California is currently facing several issues, including air pollution. But now, the state is changing its approach in its fight against air pollution.
It is doing this by introducing a new law. One that will save residents over $32 billion in estimated medical bills. The California Air Resources Board (CARB) works hard to get pollution levels under control and maintain better air quality in the state.
Trains are generally better for the environment as a mode of transportation. Especially when compared to cars or trucks.
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However, that does not mean they are flawless. The organization recently introduced a new regulation called the In-Use Locomotive Regulation.
The regulation will require train companies to pay fees based on the amount of polluting gasses they release in the state. The funds will be useful in building more environmentally friendly technologies.
Additionally, there will be a time limit on how long locomotives can idle and regulations aimed at having companies create zero-emission trains by 2030. CARB is also offering benefits in the form of funding programs. Those who will enjoy this are companies looking to transition to zero-emission trains early or surpass the guidelines.
“We are moving toward a future where all transportation operations in the state will be zero emissions,” Liane Randolph, the chair of CARB, said in a press statement.
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According to reports, the diesel fuel locomotives use releases over 640 tons of “tiny pollutants” per year. These account for 70% of the cancer risks that California residents have to live with.
The decrease in these pollutants will be a huge step forward for California residents and the state’s healthcare system. CARB reports that the decrease in harmful gasses from trains will prevent up to 1,500 emergency room visits and 3,200 premature deaths. It will also save billions in healthcare costs.
Reducing these harmful gasses will also slow down rising global temperatures. Global warming causes more intense storms and extreme heat, among other problems. However, despite all the good it seems it can do, the new regulation is attracting mixed support.
According to reports, the American Short Line and Regional Railroad Association are voicing concerns. They say that the “spirit” behind the regulation matches their environmental goals. However, the execution was “simply not feasible” for short-line railroads because of a lack of funding.
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They also cited how freight trains handle “roughly 1.6 billion tons of goods nationwide across nearly 140,000 miles … much cleaner than if those goods were trucked.” Those in support include the container Port of Long Beach. The organization says that it “embraces” the regulation, stating that “CARB’s actions will certainly bolster our efforts and bring healthier air to all Californians.”
One Californian, Jan Victor Andasan, an activist with East Yard Communities for Environmental Justice, said areas like West Long Beach are “surrounded by pollution” and that regulating trains is a good move.
“We support rail, but we support rail if they’re doing all their best to mitigate their emissions,” Andasan said.
Yasmine Agelidis, an Earthjustice attorney, is also in support of the regulation. She referred to the new law as “a nation-lead standard” with “the power to change the course of history.”
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