Sander Kushen, sander.kushen@sierraclub.org
OAKLAND, Calif. — On Wednesday, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) approved a new rule empowering California to pass more aggressive regulations to curb toxic pollutants from locomotives.
The EPA’s rule removes a categorical block that had barred states from regulating emissions from locomotives already in operation. California can now seek EPA approval to enact regulations curtailing exhaust from trains, trucks and other diesel-powered locomotives.
"This common-sense update will allow California to stay a leader in protecting people from the harmful health impacts of diesel pollution," said Katherine Garcia, Clean Transportation for All Campaign Director with the Sierra Club. "We thank the EPA for righting a wrong and taking this crucial step toward protecting vulnerable communities near rail lines."
The Sierra Club and local partners met with EPA officials in August and submitted dozens of comments supporting stronger standards for locomotives over the last year alongside environmental justice groups. The group now plans to step up their advocacy in Southern California for a Railyard Rule at the South Coast Air Quality Management District in light of the revised standard.
Diesel-powered locomotives are one of the largest sources of pollution in California. They emit particulate matter, fine particulate matter, nitrogen oxides and greenhouse gasses. In addition to contributing to climate change, studies show diesel exhaust can lead to cancer, asthma, lung and heart disease and premature deaths. The neighborhoods near seaports, railyards and other transit areas bear an outsized health burden because of their proximity to the harmful pollution.
"For too long, densely industrialized regions near rail lines have suffered from unchecked diesel emissions, negatively impacting entire communities," said Yassi Kavezade Field Organizer with the Sierra Club. "This new rule is a necessary tool for us to start organizing for policies that limit our exposure to harmful pollution from existing diesel infrastructure."
The new rule marks a major victory for environmental justice advocates looking to clean up their communities.
"This rule is only the beginning," Kavezade said. "We look forward to stepping up our statewide efforts in California to pass the strongest protections in the nation for clean air and public health."
About the Sierra Club
The Sierra Club is America’s largest and most influential grassroots environmental organization, with millions of members and supporters. In addition to protecting every person's right to get outdoors and access the healing power of nature, the Sierra Club works to promote clean energy, safeguard the health of our communities, protect wildlife, and preserve our remaining wild places through grassroots activism, public education, lobbying, and legal action. For more information, visit www.sierraclub.org.