The West Coast Diesel Emissions Reductions Collaborative is working to reduce air pollution emissions from diesel sources along the West Coast. The West Coast, like other regions across the country, has high levels of ambient particulate matter. Diesel exhaust is a large contributor to these high levels. Exposure to particulate matter contributes to harmful respiratory and cardiovascular effects, and to premature mortality and contributes to climate change. In addition to its contribution to ambient PM, diesel exhaust is of specific concern because it has been judged to pose a lung cancer hazard for humans as well as a hazard from noncancer respiratory effects. Finally, diesel exhaust contributes to ozone problems in California, along with exhaust from gasoline vehicles and other emission sources.
Building on the stringent mandates in EPA’s on-road and non-road rules and the success of EPA’s Clean School Bus USA Initiative, California’s Carl Moyer Clean Engine Incentive Program , and other federal and state voluntary emissions reductions programs, the Collaborative will reduce diesel emissions from the existing fleet and improve public health and the environment.
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