Big Diesel Engines Produce 90% Less Pollutants, Study Shows

Big diesel engines used in trucks and buses have never been famous for their environmentally friendly attitude, yet you probably don't realize just how much they have evolved from the old days when clouds of black, toxic smoke released by such vehicles engulfed passer-bys.

According to a new study carried out by the Coordinating Research Council via the Health Effects Institute, new diesel engines have 90% less pollutants than older powerplants. Apparently, the new units are even “friendlier” than the US Environmental Protection Agency Heavy-Duty On-Highway Diesel Emissions Rule of 2001 requires.

The study found “that emissions of fine particulate matter (PM) – a pollutant of significant public health concern – were approximately 99% lower than the PM emission levels allowed from 2004 technology heavy-duty diesel vehicles and engines and nearly 90% lower than even the new 2007 national emissions standards for heavy-duty diesel vehicles.”

Emissions of carbon monoxide, hydrocarbons, and a number of unregulated, so-called air toxics were also more than 90% lower than the 2004 levels and substantially below required levels.

In addition, emissions of nitrogen oxides, which can have direct effects and contribute to the formation of smog, were approximately 70% lower than in the past and 10% below required levels.

Perhaps even more importantly, after January 1, 2010, a further 80% reduction in emissions is expected.