More Control Wanted For Diesel Engines

A major environmental group wants the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency to control air pollution from stationary diesel engines.

The group Environmental Defense today told the agency that it plans to sue over its failure to establish nationwide emission standards for the engines. It also petitioned the EPA to add diesel exhaust to its list of hazardous air pollutants.

Stationary diesel engines are a growing health hazard in California. Environmental Defense says the state increasingly relies on diesel-powered backup generators during electricity shortages.

Scientific studies have found that exposure to diesel exhaust is a likely cause of cancer and other health problems. The EPA had no comment on the lawsuit, but said it views the negative health effects of diesel very seriously.