OVERVIEW
Compared to gasoline engines, diesel engines tend to be lower emitters of some pollution like carbon monoxide and hydrocarbons. Nonetheless, they are high emitters of nitrogen oxides and ultrafine particulate matter. Ultrafine particulate matter is associated with lung cancer, asthma and heart disease and leads to an increased risk for Alzheimers and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) commonly known as Lou Gehrig’s disease. Many of these health and welfare effects have an economic cost, amounting to several hundred billion dollars a year nationally.
The Solution in Oregon
In the most recent analysis published by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, more than 90 percent of Oregonians live where diesel particulate represents an increased risk. The latest model diesel engines emit less than 10 percent of these harmful pollutants compared to older engines. These new diesel engines1, as well as those powered by alternative fuels like propane, natural gas and electricity, are the engines by which fleet and equipment owners can meet their business goals without creating undue harm to their workers, fellow Oregonians and the environment.
Several governments in the Portland metropolitan area have adopted Clean Air Construction Standards. These Standards require equipment used on construction projects funded by the City of Portland, Multnomah County, Metro, Port of Portland, and Washington County to reduce emissions from older diesel engines. The requirements are phased-in over time. For specifics, visit the Clean Air Construction website at www.portlandoregon.gov/cac
Because these requirements phase in, the time to begin planning is now. Don’t get caught short or confused. Skookum Environmental Advisors is prepared to help you get started with a plan for compliance.
1 engines certified as 2007 and newer used in medium- and heavy-duty trucks and buses as well as engines certified as Tier 4 for non-road equipment which, depending upon the horsepower classification are manufactured in and after 2013 to 2015.