The transportation sector is a leading source of harmful, lung-damaging air pollution. This includes not only gas-powered cars and diesel trucks, but also engines that power trains. Cleaning up trains - powered by locomotive engines – is a crucial part of the solution.
America’s aging locomotives, including both passenger and freight trains, are a major threat to health due to air pollution. Current regulations allow the oldest and dirtiest trains to continue running for decades with no upgrades to newer, more efficient technology.
Locomotives emit cancer-causing pollutants, soot and greenhouse gases. These harmful pollutants impact air quality for millions of Americans, especially those working and living near major rail operations. Breathing polluted air can lead to asthma attacks, heart attacks, and other serious health emergencies including premature death.
The United States needs stronger rules to clean up old trains and protect public health. Fortunately, cleaner and more efficient technology for trains already exists. Updating Environmental Protection Agency locomotive standards will cut pollution, save lives and make our communities healthier.
Page last updated: June 17, 2025
