Comment Log Display

Dear members of the California Air Resources Board,

I am writing to urge you to approve the proposed rule to
strengthen state air standards and reduce air pollution from
construction equipment, In-Use Off-Road Diesel Vehicles.  These
vehicles are a major source of air pollution, accounting for 20%
of particulate matter (soot) and 16% of smog-forming Nitrogen
Oxides (NOx). These pollutants are two of the biggest pollution
hazards for public health in California and throughout the
country.  The health impacts of exposure to smog and particulate
air pollution or soot result in tens of thousands of premature
deaths in the U.S. from heart and lung disease annually, as well
as hospital admissions, emergency room visits, absences from
school or work, and restricted activities related to asthma
attacks. Children are especially vulnerable because their lungs
are still developing.

This new rule will:

-- Prevent 4,000 premature deaths;

-- Result in health benefits and reduced health care and hospital
visits of $18 to $26 billion;

-- Help bring the most polluted areas of the state, the Los
Angeles/Long Beach air basin and the San Joaquin Valley, into
attainment with federal air quality standards; and

-- By 2020, prevent 48 tons per day of NOx and 5 tons per day of
particulate air pollution from entering our air.

Thank you for taking ground-breaking action and supporting
stronger air standards for California's construction equipment.

Sincerely,

Peter Klosterman, Ph.D.
779 Kingston Ave.
Piedmont, CA 94611-4442