From the
Better World Club:
In recent years, the US EPA has been steadily ratcheting up emissions standards for diesel fuel and automobile engines. The EPA is currently working on a proposal to cut smog and soot emissions from diesel locomotive engines. Unfortunately, General Electric, by far the largest locomotive producer in the country, is fighting the proposed standards.
The debate centers on the maximum acceptable level of smog-causing nitrogen oxide emissions. The EPA wants a limit of 1.3g per horsepower per hour's operation. GE is pushing for a limit of 1.9g.
In addition to causing smog, nitrogen oxides (NOx) are also believed to aggravate asthmatic conditions, create acid rain, and cause cancer.
Though it is the undisputed leader in the North American locomotive market, GE claims that complying with the EPA's proposed emissions standards would require 'significantly high-risk technology breakthroughs.' GE competitor Electro-Motive Diesel, Inc. doesn't seem to think that "breakthrough" technology will be needed. 'We're not making a big thing out of being green, but we're definitely intending to meet all of the [EPA] rules and requirements,' said Martha Lenz, director of engine design for the company.
GE's fight with the EPA is all the more unfortunate when compared to the company's recent efforts to "green" its image. GE launched its "ecomagination" in 2005, producing green products like wind turbines, compact fluorescent light bulbs, and fuel-efficient jet engines.