Cracking Down for our Children
Emissions caused by diesel engines which are most commonly found in heavy-duty trucks, ships, locomotives, agricultural and construction equipment, create serious health problems not only for adults, but are also extremely harmful to children.
Children are more affected by toxic diesel emissions due to still developing respiratory systems and faster breathing rates. Exposure to diesel particulate matter has been shown to lead to an increased risk of premature deaths and high numbers of hospital admissions for heart and lung disease.
Diesel emissions have also been proven to amplify pre-existing respiratory symptoms such as asthma and long term exposure to these harmful emissions pose lung cancer hazards for children and adults alike.
As stated by the California Air Resources Board and American Lung Association, particulate matter from diesel emissions is responsible for 15,000 premature deaths every year. In addition to this, it has been proven that premature deaths linked to particulate matter from diesel emissions is now at a level with the number of deaths caused by traffic accidents and second-hand smoke in the state of California.
Not only do these toxic emissions lead to fatalities, but studies have also concluded that this particulate pollution can significantly reduce lung function growth in children due to the particulate matter becoming embedded in the deepest recesses of the lung tissue where it has been shown to disrupt cellular processes.
With the facts discovered by these studies, it has become increasingly more important to ensure that diesel fueled vehicles and equipment are properly retrofitted with emissions control technology.