EPA Diesel-Cancer Link Disputed

An independent panel of scientists charged with reviewing Environmental Protection Agency decisions rejected an agency report that said diesel emissions are “highly likely” to cause cancer at everyday levels.

The Clean Air Science Advisory Committee accepted the notion that diesel smoke is likely to cause cancer but said the evidence was lacking to say it is highly likely.

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The decision had both trucking and the EPA claiming victory. The decision also forces the agency to revise its report on the health effects of diesel emissions and resubmit it to the panel.

“It’s a good affirmation of what we have been saying all along — that the science is still not developed enough to make sound policy decisions,” said Allen Schaeffer, vice president of environmental and highway policy for American Trucking Associations.



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