EPA Responds to Petitions to Address Harmful Emissions from Locomotives
November 9, 2022
Contact Information
EPA Press Office (press@epa.gov)
WASHINGTON — Today, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced it is responding to petitions from the California Air Resources Board, the San Joaquin Valley Air Pollution Control District, and the California Air Pollution Control Officers Association to address harmful nitrogen oxide (NOx) and particulate matter (PM) emissions from locomotives. As part of EPA’s response to these petitions, the Agency is taking immediate steps to develop options and recommendations to address pollution from new locomotives as well as those already operating in communities nationwide.
“Locomotives remain a significant source of emissions, offen disproportionately impacting the health of communities that are located near railyards and ports,” said Joseph Goffman, Principal Deputy Assistant Administrator for EPA’s Office of Air and Radiation. “EPA’s response reflects a commitment to deliver significant and needed public health benefits for underserved communities across the country that are overburdened by higher levels of diesel exhaust.”
“I’m proud to help lead the charge in California to defend our nationally leading clean air protections and reduce vehicle emissions,” Senator Alex Padilla said. “But EPA must also do their part by regulating emissions from locomotives nationwide. That’s why I’m grateful to EPA for heeding my calls and those from California’s air pollution agencies. Workers and neighborhoods near ports and industrial rail yards have been subject to increased air pollution from locomotives for decades, facing higher instances of respiratory illnesses and premature death. Thanks to the passage of the Inflation Reduction Act, the time to make a generational
