco Bay Area unrelated to the Port of Oakland.

ARB has put in place stringent regulations to curb the health risk to Californians. The most recent adopted regulations to limit diesel emissions affect cargo handling equipment, transport refrigeration units, truck idling, off-road construction equipment, harbor craft, ship auxiliary engines, port drayage trucks and ships-at-berth. Also, the introduction of cleaner fuel for railroads and ships has contributed to lower pollution around the ports and rail yards.

Later this year, ARB will also consider adopting another proposed regulation involving ocean-going vessel main engines to further reduce diesel soot. State control measures will contribute to an approximate decrease of 80 percent in harmful emissions by 2015.

The Air Resources Board is a department of the California Environmental Protection Agency. ARB's mission is to promote and protect public health, welfare, and ecological resources through effective reduction of air pollutants while recognizing and considering effects on the economy. The ARB oversees all air pollution control efforts in California to attain and maintain health based air quality standards.

The energy challenge facing California is real. Every Californian needs to take immediate action to reduce energy consumption. For a list of simple ways you can reduce demand and cut your energy cost, see our web site at http://www.arb.ca.gov/

Find out:

How to retrofit with diesel particulate filters

air pollution
particle pollution

ARB Proposes Landmark Truck Regulation

Diesel emissions from freeway trucks are major contributors to poor air quality

Members of the Air Resources Board today emphasized the importance of passing a proposed state regulation before the Board later this year aimed at cleaning up emissions from 300,000 private diesel trucks after hearing a presentation from staff on additional health risks posed to West Oakland residents primarily by trucks transiting local freeways.

The study, developed in collaboration with the Bay Area Air Quality Management District, the Maritime Port of Oakland and Union Pacific Railroad, reveals that the estimated lifetime potential cancer risk for residents of West Oakland from exposure to diesel emissions is about 1,200 excess cancers per million people. The analysis covers 3.1 million people who reside in the affected area of 3,800 square miles.

While diesel trucks account for a majority of the risk in West Oakland resulting in about 850 potential cancer cases per million or 70 percent, port operations account for an estimated lifetime potential cancer risk of 200 excess cancer cases per million, or about 15 percent of the total. Union Pacific railyard emissions amount to a potential cancer risk of about 40 excess cancer cases per million, or less than 5 percent and the remaining 10 percent of risk comes from a variety of diesel sources such as passenger trains and construction projects.

"This health assessment strenghtens our resolve to clean up the estimated 300,000 diesel trucks currently spewing health-threatening soot throughout the state," ARB Chairman Mary Nichols said. "If we fail to pass this regulation, West Oakland residents will continue to be endangered by this huge unregulated source of diesel emissions."

In the development of the ship emissions, ARB staff used transponder data (continuously reports ship location) to more accurate estimate where off-shore emissions are occurring. For the first time in a large risk assessment, a regional wind field was generated using data from 30 onshore and 3 offshore weather stations. The CALPUFF model was used to estimate the ambient concentration of diesel particulate matter. This model is capable of producing more precise results than the models used in the past due to its ability to account for highly varying wind fields and complex terrain.

Emissions from diesel particulate matter are associated with causing a variety of health effects including premature death and a number of heart and lung diseases. The study also estimates the yearly non-cancer health impacts resulting from exposure to port-related diesel particulate matter emissions in the area: 18 premature deaths (age 30 and older), 290 asthma attacks, 2,600 days of work loss, and 15,000 minor restricted activity episodes.

Having identified diesel particulate matter as a toxic air contaminant in 1998 due to its potential to cause cancer and other respiratory problems, ARB has put in place stringent regulations to curve the health risk to Californians. The most recent adopted regulations to limit diesel emissions affect cargo handling equipment, transport refrigeration units, truck idling, off-road equipment, harbor craft, ship auxiliary engines, port drayage trucks and ships-at-berth. Also, the introduction of cleaner fuel for railroads and ships has contributed to lower pollution around the ports and railyards.

Later this year, ARB will be considering proposed regulations involving on-road heavy duty diesel vehicles (trucks and buses) and ocean-going vessel main engines to further reduce diesel soot. State control measures will contribute to an approximate decrease of 80 percent in harmful emissions by 2015.

See Source:
ARB - West Oakland health risk assessment

Find out:
How to reduce diesel particulate matter using diesel particulate filters (DPFs)

diesel pollution

Virginia Schools Receive Grant to Reduce Diesel Pollution

In the next year, students who ride buses from the Virginia Middle Peninsula schools will be breathing cleaner air, thanks to a grant from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency to reduce pollution in diesel-powered school buses.

EPA's Clean School Bus USA program awarded $143,068 to Hampton Roads Clean Cities to work with several Middle Peninsula school districts to retrofit over 100 school buses. The average bus ride for students benefitting from this project is an hour or more. The new pollution-control equipment, coupled with the use of cleaner burning fuel and the encouragement of less engine idling of school buses, will substantially reduce soot and exhaust pollutants.

"Breathing diesel exhaust can be harmful, especially for children with asthma," said Regional Administrator Donald S. Welsh. "We're pleased that Hampton Roads Clean Cities is taking action so students can breathe cleaner air and live healthier lives.”

The grant will be used by the school districts to install diesel oxidation catalysts on 100 buses, switch to cleaner burning fuel for 198 buses, promote reduced engine idling and purchase one new clean alternative propane-powered bus. The retrofit equipment in combination with ultra low sulfur diesel fuel can reduce pollution emissions from the diesel buses by 60 to 90 percent.

“In addition to obvious clean air and health benefits, the Clean School Bus award supports or complements many components of the effort to preserve the sensitive Dragon Run watershed in Virginia’s Middle Peninsula,” said Al Christopher, Executive Director of Virginia Clean Cities.

In April 2003, EPA launched its Clean School Bus USA program to help reduce children’s exposure to diesel exhaust. The particles in diesel exhaust can penetrate deep into the lungs and pose health risks including aggravating asthma symptoms. Children are especially vulnerable to the effects of diesel emissions and air pollution because their respiratory systems are still developing and they have a faster breathing rate.

See the Source:
EPA - Funding for clean diesel projects

Find out:
How to reduce diesel pollution using diesel particulate filters

air pollution
diesel pollution

EPA Makes $50 Million Available to Clean Up Diesel Engines Nationwide

EPA is announcing the availability of almost $50 million in grant funding to establish clean diesel projects aimed at reducing emissions from the nation's existing fleet of diesel engines.

The unprecedented sum, which was authorized by the Energy Policy Act of 2005 and funded for the first time this fiscal year, will be administered by EPA's National Clean Diesel Campaign (NCDC) and its network of seven collaboratives, made up of EPA regional offices and public and private sector partners.

"Under President Bush's leadership, America's air is cleaner today than it was a generation ago," said EPA Administrator Stephen L. Johnson. "By encouraging innovations in existing diesel engines, EPA is driving the nation toward a clean, healthy, productive tomorrow."

Diesels are the economic workhorses of the nation, and over the past decade, EPA has set stringent new particulate and nitrogen oxide standards for most types of new engines. These regulations will annually prevent more than 20,000 premature deaths and yield more than $150 billion in public health benefits when fully implemented. The funding announced today, however, is aimed at reducing emissions from the existing fleet of 11 million diesel engines that pre-date these standards. Addressing the existing fleet is important because diesels remain in use for decades.

State, local, regional and tribal governments can apply for the grants, as well as non-profits and institutions with transportation, educational services and air quality responsibilities.

The grants are targeting school or transit buses, medium and heavy-duty trucks, marine engines, locomotives and nonroad engines. Grant recipients can use a variety of cost-effective emission reduction strategies, such as EPA-verified retrofit and idle-reduction technologies, EPA-certified engine upgrades, vehicle or equipment replacements, cleaner fuels and creation of innovative clean diesel financing programs.

Some EPA Regional offices have already started issuing requests for grant applications, called Requests for Proposals (RFPs), and, along with EPA Headquarters, will continue to roll them out throughout the spring.

NCDC uses a proactive, incentive-based approach to achieve environmental results. More than 400,000 existing diesel engines have already been retrofitted during the campaign's first few years, cutting harmful emissions by nearly 300,000 tons.

See the Source:
NCDC Funding Opportunities

Find out:
About diesel particulate filters to reduce diesel particulate matter

diesel emissions

ARB: Diesel Soot from Trucks Major Contributor to Air Pollution

ARB reveals West Oakland health risk assessment Diesel emissions from freeway trucks are major contributors to poor air quality

OAKLAND – The Air Resources Board presented today at a public forum the preliminary results from a comprehensive health risk assessment study for the community of West Oakland. The report shows an increased potential cancer risk due to diesel particulate matter emissions from trucks traveling on nearby freeways and marine vessel traffic in the San Francisco Bay Area unrelated to the Port of Oakland.

The study, developed in collaboration with the Bay Area Air Quality Management District, the Maritime Port of Oakland and Union Pacific Railroad, reveals that the estimated lifetime potential cancer risk for residents of West Oakland from exposure to diesel emissions is about 1,200 excess cancers per million people. The analysis covers 3.1 million people who reside in the affected area of 3,800 square miles.

While diesel trucks account for a majority of the risk in West Oakland resulting in about 850 potential cancer cases per million or 70 percent, port operations account for an estimated lifetime potential cancer risk of 200 excess cancer cases per million, or about 15 percent of the total. Union Pacific railyard emissions amount to a potential cancer risk of about 40 excess cancer cases per million, or less than 5 percent and the remaining 10 percent of risk comes from a variety of diesel sources such as passenger trains and construction projects.

"This health risk assessment will provide the community the focus and momentum needed to mobilize and combat air pollution," said ARB Chairman Mary D. Nichols. "We look forward to working with community activists to converge on the main pollution culprits, such as trucks motoring on nearby freeways, affecting a growing and vibrant West Oakland."

In the development of the ship emissions, ARB staff used transponder data (continuously reports ship location) to more accurate estimate where off-shore emissions are occurring. For the first time in a large risk assessment, a regional wind field was generated using data from 30 onshore and 3 offshore weather stations. The CALPUFF model was used to estimate the ambient concentration of diesel particulate matter. This model is capable of producing more precise results than the models used in the past due to its ability to account for highly varying wind fields and complex terrain.

Emissions from diesel particulate matter are associated with causing a variety of health effects including premature death and a number of heart and lung diseases. The study also estimates the yearly non-cancer health impacts resulting from exposure to port-related diesel particulate matter emissions in the area: 18 premature deaths (age 30 and older), 290 asthma attacks, 2,600 days of work loss, and 15,000 minor restricted activity episodes.

Having identified diesel particulate matter as a toxic air contaminant in 1998 due to its potential to cause cancer and other respiratory problems, ARB has put in place stringent regulations to curve the health risk to Californians. The most recent adopted regulations to limit diesel emissions affect cargo handling equipment, transport refrigeration units, truck idling, off-road equipment, harbor craft, ship auxiliary engines, port drayage trucks and ships-at-berth. Also, the introduction of cleaner fuel for railroads and ships has contributed to lower pollution around the ports and railyards.

Later this year, ARB will be considering proposed regulations involving on-road heavy duty diesel vehicles (trucks and buses) and ocean-going vessel main engines to further reduce diesel soot. State control measures will contribute to an approximate decrease of 80 percent in harmful emissions by 2015.

See the Source:

West Oakland Study

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About diesel particulate filters for off-road and stationary engines to cut diesel pollution

diesel emissions
air pollution

$5.4 Million Available to Cut Diesel Pollution in Northeast and Caribbean

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency is making nearly $5.4 million in grants available for clean diesel projects under the 2008 Northeast Diesel Collaborative (NEDC) program to reduce harmful diesel pollution. Projects may include a variety of diesel emissions reductions solutions such as add-on emission control retrofit technologies; idle reduction technologies; cleaner fuel use; engine repowers; engine upgrades; vehicle or equipment replacement; and the creation of innovative finance programs to fund diesel emissions reduction projects. All projects must benefit the air quality in the geographic areas that include Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Puerto Rico, Rhode Island, the U.S. Virgin Islands and Vermont; and Tribal lands belonging to the federally recognized Indian tribes in these regions. The deadline for applying is June 12, 2008.

“Reducing the emissions of particle pollution is a crucial component of EPA’s strategy for cleaner air and healthier Americans,” said Alan J. Steinberg, EPA Regional Administrator. “These funds allow us to complement regulatory efforts, like our new rule to dramatically reduce emissions from diesel powered locomotives and marine engines, announced last week. The Northeast Diesel Collaborative is part of EPA’s National Clean Diesel Campaign, which includes the grant program announced today and works to clean up diesels that are already on our roads and rails, at our construction sites and in our harbors."

Funding under the NEDC emissions reduction grant program supports projects that significantly reduce tons of diesel pollution produced, particularly from fleets operating in areas designated by the Administrator as poor air quality areas. The program reduces pollution from heavy duty diesel vehicles and equipment that are currently used on the road or off the road, such as for construction or farming. Eligible vehicles, engines and equipment may include but are not limited to: buses; medium-duty or heavy-duty trucks; marine engines; locomotives; and nonroad engines or vehicles used in construction; handling or cargo (including at a port or airport); agriculture; mining; or energy production.

EPA is accepting proposals for funding from regional, state, local or tribal agencies or port authorities with jurisdiction over transportation or air quality. Proposals will also be accepted from nonprofit organizations or institutions that represent or provide pollution reduction or educational services to persons or organizations that own or operate diesel fleets or that have, as their principal purpose, the promotion of transportation or air quality. School districts, municipalities, metropolitan planning organizations, cities and counties are all eligible provided that they fall within the definition above.

EPA will host two Question and Answer sessions via teleconference on April 10 from 10:00 am to 12 noon and May 7 from 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM to answer questions and provide additional information about this funding competition. The call-in number for both sessions is: 866-299-3188. Enter Conference Code: 212 637 3745 #.

For more information, including a copy of the Request for Proposals, please visit: http://www.northeastdiesel.org/ or contact Matt Laurita (212) 637-3895.

See the Source:

North East Diesel

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How to reduce diesel emissions using diesel particulate filters

EPA Clears the Air: New Standards Drastically Cut Locomotive and Marine Diesel Pollution

New tough emissions standards will slash pollution from locomotive and marine diesel engines by up to 90 percent, helping Americans to breathe cleaner air as soon as this year.

"Today EPA is fitting another important piece into the clean diesel puzzle by cleaning emissions from our trains and boats," said EPA Administrator Stephen L. Johnson. "As more and more goods flow through our ports and railways, EPA is cutting diesel emissions at their source – keeping our nation on track toward a clean, healthy, productive tomorrow."

When fully implemented, these new standards will reduce soot or particulate matter (PM) by 90 percent or 27,000 tons and reduce nitrogen oxides emissions (NOx) by 80 percent or nearly 800,000 tons. Nationwide this regulation will help prevent 1,400 premature deaths, and 120,000 lost workdays annually in 2030. The estimated annual health benefits are valued between $8.4 billion and $12 billion. When these older locomotive and marine engines reach the end of their useful life, and new engines enter into the nation's diesel fleet, the benefits of today's action will increase.

Working in collaboration with our partners and our commitment to clean technology helps make EPA's Clean Diesel Locomotive and Marine program possible. The rule cuts emissions from all types of diesel locomotives, including line-haul, switch, and passenger rail, as well as from a wide range of marine sources, including ferries, tugboats, Great Lake freighters and all types of marine auxiliary engines.

For the first time ever, this rule requires remanufacturing standards for marine engines, reductions in engine idling, and the use of after treatment technology that will further reduce diesel emissions. Phasing in tighter long-term standards for PM and NOx will begin in 2014 for marine diesel engines and in 2015 for locomotive engines. Advanced after-treatment technology will apply to both types of engines. The effective dates for NOx will be two years earlier from last year's proposal, bringing cleaner air sooner.

Today's action is another achievement in EPA's efforts to reduce pollution from diesel engines. This new rule complements the Clean Air Nonroad Diesel Rule and the Clean Air Diesel Truck and Bus Rule, currently underway nationwide.

See the Source:

Clean Diesel Locomotive

Clean Diesel Marine

Media Actuality (sound bite)

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diesel emissions

No Time to Idle: Emission and Idling Reduction Technologies for EPA 2010

North American heavy duty truck manufacturers seek to position themselves as global leaders in green technology and as a result market participants have made concerted efforts to develop innovative emission reduction technologies and solutions. Currently, market participants face imminent industry regulations that address issues ranging from diesel engine emissions to idling. The implementation of these regulations will offer market participants an opportunity to leverage their technological innovations by introducing products and solutions that ensure compliance as well as demonstrate a return on investment.

New analysis from Frost & Sullivan, Strategic Analysis of Emission and Idling Reduction Technologies for EPA 2010 and Idling Regulations Compliance, observes that as global emission regulations tighten in an effort to reduce global warming and fossil fuel reliance, the market for emission and idling reduction technologies will experience considerable growth.

“Stricter environmental regulations, growing generic competition and spiraling R&D costs have caused the North American heavy-duty truck industry to pay closer attention to the impending emission and idling reduction regulations,” notes Frost & Sullivan Program Manager Sandeep Kar.

The implementation of these regulations will incite market participants to offer the most feasible and pertinent emission reduction solutions at attractive price-points. Moreover, escalating fuel efficiency concerns, foreign oil dependency, air quality deterioration, global warming and noise pollution concerns will continue to spur regulations as well as demand for emission reduction technologies.

Regulators and public interest groups scrutinize heavy trucks due to their immense weight, large dimensions, power requirements, emissions and the valuable goods they haul. The current regulatory environment related to emission reduction offers market participants an opportunity to create new revenue streams by developing innovative solutions. These regulations offer opportunities for market participants to develop hardware systems that reduce emissions as well as services and applications that enable regulation compliance monitoring.

However, the high up-front and lifecycle costs of most emission reduction solutions represent major marketing challenges for developers. Moreover, several fleet operators have opted to wait until core and enabling technologies mature before making decisions regarding emission reduction technologies.

“Market participants have to identify and invest in the most pertinent technologies among a vast array of emerging technologies that can facilitate the development of solutions offering sustainable revenue growth opportunities,” says Kar. “The challenge is to not only develop and introduce such technologies and solutions, but also to do so at the lowest incremental cost.”
The current situation demands concerted efforts by all stakeholders to develop standardized technology platforms that can spawn innovative and cost-effective emission reduction solutions. The development and introduction of harmonized engines, aftertreatment systems and idling reduction solutions will likely benefit end users by providing an attractive return on investment for regulatory compliance technologies.

Additionally, industry participants and consumers must act collaboratively to ensure collective action aimed at increasing adoption of emission reduction technologies. Vertical integration activities, such as OEM partnerships for the development and introduction of advanced emission reduction technologies will also increase adoption.

Strategic Analysis of Emission and Idling Reduction Technologies for EPA 2010 and Idling Regulations Compliance, is part of the Automotive & Transportation Growth Partnership Service program, which also includes research in the following markets: heavy truck technologies, advanced automotive technologies, and automotive aftermarket technologies.

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Frost & Sullivan

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More on diesel particulate filters for off-road vehicles and stationary engines

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diesel emissions

Survey of Top 10 Ports Urges Action at National Level

Study Ranks U.S. Container Ports Among Nation’s Biggest Polluters, But Movement to Clean Alternative Fuels Gains Momentum

U.S. ports are among the biggest sources of air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions in their cities, and progress toward reducing harmful emissions has been slow, according to a new research study conducted by Energy Futures, Inc.

Titled “U.S. Container Ports and Air Pollution: a Perfect Storm,” the report on the study presents findings of a 10-month effort in 2007 that assessed air pollution control efforts at America’s top 10 container ports. Study author and Energy Futures President James Cannon made on-site research visits to each of the ports, which together handle about 80 percent of all U.S. imports. Ports included in the study were: Los Angeles, CA; Long Beach, CA; New York and neighboring New Jersey; Oakland, CA; Savannah, GA; Tacoma, WA; Hampton Roads, VA; Seattle, WA; Charleston, SC; and Houston, TX.

Ports pose grave health risks to millions of people living in metropolitan coastal areas, especially those living nearest the ports. “The combination of growing U.S. port activity, the densely populated regions where most ports are located, and the prevailing onshore wind patterns that accumulate rather than disperse port air pollution create a ‘perfect storm’ of threats to public health,” Cannon said.

Cannon explained, “We’ve concluded that the best way to lower air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions and diversify fuel supply at U.S. container ports is to use alternative fuels or advanced technologies to replace diesel.” The study found that natural gas is currently the leading alternative fuel for goods movement.

Each step of the goods movement process today — from delivery of goods to ports and from there by truck or rail to U.S. consumers — is powered by diesel fuel. Burning diesel fuel releases health-threatening toxic air contaminants, smog-forming air pollution and climate-changing greenhouse gases.

Container ports are one of the fastest growing business sectors in the U.S., according to Energy Futures. Oceangoing container cargo ships make more than 10,000 visits annually to American ports. Container shipments rose 80 percent in the last decade alone, with nearly 45 million twenty-foot equivalent units (TEUs) of containers unloaded or loaded at U.S. marine ports in 2006.

Programs to counteract the pollution problem are progressing now at several of the ports under study, most notably in California, the report indicates. Six projects are currently underway in the state to deploy fleets of natural gas-powered cargo handling vehicles. Efforts to replace diesel fuel with clean-burning liquefied natural gas (LNG) are in process at the three largest container ports in California - Los Angeles, Long Beach and Oakland.

The Energy Futures report is a call to action at the national level to reduce air pollution at U.S. container ports. Decision makers must develop policies designed to maintain port growth momentum, while preserving public health and environmental quality. “Port air pollution is bad and getting worse,” warns Cannon. A patchwork of local programs, however innovative, cannot equitably finance cleanup efforts or solve this disturbing national problem.

Based on its “Perfect Storm” research findings, Energy Futures has developed policy recommendations as the national debate about how to combat growing air pollution at U.S. ports intensifies.

The report urges decision makers to:
- Promote the use of alternative fuels and advanced technologies to reduce air pollution and greenhouse gases
- Develop and Implement a national port clean-up strategy at the federal government level
- Create a national funding mechanism to finance comprehensive port clean-up
- Advocate global environmental standards in the international arena, and
- Create a global clearinghouse of information about port clean-up efforts.

See the Source:
Energy Futures - U.S. Container Ports and Air Pollution: A Perfect Storm

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How to reduce diesel particulate pollution using diesel particulate filters from CleanAIR Systems

diesel emissions

California Proposes New Regulations to Reduce Diesel Pollution at Ports

The California Air Resources Board Chairman Mary Nichols highlighted two port-related emissions reductions programs on Wednesday, Dec. 5th. If passed by the full Board later this week, the programs will dramatically reduce diesel particulate matter pollution from ships and trucks throughout the state by 2014.

The first regulation requires operators of certain types of ocean-going vessels to shut down their diesel auxiliary engines while docked at the state's busiest ports in favor of using shore-based electrical power. The second regulation is aimed at cleaning up emissions from the aging fleet of dirty diesel trucks that hauls goods around the clock to and from ports and rail yards throughout the state.

"These first-of-their-kind measures will continue our work to slash port-related emissions," Nichols said. "Residents from San Pedro to Oakland will breathe easier as a result of our aggressive actions to clean up diesel emissions from ports throughout the state. We owe it to the long-suffering ports communities to continue our quest of reducing all the emissions we can from ships, trucks and trains."

ARB adopted strategies in December 2005 that require cleaner engines in cargo handling equipment and clean fuel on ships.

Combined with the measures before the Board this week, ARB regulations will reduce diesel particulate matter emissions from container and cruise ship terminals by almost two-thirds by 2010, and by an estimated 75 percent by 2014. Overall diesel soot emissions will decline by 1,800 tons per year in 2014.

Shore Power
The new regulation will require certain fleet operators of container, passenger and refrigerated cargo ships ("reefers") to turn off their auxiliary engines -- which power lighting, ventilation, pumps and other onboard equipment -- while a ship is docked for most of its stay in port. The rule will affect almost 95 percent of the ship visits in these three categories.

Once docked, operators would then be expected to receive their electricity from shore-based sources or meet percentage reductions through other means. Ports affected by the regulation are those most visited: Los Angeles, Long Beach, Oakland, San Diego, San Francisco and Hueneme in Ventura County.

A 2005 ARB exposure study at the ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach shows that more than two million people live in areas around the ports with predicted cancer risks of greater than 10 in a million due emissions from docked ocean-going vessels. From that study and other data, ARB estimates that about 61 premature deaths per year can be attributed to exposure to diesel exhaust generated from ships in port.

Container, passenger and reefer vessels call at California ports almost 6,000 times each year, accounting for nearly 85 percent of the emissions from all docked ships. In 2006, approximately 1.8 tons per day of diesel particulate matter and 21 tons per day of oxides of nitrogen (NOx), a key ingredient of smog, were emitted from the diesel-fueled auxiliary engines of docked ships. The regulation is expected to reduce diesel and smog-forming emissions from docked container, passenger and reefer ships by nearly 50 percent relative to levels otherwise expected to be emitted in 2014, and 80 percent by 2020.

Next year, ARB expects to introduce a similar rule that will reduce emissions from bulk ships, tankers and vehicle carriers.

Port Trucks
ARB staff estimates that California has about 20,000 port or "drayage" trucks that frequently visit the ports and rail yards and have the greatest impact on local air quality. Drayage trucks are a significant source of diesel particulate matter, contributing three tons per day statewide. With regards to the smog precursor NOx, port trucks emit 61 tons per day.

The regulation is expected to reduce diesel particulate matter emissions from drayage trucks from baseline 2007 levels some 86 percent (2.6 tons per day) by 2010. Emissions of NOx are expected to be reduced from 2007 baseline levels by 62 percent (42 tons per day) by 2014.

ARB estimates that the proposed regulation will prevent 1,200 premature deaths from 2009 through 2020, with benefits being the most dramatic in the communities where port trucks are heavily concentrated.

Phase one of the new regulation requires all pre-1994 drayage truck engines be retired or replaced with 1994 and newer engines by the end of 2009. In addition, trucks with 1994-2003 engines will need to be either replaced or retrofitted to achieve an 85 percent reduction in diesel particulate matter by the same deadline. The second phase of the regulation requires all drayage trucks to meet 2007 emissions standards by the end of 2013.

The rule also requires compliant trucks working at the 14 ports and 11 rail yards affected by this regulation to be entered into a special registry by late 2009.

Next year, the Board will consider a similar measure which will focus on reducing emissions from in-use private heavy duty diesel truck fleets.

See the Source:

CARB

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How to reduce diesel particulate matter by using diesel particulate filters from CleanAIR Systems.

diesel emissions

EPA Seeks to Cut International Ship Emissions

On Nov. 29th, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency announced plans for new emission standards for diesel engines on board large ocean-going vessels. The advance notice of proposed rulemaking reflects the approach set out in the U.S. Government's recent proposal to the International Maritime Organization and would require the use of high-efficiency aftertreatment technology and lower sulfur marine fuels to reduce NOx and PM emissions.

"Diesel ships are a global economic workhorse. By advancing clean diesel technology, this economic workhorse can become an environmental workhorse," said EPA Administrator Stephen L. Johnson. "Working with the International Maritime Organization, EPA is reducing emissions from the shipping sector – making ports across the world harbors of cleaner air."

The advance notice of proposed rulemaking targets emissions from the largest marine diesel engines. These "Category 3" marine engines are used primarily for propulsion power on ocean-going vessels, such as container ships, tankers, cruise ships and bulk carriers. As foreign trade grows and new emissions controls take effect on other transportation sources, emissions from these ships comprise an increasing share of the nation's pollution inventory.

The approach described in both the domestic and international initiatives would consist of performance-based standards for new and existing Category 3 engines, including:

· Tier 2 NOx limits for new Category 3 engines beginning in 2011 that would achieve a 15 to 25 percent NOx reduction.

· Tier 3 NOx limits for new Category 3 engines beginning in 2016 that would apply when ships are operating in U.S. ports and coastal areas and that would require the use of high efficiency catalytic aftertreatment emission control technology capable of reducing NOx emissions by 80 percent or more.

· NOx limits for existing engines (those built before Jan. 1, 2000) that would achieve a 20 percent NOx reduction; these standards would phase-in beginning 2010/2012

· PM and SOx performance standards beginning in 2011 that would apply to all vessels when they are operating in U.S. ports and coastal areas and that could be achieved through the use of low sulfur fuel or the use of exhaust gas cleaning technology.

EPA is providing 60 days for comments on the advance notice of proposed rulemaking. In addition, a schedule for this rulemaking was finalized today, setting a completion date of Dec. 17, 2009.

More information about the advance notice of proposed rulemaking, the timetable for rulemaking, and the government's proposal to the International Maritime Organization (which is presented as a series of amendments to Annex VI of the International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution from Ships) is available at: http://www.epa.gov/otaq/oceanvessels.htm

Air Pollution Facts: Current Stats from the News

1. Iowa’s Clear the Air (a coalition of organizations fighting global warming) reports the following Iowa state statistics according to data collected by consultants for the EPA:
- 323 annual deaths attributed to fine particle pollution from power plants
- 40,988 lost work days
- 333 hospitalzations
- 7,322 asthma attacks

2. The Senate has recently passed a bill that will require car owners to buy:
- 36 billion gallons of ethanol by 2022

But Nobel Prize recipient, Paul Crutzen, warns that intensive cultivation of biofuels could actually increase the greenhouse effect up to 70% MORE than burning fossil fuels. According to Crutzen, a byproduct of fertilizer used in growing biofuels is nitrous oxide. This greenhouse gas has almost 300 times the heat-trapping properties of CO2 (one of the most common greenhouse gases produced by burning fossil fuels).

3. Levels of ozone and particulate matter in Europe have not improved since 1997, despite significant reductions in pollutants from emissions.

4. Global energy demands will rise by 50% by the year 2030, from 85 millions barrels of oil a day to 116 million barrels a day, according to the International Energy Agency. Almost half of the increase in demand will be attributed to China and India.

5. Sea level is projected to rise 1 to 3 feet within the next 100 years due to global warming and climate change.

6. To date, the US Congress has not passed a single bill to cap and reduce global warming pollution in the United State’s.

7. In California alone, 28,000 tons of particulate matter are emitted annually from diesel-fueled vehicles and engines. This includes 1 million+ on- and off-road vehicles, 16,000 stationary engines, and approximately 50,000 portable engines.

8. Due to smog and particulate matter, India is now receiving less sunlight than it did 20 years ago.

9. Air pollution is costing China 3.8 percent of its gross domestic product, with particulate matter becoming a major health threat.

10. China’s combined health and non-health cost of outdoor air pollution and water pollution is about 100 billion U.S. dollars annually according to the World Bank.

Find out:

How to cut emissions of particulate matter from diesel on- and off-road vehicles, as well as stationary engines by using diesel particulate filters from CleanAIR Systems.

air pollution
diesel emissions

Got a California Diesel Truck? Take the ARB Survey

The California Air Resources Board (CARB) is conducting an online survey on the use of certain on-road diesel trucks, such as long-haul and local delivery, to gather info on their use and age. CARB is requesting any person, business or corporation in California that owns or leases, for twelve months or more, any diesel-powered truck, bus, pickup, or other vehicle to complete the survey.

To access the Heavy-Duty Vehicles Survey go to:
http://www.arb.ca.gov/msprog/onrdiesel/onroad_survey/index.php

Hot Off the PDF Press: CleanAIR Systems’ Emissions and Product Guidebook

Environmental consultants and equipment dealers for diesel powered engines know the importance of emissions control regulations. So does CleanAIR Systems. Today’s air quality standards are tough and getting tougher. With daily changes being made to CARB and EPA rulings, it’s hard to keep up-to-date and informed. To make the job less demanding, CleanAIR Systems, a leading manufacturer of emissions control technology, has compiled a free 60-page, PDF e-book entitled the Emissions and Product Guidebook.

Distributed as a no-cost service to qualified consultants and dealers, the hyperlinked Emissions and Product Guidebook includes:
- Current regulatory information, emissions summary charts and resource links from the California - Air Resources Board (CARB) and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)
- A glossary on emissions control technology
- FAQs related to emissions control
- An extensive directory of abbreviations and acronyms related to air pollution
- A directory of California Air Quality Agencies
- Current EU regulations
- Product cut-sheets from CleanAIR Systems

Environmental and engineering consultants, as well as equipment dealers, often face the task of bringing a client into compliance with air quality standards. From identifying regulatory requirements to analyzing possible emissions control technologies to implementing long-term strategies, the job can be daunting. By publishing the easy-to-use Emissions and Product Guidebook, CleanAIR Systems hopes to make the task less time-consuming and problematic.

To request the Emissions and Product Guidebook go to http://www.cleanairsys.com/emissionsguide/contact.asp.

Those who sign-up to receive the Guidebook will also be emailed future updates as part of the free service from CleanAIR Systems.

About CleanAIR Systems:
CleanAIR Systems is a technology-based corporation manufacturing emissions control systems with worldwide distribution. Their products are designed to control air pollution such as diesel particulate matter and NOx, for on- and off-road vehicles, as well as stationary machinery and power generation. Visit CleanAIR Systems online at http://www.cleanairsys.com/.

air pollution
emissions control

Local Advocacy Group to Stage Diesel Showdown

Diesel Pollution Solution Coalition, a Massachusetts advocacy group, staged a landmark diesel retrofit demonstration on Monday, October 22nd. The demonstration is the first in a series of rallies being held around Boston in support of An Act to Protect Public Health and Air Quality from Harmful Diesel Emissions (H-732 and S-502), currently before the State Senate Ways and Means Committee.

Passage of An Act to Protect Public Health and Air Quality from Harmful Diesel Emissions would require all heavy-duty diesel fleets owned, operated or contracted by the State be retrofitted with diesel particulate filters by 2010, reducing the level of diesel pollution produced in and around Massachusetts' urban communities by vehicles such as garbage trucks, construction equipment, delivery vehicles and trains. As part of the demonstration, pollution output will be measured on a retrofitted clean-diesel truck, against a traditional diesel-powered vehicle of comparable weight and size to underscore the effectiveness of advanced emissions control technology in reducing harmful emissions.

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About diesel particulate filters and how they reduce emissions of particulate matter, hydrocarbons, and carbon monoxide.

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diesel emissions

Final Regulation Order Approved for Air Toxic Control Measure

The California Office of Administrative Law approved the amended Air Toxic Control Measure (ATCM) for Stationary Compression Ignition Engines on September 18th. The amended ATCM will become effective on October 18, 2007.






To view the Final Regulation Order go to: http://www.arb.ca.gov/regact/agen06/agen06.htm

Find out:
How emissions from stationary compression ignition engines (emergency and prime power generators) can be made cleaner and quieter using filter/silencers from CleanAIR Systems.

Research Finds Diesel Exhaust Kills Throat Cells

Press Release:

September 11 - Researchers at Deakin University have found that diesel exhaust is far more damaging to our health than exhaust from biodiesel, the plant-based fuel.

Associate Professor Leigh Ackland, Associate Head of Deakin’s School of Life and Environmental Sciences, led a team of researchers who compared the effects of diesel exhaust and biodiesel exhaust on human airway cells. They found that diesel exhaust damaged and killed the cells, while biodiesel exhaust had little effect.

"Australia's escalating need for fuel is posing a major health problem," Associate Professor Ackland said.

"The fumes from burning fuels, including diesel, contributes to pollution and can cause heart disease, bronchitis and asthma. Efforts are underway to replace petrol and diesel with cleaner biofuels, such as biodiesel, but there is considerable resistance to this.

"This study provides clear evidence that diesel exhaust is more harmful to our health than biodiesel exhaust."

As it is not possible to study in real time what happens in the real human airway, the researchers conducted their research on human airway cells grown in a culture. The cells were exposed to the particulate matter emitted in diesel and biodiesel exhaust fumes.

"Particulate matter is the burnt material, including carbon particles, emitted into the air. This particulate matter is part of biodiesel and diesel fumes but the particles produced from biodiesel were much less damaging to the cells than particles produced from diesel," Associate Professor Ackland explained.

"Our research found that the particulate matter from diesel exhaust stimulated a ‘death pathway’ response that the body uses to dispose of damaged cells. This response caused the airway cells to fuse together and die.

"We saw hardly any cell death after treatment with biodiesel particulates."

Associate Professor Ackland said that the results of the study provide support for calls to move towards replacing petrol and diesel with cleaner biofuels.

"It is clear that breathing in diesel fumes is going to have a far more detrimental effect on our health than biodiesel. Given the level of cell death we have found, diesel exhaust could be the cause of respiratory disorders such as asthma and could even be implicated in cancer," she said.

The study has been published in the lastest edition of the international journal Immunology and Cell Biology.

See the Source:
Deakin University

Find out:
How diesel particulate filters virtually eliminate particulate matter from diesel and biodiesel fuels. Watch video.

diesel pollution
particulate matter

See How a Diesel Particulate Filter Works (Video)

Have you ever wondered what's inside of a diesel particulate filter? How it works to clean soot from exhaust?

Here's an animation video from CleanAIR Systems showing how a diesel particulate filter (DPF) performs oxidation to virtually eliminate particulate matter (soot, black smoke) from diesel exhaust. A DPF also gets rid of up to 99% of carbon monoxide and hydrocarbon emissions.

Air Pollution News Bytes: 09-06-07

Pollution Sensor for Children
If your child suffers from asthma or allergies, new technology being developed by the University of Cincinnati, Washington University, NASA, Glenn Research Center and the National Institutes of Health may help them avoid areas with high levels of particulate pollution. Fine soot particles or particulate matter (PM) can aggravate asthmatic symptoms.

Using a geographic information system coupled with a pollution sensor, the device can be worn during the day by the child to record specific locations of high PM. Originally developed for use by astronauts, the device will be field-tested by 8 year olds participating in the University of Cincinnati Department of Environmental Health's Cincinnati Childhood Allergy and Air Pollution Study.

WVU Gets $2.1 Million to Study Air Pollution's Effect on the Heart
West Virginia University researcher, Dr. Timothy R. Nurkiewicz, was awarded a $2.1 million grant to study the health impact of particulate matter and engineered nanoparticles on the cardiovascular system. Research will cover possible risks related to inhaling particulate, such as impairing the ability of blood vessels to dilate and immune system activation - meaning blood vessels are not capable of getting bigger, therefore blood flow is inhibited.

“Our hypothesis is that combustion source particulate matter impairs the vascular and immune systems in such a manner that blood flow to tissues is greatly compromised,” Nurkiewicz said. “We’re focusing primarily on diesel particles because they’re environmentally relevant and one of the most prolific components of ambient air pollution.”

Particulate matter is one of six common pollutants currently regulated by the EPA.

EPA Sued Over Ship Pollution
Earthjustice, representing Friends of the Earth, have sued the EPA for failing to meet a deadline to regulate large ship pollution. According to Earthjustice, the EPA has indefinitely postponed a deadline to set emissions standards for ship engines. The suit was filed on Sept. 5th in federal district court.

Large ocean-going vessels emit high levels of diesel exhaust, with smokestack emissions from global shipping expected to double over North America within the next decade. One cruise ship docked can emit pollution equal to 350,000 cars, with major ports having hundreds of ships in port each month.

"Air quality in port cities like Seattle and Oakland takes a beating every time a large ship pulls into dock," said Teri Shore of Friends of the Earth. "The Bush EPA promised to act months ago to rein in ship smokestack pollution, but instead they have delayed regulations. Port communities are fed up and suffering, that's why we went to court today."

"In Los Angeles alone, the ships in port spew more pollution than the metro area's six million cars combined. Residents of nearby neighborhoods have high rates of respiratory illness and the region's highest cancer risk. We're taking action today to fix this health hazard," said Sarah Burt of Earthjustice.

See the Source:
MSN.money
West Virginia University
Earthjustice

Find out:
How diesel particulate filters are used to reduce toxic particulate matter in air pollution. View videos of the CleanAIR PERMIT Filter at work.

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diesel particulate traps

Diesel Long Haul Trucks from Mexico

On September 6, Mexico will begin a one-year pilot program allowing direct shipments by long haul trucks crossing the Mexican border into the USA. Part of the 1994 North American Free Trade Agreement, the trucking provision was never put in place during the Clinton Administration. In 2001, the Bush Administration was ordered to comply with the provision. Due to an initiative by consumer, labor and environmental interests to block the Mexican trucks, many of which are older diesel vehicles, the program has been held up for years in the court system. On August 31st, the 9th Circuit Court of Appeals in San Fransisco denied petitions to hault the program and approved the Bush administration to move forward.

As the pilot program is put in place, it will allow approximately 540 rigs meeting safety, licensing, and other US requirments to travel directly over US borders to their destination, rather than transferring goods to US-owned trucks.

In 2005, the California Air Resources Board (CARB) published a report on Mexican truck traffic in regards to the first phase of the trucking provision. Their findings report the following air pollution concers:
- an extra 50 tons of NOx and 2.5 tons of particulate matter a day will be added to California's South Coast Air Basin
- 66% of Mexican trucks are older (pre-1993) diesel models and do not have electronic fuel injection
- 25% are diesel trucks older than 1979 having extremely high emissions of NOx and particulate matter
- unlike the US, Mexico does not require trucks to use ultra-low sulfur diesel fuel

See the Source:
Reuters
Landline

diesel emissions
NOx emissions
particle pollution

High Pollution Affecting Children in Mexico City

According to researchers in Mexico, children who are chronically exposed to higher levels of air pollution show marked deficiencies in lung growth and function.

"Our study revealed significant deficits in lung function growth in children with long-term exposure to air pollutants,” wrote Isabelle Romieu, M.D., M.P.H., lead author of the study. "In addition to the important impact of lung health, early lung deficits may increase the risk of developing chronic obstructive lung disease later in life, as well as cardiovascular morbidity and general mortality.

These conclusions are the result of a three-year, multi-site prospective study that measured lung function growth in 3,170 eight-year-old children at 39 schools in Mexico City and analyzed it with respect to the children’s exposure to common urban pollutants: ozone (O3), nitrogen dioxide (NO2), and particulate matter under 10 μm (PM10).

Dr. Romieu, of the Instituto Nacional de Salud Publico in Mexico, and eight colleagues reported their findings in the second issue for August of the American Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, published by the American Thoracic Society.

Previous studies have found that short-term exposure to pollutants is associated with acute but reversible deficits in lung function, but the effects of long-term exposure, like that experienced by residents of heavily polluted urban environments, had not been conclusively characterized.

Although all measurements of lung function increased over time, the researchers found that higher exposure to O3, NO2 and PM10 was significantly associated with growth deficits.

“At the beginning of the study and at each phase of follow-up, children exposed to lower O3 and PM10 concentrations had better lung function values that children exposed to higher concentrations,” wrote the researchers.

The study could not determine the mechanism by which pollutants change lung growth, but other studies have found differences in lung morphology related to O3 exposure, and suggested that chronic exposure to PM and O3 may be associated with small airway disease.

Recently, oxidative stress from oxidant compounds, including O3, NO2 and PM has been identified as a potential cause of an inflammatory response, which could then lead to chronic lung damage. The reversibility of the damage is unclear, but the authors note that previous studies have reported long-term deficits in lung function associated with air pollutants.

“Although we could not identify specific sources [of the pollutants], the effect is likely to be due to vehicular exhaust,” wrote the researchers, concluding that “there is a clear need for stricter air pollution measures in Mexico City to protect lung growth in children living there.”

See the Source:
Newswise

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How to reduce particulate matter from diesel engines using diesel particulate filters.

air pollution
particle pollution

Old Diesels Sold to Other Countries

The San Francisco Chronicle reported on August 12, that many California businesses with large diesel fleets such as rental companies and construction firms are selling older vehicles rather than retrofitting them to meet tough California Air Resources Board (CARB) regulations soon to go into effect. This means most aging diesels are being sold to states with less stringent air quality standards or to countries in Asia or South America. Although CARB’s new rulings will help decrease pollution in California, the act of reselling old diesel equipment is, in effect, the exportation of air pollution rather than solving the global problem of emissions control.

See the Source:
San Francisco Chronicle

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About diesel particulate filters for on- and off-road vehicles

diesel pollution

New Report by EPA Details Cost-Effectiveness of Diesel Retrofits

The EPA has released "Diesel Retrofit Technology: An Analysis of the Cost Effectiveness of Reducing Particulate Matter and Nitrogen Oxides Emissions from Heavy-Duty Nonroad Diesel Engines Through Retrofits." Available online as a 17-page PDF, the report discusses retrofit options, how they can be a cost-effective strategy for off-road diesel vehicles in reducing emissions, and estimates for various retrofit scenarios.

From the report:
Retrofit projects can begin producing emission reductions immediately and can help State and local governments reduce emissions of PM2.5, nitrogen oxides (NOx), and volatile organic compounds (VOC) in the near term. Retrofits include a wide range of emission reduction strategies available for diesel vehicles and equipment, including:

• Retrofitting engines with verified technologies
• Using cleaner fuels
• Replacing older equipment
• Repowering (replacing old engines with new, cleaner engines
• Reducing idling
• Properly maintaining equipment
• Gaining operational efficiencies

Retrofit technologies are advancing at a rapid pace. The use of established technologies, such as diesel oxidation catalysts (DOCs) and diesel particulate filters (DPFs), continues to grow exponentially, while new, emerging technologies such as Lean NOx (LNC) catalysts, are steadily improving. Retrofit technologies often vary in the type of pollutant reduced. DOCs and DPFs remove PM from the exhaust, but do not reduce NOx. However, DOCs or DPFs can be combined with a NOx reduction strategy – such as a cleaner fuel – to enhance the emission reduction benefits.

See the Source:
EPA Report

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More on diesel particulate filters for off-road vehicles such as construction and mining equipment.

diesel pollution
diesel retrofit

Is Your Daily Commute Giving You a Heart Attack?

Recently, German researchers from the University of Duisberg-Essen found that regularly commuting in heavy traffic or living in high-traffic areas can contribute to atherosclerosis, high blood pressure and an increase risk of a heart attack. Using ongoing data from three industrialized cities in Germany, the researchers found that breathing air pollution at this level created the same damage as inhaling second hand smoke.

They surmised the artery damage was most likely caused by a high concentration of particulate matter from vehicle emissions. This is the first study to establish a direct link to air pollution created by traffic and arterial damage.

“The only immediate protective action that can be taken by people living close to heavy traffic is increased attention to known cardiac risk factors, such as obesity and high blood pressure,” said Dr. Hoffmann, head researcher for the project. “Over the longer run, community action is needed.”

Using data already on record, Forbes magazine compiled three factors to come up with the unhealthiest commutes in the U.S. They looked at levels of particulate pollution; the estimated time spent in rush hour traffic; and the per-capita fatal car accidents registered for a region. From the collected data, the unhealthiest workday drives are: Riverside, CA; Atlanta, GA; and Los Angles, CA. Apparently LA drivers spend the most time in traffic.

The average American takes 25 minutes to drive to work, during that time the California Air Resources Board (CARB) estimates this time equals 50% of a person’s daily exposure to fine particulate matter – one of the worst pollutants to inhale and a known contributor to heart disease.

See the Source:
Heartzine.com
Forbes

Find out:
The health and environmental impact of diesel particulate matter.

air pollution
particle pollution

Union Pacific Railroad Settles Air Quality Violations with $120,000

This press release was just issued by the California Air Resources Board:

Union Pacific Railroad, headquartered in Omaha, NE, recently paid $120,000 for violations of regulations requiring companies to inspect and verify that their diesel trucks in California meet state exhaust limits.

An investigation by the California Air Resources Board revealed that between 2004 and 2005, UP failed to properly inspect and document its diesel trucks' emissions throughout California.

California's Periodic Smoke Inspection program requires owners of diesel fleets with two or more heavy duty diesel engines to inspect and maintain them, and keep records. This expedites inspections, assures compliance, and guards the state's progress toward federally mandated clean air standards.

"Compliance with our regulations is the crux to clean healthful air for all Californians," said ARB's acting-Executive Officer, Tom Cackette. "We need companies to recognize that Californians demand clean air and that enforcement actions are an extension of their desire to live in a healthy and respected environment."

Most of the money from the settlement was paid into the California Air Pollution Control Fund, which mitigates pollution through education, the advancement and use of cleaner technology, and supports pollution research and related programs. The California Legislature controls the fund through allocations in the annual Budget Act.

$30,000 of the settlement is funding an ARB program operated by select community colleges that provides industry with technical and compliance training. Fleet maintenance personnel from the companies found in violation must go through this training program as a condition of settlement.

Emissions of particulate matter from diesel engines are 70 percent of the air borne carcinogens that Californians are exposed to on a daily basis. ARB has committed to reducing these emissions by 85 percent by 2020.

The Air Resources Board is a department of the California Environmental Protection Agency. ARB's mission is to promote and protect public health, welfare, and ecological resources through effective reduction of air pollutants while recognizing and considering effects on the economy. The ARB oversees all air pollution control efforts in California to attain and maintain health based air quality standards.

See the Source:
CARB

diesel emissions
air pollution

Air Pollution News for 07-24-07

- An organic chemist and two engineers from Wales believe they have developed the answer to our green house gas problem. “Greenbox” is technology that captures GHG emissions such as CO2 and NOx from a car, turning the vehicle’s emissions into mostly water vapor. The box captures emissions, holds the gases in an inert state, where they are then transported to a bioreactor where algae will turn the gases into biofuels. Eventually the Greenbox will be able to be used on most on vehicles, and possibly even buildings and power plants that emit greenhouse gases.

- The Coalition to Build a Cleaner California is asking new chairwoman of the California Air Resources Board (CARB), Mary Nichols to extend the deadline for reducing emissions on off-road diesel vehicles from 2020 to 2025. The Coalition is made up of representatives from the labor unions, construction companies and the airline industry. The construction industry believes that the proposed regulations will cost up to $13 billion and a loss of 30,000 jobs, causing many companies to retire old equipment, creating a loss of income and jobs. CARB and environmentalists believe that without strict regulations to reduce emissions of diesel particulate matter and NOx, air pollution will put many lives at risk in California. An estimated 180,000 off-road diesel vehicles operate in the state.

- The LA Times reports that China has stopped two environmental reports that would have opened up embarrassing and serious facts on their increasing problems with air and water pollution. China is now considered the most polluted country in the world, with an estimated 600,000 citizens dieing each year due to air pollution. Although China is putting in place stringent regulations, enforcement is often spotty or not implemented at all due to attitudes by regional officials.

See the Source:
Motoring
San Francisco Chronicle
LA Times

Find out:
See video on how emissions from off-road diesel vehicles are decreased using diesel particulate filters. Watch now.

air pollution
diesel emissions

Diesel Particulate Filter on Off-Road Equipment

Below is a video showing how a diesel particulate filter works on an off-road vehicle. The CleanAIR PERMIT Filter is installed on a diesel loader used at a mine. The CARB verified PERMIT Filter is a custom designed diesel particulate filter used to virtually eliminate emissions of particulate matter, carbon monoxide and hydrocarbons from diesel exhaust. The video shows before and after emissions testing by the National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) with a visible, dramatic reduction in particulate emissions (black smoke or soot) using the PERMIT Filter.

Keep on Truckin’- B20 vs. Diesel in the Two Million Mile Haul

The Two Million Mile Haul is the first major study in a real-world setting comparing the performance of B20 biodiesel (a mixture of 20% soy biodiesel and 80% diesel) with diesel on long haul trucks on an over-the-road test covering 2 million miles. To date the test has completed 350,000 miles of its goal with favorable results and only minor issues.

Observations so far have shown:

• Cleaner engine oil
  
  
• Positive impact on engine wear
  
  
• Decreased maintenance due to increased lubricity
  
  
• No cold weather issues – even with temperatures in the teens and single digits

Organizations and companies participating in the study include:
- Caterpillar
- Decker Truck Line
- The National Biodiesel Board
- Iowa Central Community College
- Soy Power Biodiesel
- United States Department of Agriculture
- Iowa Soybean Association

Dale Decker, Industry & Government Relations Director for Decker Truck Line explains “What we’ve observed so far is great performance in the particularly cold winter we just experienced, and reduced maintenance and engine wear benefits that equal or outweigh the slightly higher cost of the biodiesel blend.”

Final conclusions and assessments concerning mileage and fuel efficiency will not be available until the 2 million mile mark has been reach.

See the Source:
2 Million Mile Haul

Find out:
How diesel particulate filters work to decrease particulate pollution from diesel and biodiesel fuels.

diesel emissions

The Facts on School Buses and Diesel Emissions

• 24 million children are exposed to diesel fumes each day as they ride the bus to school
  
  
• Diesel exhaust includes fine particulate matter, carbon monoxide, sulfur dioxide, carbon monoxide and hydrocarbons
  
  
• Diesel emissions are classified by the EPA as “likely carcinogen”
  
  
• 70 percent of cancer risk from air pollution is attributed to diesel emissions
  
  
• Children are more affected by diesel exhaust than adults
  
  
• There are approximately 390,000 diesel school buses on the road every day in the USA
  
  
• Children are affect more by diesel exhaust when sitting at the rear of the bus where diesel emissions accumulate
  
  
• Retrofitting older buses with emissions control technology can cut emissions by 85%
  

See the Source:
EPA Clean School Bus USA
Northeast Diesel Collaborative
National Resources Defense Council

Find out:
How to decrease diesel emissions using diesel particulate filters and diesel oxidation converters.

diesel pollution
particulate matter

Earth Day: What Can You Do to Reduce Air Pollution?

In celebration of Earth Day, here’s our list of recommendations for reducing emissions and improving air quality. Take a stand - make a difference!

- Support regional clean air regulations by contacting your state and local representatives, urging them to pass strong air quality standards.

- Switch to compact fluorescent light bulbs to reduce energy consumption, and lessen the impact of energy produced by burning fossil fuels.

- Use ultra-low sulfur diesel fuel in all diesel engines to reduce emissions of sulfur oxides.

- Urge your local city government to retrofit public transportation with emissions control technology.

- Purchase renewable wind or solar energy blocks from your utilities provider.

- Find out if your local schools and colleges have diesel emergency generators. If so, urge them to be retrofitted with diesel particulate filters. This will substantially reduce diesel emissions of particulate matter, carbon monoxide and hydrocarbons.

- Educate yourself! There are many websites and blogs (just like ours) that publish daily environmental information. Take advantage of the news offered and become an informed, activist against air pollution.

See the Source:
EPA – Earth Day
CleanAIR Systems

The Clean Diesel Technology Tour

The Clean Diesel Technology Tour, the largest gathering ever of clean diesel executives, vehicles and technologies, takes place today at the Sacramento Convention Center, spotlighting diesel’s role in meeting California challenges regarding clean air standards, climate change and fuel efficiency. Sponsored by the Diesel Technology Forum (DTF), the tour offers industry, government officials and representatives from the environmental community the opportunity to interact and exchange ideas while reviewing the impressive improvements of modern diesel technologies.

During the tour, results of a recent survey commissioned by the DTF will be released, showing current California residents’ attitudes toward the impacts of their personal vehicle choices on climate change, and their perceptions of the diesel industry’s environmental progress over the past two decades.

Tour topics include discussing the importance of clean diesel technology to California today and its future potential; environmental challenges at the ports and in goods movement; the state’s low-carbon fuel initiative; and Governor Schwartzenegger’s views regarding climate change issues that industries need to address.

Executives from the diesel industry will discuss plans for the introduction of new clean diesel vehicles, engines and related technology in the near future.

The event will feature an opportunity to see and drive some of the cleanest, most fuel-efficient clean diesel vehicles made, including several brought from Europe to demonstrate the state-of-art in light-duty diesel technology. There will also be displays of 2007 emissions-compliant Class 8 trucks, Tier III off-road equipment and a wide array of emissions-control technologies that are making new and older diesels the cleanest ever, and ready for use in California’s strict regulatory environment.

In light-duty cars, trucks and SUVs, diesel yields up to 40 percent more miles per gallon than unleaded gasoline, an important benefit with the challenge of today’s high fuel prices. Diesel became even more attractive with rollout of ultra-low sulfur diesel (ULSD) fuel in California last September and nationwide last October. The sulfur content of this new, clean diesel is 15 parts per million, down previously from 150 parts per million in California, reducing emissions from diesels and enabling a new generation of clean engines for the entire spectrum of diesel-powered equipment. These new engines are up to 90 percent cleaner than the previous generation of diesel engines. Cars and SUVs expressly designed to burn clean diesel, which will make them as clean as gasoline-powered engines, are expected to be introduced in California starting in 2008.

About the Diesel Technology Forum
The Diesel Technology Forum (DTF) is an association of companies that manufacture diesel engines, components, fuel, and emissions control systems. The DTF brings together the diesel industry, the broad diesel user community, civic and public interest leaders, government regulators, academics, scientists, the petroleum industry and public health researchers to encourage the exchange of information, ideas, scientific findings and points-of-view about current and future uses of diesel power technology.

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Diesel Technology Forum

Ports Put Forth Plan to Slash Air Pollution

The Los Angeles Times reported on Saturday that the ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach have proposed an “unprecedented” plan to cut air pollution from diesel emissions by 80 percent within five year. According to the plan 16,000 trucks that move goods within the complex would be either scrapped or retrofitted with emissions control technology beginning in 2008, costing an estimated $1.8 billion.

Melissa Lin Perella of the Natural Resource Defense Council says “It’s a huge, huge step forward in our quest for clean air.”

The decision is part of a joint clean-air action plan with the goal of reducing toxic emissions by 45% in five years from all port engines, including ships, trains and trucks. Over 40% all imports to the U.S. are moved through the ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach.

The final version of the plan is expected to be voted on sometime in July.

See the Source:
LATimes.com

Find out:
How trucks can be retrofit with diesel particulate filters to cut diesel emissions

Corning Filters on Hyundai-Kia Clean Diesel Cars

Corning Incorporated announced today that Hyundai . Kia Motors is equipping select European-market diesel passenger cars with Corning DuraTrap® AT filters. Corning began serial production of AT filters for Hyundai . Kia Motors at the end of 2006. This agreement represents additional high-volume production for the advanced diesel particulate filter that Corning introduced in 2005.

Hyundai . Kia Motors will first integrate the Corning DuraTrap AT filter into the Kia Cee’d diesel passenger car, which has a 1.6 liter advanced diesel engine. Hyundai . Kia Motors will soon integrate the DuraTrap AT filter into other diesel passenger car models. The Kia Cee’d will be produced and available to consumers in late 2007.

“We are pleased that Hyundai . Kia Motors has chosen our DuraTrap AT filters for their latest model diesel passenger cars,” said Thomas R. Hinman, senior vice president and general manager of Diesel Technologies. “By leveraging our expertise in materials, processes and manufacturing, we are able to offer advanced emissions control solutions for every platform. DuraTrap AT filters continue in active development and testing, and we expect additional customers for these advanced diesel particulate filters.”

The Corning DuraTrap AT filter uses an advanced aluminum titanate composition to deliver excellent thermal shock resistance and filtration under demanding conditions. This filter also uses a monolithic (single unit) structure that contributes to the durability of the filter. Corning is producing the filters at its manufacturing facility in Erwin, N.Y.

Corning is a leading supplier of advanced cellular ceramic substrates and diesel particulate filters for all of the world's major manufacturers of gasoline and diesel engines and vehicles. The company invented an economical, high-performance cellular ceramic substrate in the early 1970s that is now the standard for catalytic converters worldwide. In 1978, Corning developed the cellular ceramic particulate filter to remove soot from diesel emissions.

See the Source:
Corning

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How Corning filters are used at CleanAIR Systems

The Dirt on Diesels

Cleaning up dirty diesels isn’t easy, but there are technologies available and new ones in the works which will reduce ozone-forming air pollution emitted from diesel engines in the form of nitrogen oxides (NOx). Because diesel cars and trucks are actually 30% more fuel efficient than vehicles fueled by gasoline, thereby burning less fuel, they can actually be better for the environment if their emissions are cleaned up using diesel particulate filters (to reduce particulate matter) and selective catalytic reduction (SCR).

In an effort to bring more innovative, fuel efficient clean diesel vehicles to the American marketplace, the EPA has issued a set of guidelines on emission certification procedures for on-road diesels that use SCR technology.

SCR reduces NOx in emissions by using a specially coated catalyst with a “reducing agent” such as ammonia or urea to turn NOx into harmless nitrogen and water.

According to the EPA, manufacturers of SCR technology will need to gain approval according to the guidelines in order to receive verification from the EPA. The technologies must take into account driver warning systems and inducement, system durability and reliability, and reducing agent quality and availability.

See the Source:
EPA – March 27, 2007

Find out:
More about low-temp selective catalytic reduction (SCR) technology from CleanAIR Systems

Cut Air Pollution … Or Else!

The EPA has finalized rules instructing 39 areas in 20 states to drastically reduce air pollution levels of fine particulate matter by 2010. The source of most particulate pollution is power plants, cars, trucks and heavy equipment. The EPA requirements include the use of ultra-low sulfur diesel fuel, the introduction of clean diesel trucks and buses, the Clean Air Nonroad Diesel Rule to reduce emissions produced by off-road diesel vehicles, and the Clean Air Interstate Rule to reduce particulate matter (PM) from power plant emissions.

Under the Clean Air Act, states must have a plan in place by April of 2008, and designated areas must reduce fine particles to 1997 air quality levels by 2010. Approximately 88 million people in urban areas live with high levels air pollution containing fine particles, which have been linked to heart and lung disease, as well as premature death.

But Clean air advocate, Frank O’Donnell of Clean Air Watch believes that the finalized rules are a “flagrant gift to the electric power industry” because power plants can comply to regulations by purchasing credits through the “cap-and-trade” program and not physically reduce their emissions.

It is estimated that power plants already need to invest $50 billion to install new technology to bring emissions into compliance with the air quality standards for reduction of sulfur dioxide (SOx) and nitrogen oxides (NOx).

Another contingency is that counties with the highest levels of fine particulate matter could receive a five year extension, delaying their attainment until 2015.

See the Source:
EPA

Find out:
How diesel particulate matter impacts health and the environment

Cummins Announces Approval of B20 Biodiesel Blends

LOUISVILLE, Ky.--March 21, 2007--Cummins Inc. today announced the approval of biodiesel B20 blends for use in its 2002 and later emissions-compliant ISX, ISM, ISL, ISC and ISB engines. This includes the recently released 2007 products.

Cummins is able to upgrade its previous position on the use of biodiesel fuel, which limited the use to B5 blends only, up to B20 for three key reasons. First, the American Society of Testing Materials specification ASTM D6751 now includes an important stability specification for B100 biodiesel. Second, the availability of quality fuels from BQ-9000 Certified Marketers and Accredited Producers is growing rapidly; and third, Cummins has completed the necessary testing and evaluations to ensure that customers can reliably operate their equipment with confidence using B20 fuel.

“We have completed exhaustive analysis and test evaluations which enable Cummins to provide the necessary guidance and information to our customers for the proper and successful use of this fuel in our engine,” said Edward Lyford-Pike, Chief Engineer – Advanced Alternative Fuel Programs. “This will enable our customers to have a choice that includes renewable fuel.”

The popularity and use of biodiesel fuel continues to climb. Recent studies predict that, by 2008, 1.2 billion gallons of B100 biodiesel will be produced in the United States. Cummins will continue its efforts to ensure that future products will be compatible with biodiesel fuels, and will continue to participate in industry efforts aimed at the development of consistent quality throughout the biodiesel industry.

Further information about the use of biodiesel for both on-highway and off-highway Cummins products can be found on the Web at everytime.cummins.com.

Cummins Inc., a global power leader, is a corporation of complementary business units that design, manufacture, distribute and service engines and related technologies, including fuel systems, controls, air handling, filtration, emission solutions and electrical power generation systems. Headquartered in Columbus, Indiana (USA), Cummins serves customers in more than 160 countries through its network of 550 company-owned and independent distributor facilities and more than 5,000 dealer locations. Cummins reported net income of $715 million on sales of $11.4 billion in 2006.

See the Source:
Cummins, Inc.

Find out:
About diesel particulate filters from CleanAIR Systems that reduce biodiesel emissions

TV Truck Designers Partner With EPA to Help Truckers Save Money, Reduce Emissions

Keep on Truckin' While Cutting Fuel Costs, Protecting Environment

Washington, D.C. -- March 20, 2007 -- EPA's SmartWay Transport Partnership and the "Chrome Shop Mafia" have teamed up to help truck drivers save on fuel costs and cut air pollution. The Mafia, a nationally recognized crew of truck designers and custom fabricators, restore and upgrade older big rigs on Country Music Television's "Trick My Truck" show.

"Partnering with this well-known group helps EPA reach out to truckers, assisting them with understanding the financial and environmental advantages of our SmartWay program," said Bill Wehrum, EPA's acting assistant administrator for Air and Radiation.

SmartWay's kits are combinations of EPA-endorsed fuel- and emissions-savings technologies that can improve truck fuel efficiency up to 15 percent, saving more than $8,000 in fuel costs annually. The environment also benefits: These products significantly decrease harmful diesel emissions and reduce exposure to contaminants that might adversely affect the health of drivers and the general public.

Both EPA's SmartWay program and 4 State Trucks, an equipment retail outlet and service center in Joplin, Mo., that serves as headquarters for the Mafia, will begin marketing SmartWay Upgrade Kits this Thursday through Saturday at the Mid-America Trucking Show at the Kentucky Exposition Center in Louisville. Next month, 4 State Trucks will begin selling and installing SmartWay Upgrade Kits will also showcase the products on its Web site. The kits cost between $8,500 and $25,000, depending on the technologies selected for installation. Individual components can be purchased and installed for as little as $800. Truckers may obtain financing from the U.S. Small Business Administration to pay for the upgrades.

The kit typically ends up saving truckers more money than it costs, even during a loan-repayment period. For example, an upgrade kit consisting of an auxiliary power unit, single-wide tires, and trailer aerodynamics could be purchased for about $16,500. With a five-year loan at 12 percent annual interest, the cost would be about $367 per month while producing an estimated $636 in monthly fuel savings. That represents a gain of $269 per month, or $16,140 over the five-year period.

The SmartWay Transport Partnership is an innovative program developed by EPA and freight-industry representatives to reduce greenhouse gases and air pollution, and to promote cleaner, more efficient ground freight transportation.

See the Source:
EPA Smartway upgrade kits and financing

Uncovering Diesel Pollution: Five Places Where Dangerous Diesel Particulates Hide

Santa Fe – March 22, 2007 – Are you being exposed to dangerous diesel particulate air pollution in your neighborhood without knowing it? When most people think of diesels, images of giant construction equipment or super semis belching clouds of black smoke come to mind. But did you know diesels can also be stationary engines and that they are a part of everyone’s life, residing right around the corner from you? With Earth Day 2007 soon approaching, CleanAIR Systems, Inc., a manufacturer of air pollution control systems, is informing the public on five places where dirty diesel particulates may be hiding in your community.

Recent reports by the Clean Air Task Force, Environmental Health Perspectives and The Coalition for Clean Air all detail the dangers of fine particulate matter (PM) pollution. The health impact of particulate air pollution ranges from asthma attacks and lung cancer to cardiac problems and decreased life expectancy. The World Health Organization estimates that thousands of deaths each year may be caused by exposure to PM. And the American Lung Association believes fine air-borne particulate represents our most serious health threat. Not only is particulate matter a global environmental hazard, but also a dangerous health problem.

“A substantial percentage of PM can be attributed to diesel engines, especially older ones that have not been retrofitted with the latest emissions control technology,” explains Michael Roach, CEO of CleanAIR Systems. “A very common type of diesel engine is the emergency generator used in backup situations to keep the power on. Due to their reliability, large facilities in every city of the United States depend on generators for standby power when the lights go off. Although they pollute, they are definitely a necessity.”

Do you know where diesel generators are installed in your community? In the United States alone, there are estimated to be over 100,000 industrial standby generators. Most are used on a limited basis by commercial and public facilities in case of an emergency. These generators are run periodically for routine testing and maintenance. But some facilities also use their generators as prime power to minimize peak power loads on the electrical grid. During operation diesel generators emit a variety of pollutants such as particulate matter, carbon monoxide, and hydrocarbons – all of which can cause serious health issues, especially for children and older adults.

Here are five places in your town where standby generators are commonly used:
Hospitals
According to the American Hospital Association, there are 5,756 registered hospitals in the United States. Considered “critical facilities”, hospitals must have standby power in order to provide essential, and in many cases life-saving medical care. The necessity of backup generators at hospitals was sadly illustrated during Hurricane Katrina, when many hospitals in the area lost all power and could not tend to those too ill to be evacuated because they had ignored previous warnings over the years to install generators and electrical switching equipment.

School and College Campuses
Most college campuses and many schools rely on generators in case the power goes out during a blackout, such as the one that disrupted large areas of the Midwest and Northeast United States during the summer of 2003. According to the report “Experience with Combined Heat and Power during the August 14, 2003 Northeast Blackout,” there were 19 schools and 26 college/universities located primarily in New York and New Jersey who switched over to their own backup generators for all or part of their power needs during this period.

Sporting Events and Concerts
Large arenas and event facilities can’t afford to loose power in the middle of a NASCAR race or rock concert. What would happen if 100,000 football fans were suddenly plunged into darkness! During Super Bowl XXXIX, 35 ultra-quiet generators were used as temporary power for the half-time show and to provide power for pre-and post-game festivities – the equivalent of enough electricity to power 20,000 homes.

Water Treatment Plants
Another “critical facility”, water treatment plants are at the very core of our infrastructure. Without backup power, water treatment plants are unable to pump clean water to residents in the event of a major catastrophe. The American Water Works Association policy statement is as follows:

Uninterrupted utility service is an operating goal of public water and wastewater utilities.

…when there is an electric power interruption, standby electric service facilities or capabilities should be provided. In general, two separate and independent sources of electric power should be provided to the works from either two separate substations or from a single substation and a works-based generator.

Data Storage Centers
What would we do without our telecommunication structure? With no internet, credit card and banking services, or electronic communication our modern culture comes to a screeching halt. All data storage centers consider emergency generators to be a crucial part of doing business. The president of Hypertect Inc., a data center builder, recommends data centers have two backup generators, or in other words – a backup for their backup.

The good news is that these giant generators of technology we have come to rely on for everyday convenience and essential backup power, can be cleaned up with readily available emissions controls technology. Diesel particulate matter is virtually eliminated when an emergency generator is retrofitted with diesel particulate filters, such as those designed and manufactured by CleanAIR Systems, thereby substantially reducing the impact on health and environment.

On this Earth Day 2007, make sure your community relies on emergency generators that use emissions controls for a cleaner, healthier environment.

Established in 1993, CleanAIR Systems, Inc. located in Santa Fe, NM, is a technology-based corporation manufacturing emissions control systems with worldwide distribution. Their products are designed to control air pollution for on- and off-road vehicles, as well as stationary machinery and power generation. CleanAIR – Committed to a Cleaner Environment. For more information, visit www.cleanairsys.com.

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Diesel particulate filters from CleanAIR Systems

First Batch of EPA Testing Shows Nonroad Diesel Equipment Meets Tough New Pollution Limits

EPA has finished the initial batch of emissions testing for construction, agricultural and industrial diesel-powered engines to confirm that results supplied by engine manufacturers are accurate. This milestone marks the start of a series of "confirmatory" emissions testing to ensure that these nonroad diesel engines meet the requirements of EPA's Clean Air Nonroad Diesel Fuel as early as 2008. EPA has conducted confirmatory testing on cars for decades.

All nonroad diesel engines tested at EPA's National Vehicle and Fuel Emissions Laboratory during the initial round met their expected emissions limits. The second round of emissions testing is scheduled to begin this spring.

Nonroad diesel engine testing is a part of EPA's commitment to ensuring that the tremendous public health benefits of the Clean Air Nonroad Diesel Rule are achieved. Finalized in 2004, this landmark rule will lead to an estimated 12,000 fewer premature deaths annually and hundreds of thousands fewer incidences of respiratory problems at full implementation.

See the Source:
General information about nonroad diesel equipment

Find out:
How non-road diesel engines can meet EPA requirements by using diesel particulate filters

Florida School District to Receive Nation's First Plug-In Hybrid School Buses

On Friday, March 9th the Nation’s first plug-in hybrid school buses will be delivered to the Braden River High School in Bradenton Florida. The buses were developed by IC Corporation, the nation’s largest school bus manufacturer.

With up to 40% more fuel efficiency, the nation's first hybrid school bus launch is the first step in helping schools manage high fuel prices and transportation costs. The hybrid school bus also reduces diesel engine emissions by up to 90% for cleaner air. Manatee School District is taking delivery of the first units. Ten other states will receive hybrid school buses later this year.

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IC Corporation

Light at the End of the Tunnel is Cleaner Air; EPA Cuts Diesel Locomotive and Vessel Pollution

EPA is proposing a new rule to ensure that Americans continue to breathe cleaner air by significantly reducing air pollution from locomotive and marine diesel engines. The Clean Air Locomotive and Marine Diesel Rule would set stringent emission standards and require the use of advanced technology to reduce emissions.

“By tackling the greatest remaining source of diesel emissions, we’re keeping our nation’s clean air progress moving full steam ahead,” said EPA Administrator Stephen L. Johnson. “Over the last century, diesels have been America’s economic workhorse, and through this rule, an economic workhorse is also becoming an environmental workhorse.”

When fully implemented, this landmark initiative would cut particulate matter emissions from these engines by 90 percent and nitrogen oxides emissions by 80 percent. This would result in annual health benefits of $12 billion in 2030 and reduce premature deaths, hospitalizations and respiratory illnesses across the United States. These benefits would continue to grow as older locomotive and marine engines are replaced. Overall benefits are estimated to outweigh costs by more than 20 to 1.

The Clean Air Locomotive and Marine Diesel Rule would tighten emission standards for existing locomotives when they are remanufactured. Additionally, the rule sets stringent emission standards for new locomotive and marine diesel engines and sets long-term regulations that require the use of advanced technology to reduce emissions.

Consistent with its other clean diesel successes, EPA worked collaboratively with diverse stakeholders, including engine and equipment manufacturers, technology companies, environmental groups and states. The proposal dramatically cuts emissions from all types of diesel locomotives, including line-haul, switch, and passenger rail, as well as from a wide range of marine sources, including ferries, tugboats, yachts and marine auxiliary engines. This includes small generator sets to large generators on ocean-going ships.

The locomotive remanufacturing proposal would take effect as soon as certified systems are available, as early as 2008, but no later than 2010. Standards for new locomotive and marine diesel engines would phase-in starting in 2009. Long-term standards would phase-in beginning in 2014 for marine diesel engines and 2015 for locomotives. The rule also explores a remanufacturing program for existing large marine diesel engines similar to the existing program for locomotives. Other provisions seek to reduce unnecessary locomotive idling.

The Clean Diesel Locomotive and Marine program is another major achievement in EPA's decade-long campaign to revolutionize diesel engines and the fuels they use – making diesel as much an environmental workhorse as an economic one. The proposal builds on both the Clean Air Nonroad Diesel Rule (announced May 11, 2004) and the Clean Diesel Truck and Bus Rule, (announced December 21, 2000).

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Clean Diesel Locomotive
Clean Diesel Marine

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How diesel emissions can be reduced and particulate matter cleaned up using diesel particulate filters

Diesel Fumes Pose Major Health Risk to Commuters

Washington, D.C. -- February 28, 2007 -- Diesel fumes pose a major health risk to commuters, according to a new report by the non-profit Clean Air Task Force.

The Boston-based environmental research group reported today that even though we spend only a tiny portion of our day commuting, it’s during the commute that we receive more than half our overall exposure to deadly fine particle pollution.

“Exposure to diesel exhaust during commutes poses a serious public health risk that needs to be addressed,” said George Thurston, Professor of Environmental Medicine at New York University’s School of Medicine, who wrote the foreword to the report.

Fine particle pollution, including diesel exhaust, can cause lung cancer, stroke, heart attack and infant death. It also triggers asthma attacks and makes people more likely to become allergic.

Some health researchers have estimated that such fine particles are responsible for shortening the lives of at least 70,000 Americans each year.

The Task Force specifically investigated diesel exhaust levels during commutes in New York NY, Boston MA, Austin TX and Columbus OH. The Task Force documented diesel particle levels four to eight times higher inside commuter cars, buses, and trains than in the ambient outdoor air in those cities. These are examples of likely results during a commute anywhere in the country where there is significant diesel traffic.

“Our investigation demonstrated that you may be exposed to high levels of diesel particles – four to eight times the levels in the outdoor air -- whether you commute by car, bus, ferry, train, or on foot,” said Bruce Hill, Senior Scientist with CATF.

By contrast, Hill noted, pollution levels were negligible for commuters in and near vehicles equipped with modern pollution controls or those that run on lower-polluting fuels such as natural gas.

“The problem is that there are 13 million diesel engines in service today, and virtually all are exempt from modern pollution controls,” said Conrad Schneider, Advocacy Director for the Task Force. “However, our study showed that simply replacing the muffler of trucks or buses with a diesel particle filter can reduce commuter exposure substantially,” he said. By EPA regulation, the Ultra-Low Sulfur Diesel (ULSD) fuel that is necessary to keep these diesel particle filters operating optimally became available nationwide late last year.

The Task Force called on federal and state agencies to increase funding to clean up highly polluting buses and other existing diesel engines. It urged the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency to require that long-haul trucks clean up when their engines are rebuilt. It also urged the EPA to move ahead with plans to set new pollution standards for diesel trains and diesel-powered boats, including commuter ferries.

The new report can be found online at www.catf.us/goto/noescape
For information about diesel risk in specific communities, go to: www.catf.us/projects/diesel/dieselhealth

Founded in 1996, the Clean Air Task Force (CATF) (www.catf.us) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to restoring clean air and healthy environments through scientific research, public education, and legal advocacy. CATF’s staff includes scientists, engineers, economists, MBAs and lawyers. The organization works closely with more than 40 state, local, regional and national groups to educate the public, media, industry and public decision makers on the science and economics of clean air policies through fact-based and locally appropriate advocacy.

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Clean Air Task Force

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About diesel particulate filters from CleanAIR Systems and how they can virtually eliminate particulate matter from exhaust when retrofitted on diesel engines.

Exploring the Effects of Diesel Exposure on School Children

Millions of children rely on school buses for transportation. According to Clarkson University researcher Peter Jaques, "Those who commute in non-retrofitted, diesel-operated buses can be exposed to potentially harmful agents emitted from the exhaust, including carbonaceous ultrafine particles and diesel particulate matter (DPM), which have been linked to increases in upper-respiratory illnesses."

Jaques, assistant professor of biology; Alan Rossner, assistant professor and director of Clarkson's Environmental Health Science Program; Andrea Ferro, assistant professor of civil and environmental engineering; and Stephanie Schuckers, associate professor of electrical and computer engineering, are working to characterize diesel exposure in school buses and develop methods for measuring lung function and cardiopulmonary effects in children. Their pilot study, led by Jaques, is being funded with a grant from the Collaborative Activities for Research and Technology Information (CARTI) of the Center of Excellence (CoE) at Syracuse University.

In one part of the study the team is measuring the distribution of DPM throughout three empty buses during different modes of operation and under various conditions. The researchers expect the concentration levels to vary depending on such circumstances as seat location, whether windows are open or closed and if the bus is idling or in motion.

Additionally, the team is measuring the heart rate and respiration of 20 different third- and fourth-grade students on school buses throughout the day. Each student wears a LifeShirt TM, an elastic shirt worn under clothing that measures heart and respiratory rates and breathes into respiratory monitors that indicate lung inflammation.

"This gives us data we can later organize and analyze computationally," Rossner said. "We evaluate respiratory inflammation by measuring nitric oxide from exhaled breath at specific intervals, including before and after bus rides. Students also wear personal exposure monitors the size of a small backpack throughout the day."

The goal of this study is to develop techniques and a sufficient exposure database to use later in a more extensive study. The researchers hope their work will improve understanding of diesel exposure-related effects in children. They also hope to strengthen knowledge of the risks associated with exposure to DPM in buses, especially for children with asthma.

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Clarkson University

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How to reduce diesel particulate matter using particulate filters