While current state and federal measures are on target to reduce toxic diesel locomotive emissions 65 percent or more by 2020, additional measures recommended by ARB staff would ultimately provide up to 85 percent or greater emissions reductions within the rail yards over the same period, which translates to cleaner air for nearby residential neighborhoods as well.
"While we are pleased to have already reduced diesel emissions at the rail yards, it's not enough," said ARB Chairman Mary Nichols. "Increased leadership from U.S. EPA and the railroads, along with funding to address California's needs, would signal a clean-air commitment that must be made to protect those who live and work near rail yards."
... Implementation dates would be staggered to coincide with the development and commercial production of these advanced technologies. Once all steps are taken, Californians can expect to see a reduction of about 69 tons per day of NOx (a key ingredient of smog), and a reduction of about three tons per day of toxic diesel soot.
...Diesel exhaust contains a variety of harmful gases and over 40 other known cancer-causing substances. In 2000, the ARB established California's Diesel Risk Reduction Plan, which aims to reduce diesel emissions to 85 percent below 2000 levels by 2020. Other sources of diesel particulate matter such as big rig trucks, transit buses, trash trucks, cargo-handling equipment and ship auxiliary engines have already been addressed through regulations, along with diesel fuel.
NOx helps create ground-level ozone, or smog. Smog can damage lungs, cause coughing and chest tightness, and worsen asthma symptoms while also affecting crop yields. Both pollutants are particularly harmful to children, the elderly and those who have preexisting health problems.
Please read full at The Air Resources Board