Diesel vehicles are important for our economy, but they also have an impact on air quality and health.

What is Diesel Exhaust?

Diesel exhaust is produced when an engine burns diesel fuel. Exhaust contains fine particles, or soot, as well as smog forming elements that pollute our air. Approximately 40 different chemicals are found in diesel exhaust including 15 known carcinogens.

What are the Health Impacts?

• Respiratory ailments including infection, lung inflammation and asthma
• Repeated exposure is linked to chronic illnesses such and emphysema and bronchitis
• Aggravation of cardiovascular and respiratory disease
• Irritation of the eyes, nose and throat

Who is Most At-Risk?

• Children have growing lungs and a faster breathing rate than adults making them more susceptible to the effects of diesel exhaust
• People with existing heart, lung or upper respiratory conditions can also be impacted.
• The elderly are also more susceptible, particularly if immune systems are weak

Air Quality Resources

What is the Clean Air Act?
What are the Six Common Air Pollutants?
How is Air Quality Measured?
What Are the Health Effects of Diesel Exhaust?

Reports & Research

Clean Air Task Force
Diesel and Health in America: The Lingering Threat
http://www.catf.us/resources/publications/view/83

Clean Air Task Force
Diesel Soot Health Impacts
http://www.catf.us/diesel/dieselhealth/

Environment and Human Health, Inc.
Harmful Effects of Diesel Exhaust: A Case for Policy Change
http://www.ehhi.org/reports/exhaust/exhaust06.pdf

U.S. Environmental Protection Agency – Region V
Midwest Clean Diesel Initiative
Air Quality Issues - http://www.epa.gov/midwestcleandiesel/concerns.html#airquality