For Immediate Release
December 20, 2022
Contact:
Program Manager, Climate & Clean Energy Advocacy
Alliance of Nurses for Healthy Environments
(732) 336-1606
EPA’s Heavy Duty Trucks Rule- The Beginning of Protecting Public Health
from Harmful Vehicle Emissions
Washington, D.C.- Today the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) released the final rule to reduce harmful Nitrogen Oxide (NOx) emissions from heavy-duty vehicles. In response to the final rule, Alliance of Nurses for Healthy Environments Executive Director Katie Huffling said:
“EPA’s final rule is an overdue step to curb NOx pollution from freight trucks and other large vehicles. Although trucks make up less than 10 percent of vehicles on the road, they contribute to the majority of hazardous air pollutants that formulate deadly particulate matter and ground level ozone or smog. Pollutants like NOx are linked to a host of respiratory and cardiovascular health complications and communities situated closest to high traffic routes experience the highest health risks.
“Nurses are urging EPA to accelerate momentum from today’s rule and follow through on their commitment to propose the next round of emissions standards for heavy-duty vehicles early next year. Stronger standards are essential for the necessary reduction of health harming pollutants and greenhouse gas emissions from trucks and will drive a nationwide transition to zero-emission vehicles that will also improve air quality.”
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About The Alliance of Nurses for Healthy Environments
The Alliance of Nurses for Healthy Environments is the only national nursing organization focused solely on the intersection of health and the environment. The mission of the Alliance is to promote healthy people and healthy environments by educating and leading the nursing profession, advancing research, incorporating evidence-based practice, and influencing policy.
