Engine Manufacturers Support EPA Science Panel

7 December 1999

Engine Manufacturers Support EPA Science Panel Decision On Diesel Health Report

    CHICAGO--Dec. 7, 1999--The Engine Manufacturers Association (EMA) supports the Dec. 1 decision made by the Clean Air Science Advisory Committee (CASAC) to reject the latest version of the US Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) Diesel Health Assessment Document. As a result of the decision, EPA must revise the document to more accurately reflect scientific results before obtaining approval of the independent scientific review panel.
    EMA and other stakeholders, including members of the scientific community, had numerous concerns with the EPA draft report entitled, "Health Assessment Document for Diesel Emissions." "This is a major document on the health effects of diesel exhaust that will be used by EPA to justify future regulation," said Glenn Keller, EMA Executive Director. "It is in everyone's best interest to ensure the report adheres to the highest standards of scientific validity."
    The CASAC panel requested substantial revisions to correct errors, omissions and deficiencies in certain sections of the 600+ page draft and asked EPA to again submit the complete report to the panel for another full CASAC review. "The decision by CASAC is prudent given the continued scientific uncertainties associated with establishing the health risk from ambient exposure to diesel exhaust," said Keller. "The conclusions and characterization of health risks in the latest EPA draft were clearly not validated by current scientific evidence. EMA will continue to work with EPA and the scientific community to develop more comprehensive interpretations to address these health concerns."

    EMA is a trade association representing worldwide manufacturers of internal combustion engines for all applications except passenger cars and aircraft. EMA continues to work with government and industry stakeholders to help the nation achieve its goals of cleaner fuels, more efficient engines and cleaner air. For more information, contact Anne Rukavina at (312) 644-6610 x3393 or visit our Web site at www.engine-manufacturers.org