https://airqualitynews.com/2019/04/12/filtered-diesel-exhausts-may-worsen-allergies-study-finds/
Have a read of this article, and be prepared to be shocked like I was. In a nutshell, a research report published by the American Thoracic Society shows that people suffering from pre-existing respiratory conditions suffer more from exhaust fumes emitted from diesel vehicles fitted with Diesel Particulate Filters (DPF’s) than those without. I find this truly remarkable as DPF’s are mandatory for all diesel cars to ensure that the NOx (ie soot) emissions that come from diesels are caught and burned away.
Note that the report was indeed produced by an American society and, as we know, diesels aren’t nearly as common place as they are here in Europe. Also note that the report studies the impact of diesel exhausts on those people who already suffer from respiratory conditions. However, I’d be willing to bet that those people who are otherwise clear (of any respiratory issues) will likely show similar results.
It will be interesting to see if this report gains any significant traction. The more sinister side of me fears that this type of report could get buried by a large car manufacturer that remains reliant on diesel vehicle sales (I’m looking at you, Volkswagen!) but with any luck that won’t happen.
Blimey, diesels just can’t catch a break these days!
