Diesel pollution from the world's largest ships is increasing in US ports and coastal areas prompting calls for the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to take action.

Members of Congress and local regulators want the shipping industry to be tackled although the EPA is keen to push regulatory standards through the UN International Maritime Organisation before introducing its own regulations next week.

But legislation going through Congress would require the EPA to act on its own to keep the industry in check.

Speaking to the Associated Press, Barry Wallerstein, Executive Officer of the South Coast Air Quality Management District, said: "The legislation is needed because marine vessels are the largest uncontrolled source of air pollution in many areas of the country."

Pollution reduction rules are being considered for locomotives and smaller ships according to Richard Kassel, Senior Attorney for the Natural Resources Defence Council.

According to AP massive ship engines burn diesel that is 1,800 times dirtier than the US norm for trucks.

The EPA said that they want hazardous diesel emissions to be cut through the proposals.

Source:

EPA Pressured to Cut Ship Pollution, 15/02/08
http://ap.google.com/article/ALeqM5h4HLoLlOA5hTROjk8zRlsQjus_NwD8UPVON00

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