What is the health impact of higher sulfur diesel on Alaskans living in rural communities?
Many scientific studies show significant health impact with adequate exposure to diesel exhaust. This is of great concern to people living in dense, highly trafficked, urban areas. Indeed, the high probability of existing health impacts from heavy duty vehicle diesel emissions is the driving force behind the national rule. The national rule only applies to heavy duty trucks and buses. However, trucks and buses are rarely the primary source of diesel exposure in rural Alaska. The biggest source for exposure may be power generation. The method of power generation in rural Alaska is unique, with most communities serviced by a central diesel generator rather than falling on a grid. The potential health impact of this situation has not been studied. To address this, ADEC is developing a study and seeking funds to determine health impacts of diesel air pollution in rural areas. Communities can use the results to help decide how to transition to ultra-low sulfur diesel fuel. The state may use
