For Immediate Release
December 20, 2022
Maryland LCV Statement on EPA’s New Heavy-Duty Vehicle Rule
Annapolis MD – Today, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) released the final rule to reduce harmful Nitrogen Oxide (NOx) emissions from heavy-duty vehicles. Although trucks make up less than 10 percent of vehicles on the road, they release the majority of hazardous air pollutants, including 63% of NOx pollution.
In response, Maryland LCV released the following statement from Maryland LCV Executive Director, Kim Coble:
“Heavy-duty vehicles spew dangerous nitrogen oxides and other pollution into our air, harming respiratory health, especially in marginalized communities located near freight routes. This issue is particularly crucial in Maryland, where roughly 325,000 people live near a highway, which is among the highest in the nation and where we face the nation’s second worst air quality.
In fact, while medium- and heavy-duty trucks and buses make up only 9% of Maryland’s 4.2 million registered vehicles, they contribute 39% of nitrogen oxide (NOx), 48% of fine particulate matter, and 21% of global warming emissions from all on-road vehicles in the state. There is proven technology to cut NOx pollution by 90%. Trucking companies should not be allowed to spread harmful pollution when there are reasonable alternatives available.
The new EPA rule is a step forward to protect our children, those on the frontline of pollution, and every single person who wants to breathe cleaner air and live in a healthier community. But more needs to be done. We look forward to further action next year from the EPA to continue to make progress. Maryland LCV is also committed to seeing air pollution levels addressed in Maryland to advance health and equity and urge our state legislators and incoming administration to make this a priority.”
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