Cleaning Up Diesel Trains

The American Lung Association is working to make transportation pollution-free across the country – including trains.

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.  

Clean Up Locomotives for Cleaner Air Factsheet

The transportation sector is a leading source of harmful, lung-damaging air pollution. Learn more about what needs to be done.

Take Action Now

Join us in calling for more investments in clean transportation and other bold actions to protect the health of Americans from climate change.
Take Action

Page last updated: July 1, 2025

Freedom From Smoking Clinic - Waterville, ME
Waterville, ME | May 15, 2025
Freedom From Smoking Clinic - Middletown CT
Middletown, CT | Jun 02, 2025