The EPA will reportedly announce new rules today that would "all but eliminate" soot and smog-related emissions from diesel locomotive and ship engines. For the most modern locomotives, the proposed rules would cut nitrogen oxide by more than 75 percent, necessitating special catalytic converters. The new standards would kick in for existing locomotives as they were overhauled.
The rules would initially take effect by the end of this year, with a second phase starting in 2009. Owners of diesel-powered ships would need catalytic converters beginning in 2014.
At least one locomotive maker, diesel-engine makers, and catalyst manufacturers say the proposed rule is workable. But the largest U.S. locomotive maker, General Electric — taking a page from Detroit's naysaying playbook — reportedly told the EPA "the new rule is 'unlikely to be achieved' even with some scientific breakthroughs." And thus the foot-dragging begins.
[Source: The Wall Street Journal (subscription required)]
