Diesel

When it comes to diesel emissions and children’s health…
Does your school get an “A” for action?

  • Diesel emissions can cause cancer and respiratory problems, and are linked to other health effects. Children are more vulnerable to harm.
  • Diesel-powered buses can be an important source of exposure for children.
  • Cleaner bus technologies and a range of low-cost options can reduce exposures for students, staff and communities.

Let’s take action on diesel emissions to ensure healthier air for our kids.

Learn about 4 Actions to reduce children’s exposure to diesel emissions.

Learn more about the health effects of diesel emissions and actions to protect children:

Diesel emissions are harmful to health

Diesel emissions are a known cause of lung cancer and are linked to asthma and other health problems. Children can be more vulnerable to harm from diesel emissions.

Where kids encounter diesel emissions

Children can be exposed to diesel emissions on buses, in loading zones and adjacent playgrounds, and by breathing contaminated indoor air.

Action to protect children from diesel emissions

There are many ways to protect kids from diesel emissions, from establishing no-idling zones to replacing older buses. Parents, educators, administrators and governments all have roles to play.

4 Actions to reduce children's exposure to diesel emissions:

1. STOP IDLING

Turn the engines off while school buses are waiting in loading zones or near school grounds.

2. AVOID BUS 'CARAVANNING'

Ensure there is a gap between buses during travel and in loading zones to keep the exhaust of one bus from polluting the cabin air of another.

3. CHANGE THE TIMING OF SCHOOL VENTILATION

Help reduce the infiltration of diesel bus and other vehicle emissions into schools by ensuring that high ventilation periods do not occur during busy loading/unloading times or rush hour.

4. UPGRADE AND REPLACE OLD BUSES

Emissions from older buses can be improved with pollution control upgrades, and new technology diesel engines offer vastly improved emissions performance. Best of all, replace old diesel vehicles with new buses powered by cleaner energy such as electricity.

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