Heavy-duty diesel trucks and buses in New York will need to be retrofitted by the end of next year after new rules were approved in the state yesterday (17th June).

The Environmental Board introduced legislation which will require about 30,000 of the state-owned vehicles to add new particulate filters by 31st December 2010 at the latest.

According to the Associated Press, making use of the filters - which contain pgms as catalysts - can reduce harmful diesel emissions by between 25 and 85 per cent.

"Reducing these emissions is another step in the right direction to improve air quality in New York State and protect the health of our residents," said Enivronmental Board Chair Pete Grannis.

Particulate pollution from such heavy-duty diesel vehicles causes major irritation to the lungs, while some of its contaminants contribute to the creation of ozone at ground level.

The retrofits are set to cost between $4,000 and $8,000 per vehicle.

Sources:

NY diesel vehicles must cut emissions (17/06/09)

NYS Environmental Board Approves Diesel Retrofits for All Heavy-Duty State-Owned and Contractor Vehicles (17/06/09)

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