Oregon DEQ: Diesel

Living Diesel video
Informative and entertaining documentary on diesel, causes and solutions; filmed in Portland, Oregon by Savannah Teller-Brown. About 18 minutes
Truck Efficiency/Reduced Idling Study Group

Diesel - Why it's a problem

Diesel is the dominant fuel used by the commercial transportation sector. Diesel engines offer fuel economy, power and durability. In the United States approximately 94% of all freight is moved by diesel engines. Diesel engines also power most non-road equipment as used in the construction, agricultural, marine and locomotive sectors.

While the operational advantages of diesel are clear, diesel engines emit large amounts of nitrogen oxides and particulate matter, and toxic air pollutants. Diesel exhaust contains dozens of toxic substances but one of the leading concerns is the particulate matter which is toxic and very small in size (< 2.5 microns - a typical human hair is 70 microns). The small size makes it highly breathable to the deepest part of the lungs. These ultra-fine particles are also known to attract other toxic substances in the air increasing its toxicity.

Increasing studies link diesel particulate matter to serious public health impacts from aggravating asthma to heart and lung problems to cancer and premature mortality. Diesel exhaust also has environmental significance as a global warming contributor. It also adds to visibility impairment and regional haze. Oregonians have an increased risk for these and other health effects at present levels of exposure in everyday life-around 13 times above public health benchmarks. Federal regulations and cleaner fuels are addressing diesel exhaust over time, but existing diesel engines will continue to pollute for another 30 years before they are removed from service. particulate graphic

Oregon Clean Diesel Initiative

To address the concerns of diesel pollution, DEQ formed the Oregon Clean Diesel Initiative, a progressive, non-regulatory approach focused on accelerating the benefits of a clean diesel strategy, including financial assistance (tax credits). Most recently, the Fleet Forward program has been developed, giving fleets well deserved recognition for taking steps to voluntarily reduce their diesel exhaust.

Fact Sheet: Burn Cleaner Fuel PDF

Please see the left navigation bar at the top of this page for more Clean Diesel program links.

Contact information:

Oregon Clean Diesel Initiative (includes technical assistance). Contact Kevin Downing at 503-229-6549
Financial Incentives: Shelley Matthews at 503-229-6457
Fleet Forward program: Kathleen Cochrun at 503-229-6833.

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