Sanya Matta

Capstone Project

Diesel freight emissions are a leading source of toxic air pollution in Washington, contributing to high childhood asthma rates in communities near ports, highways, and freight hubs. These impacts fall disproportionately on low income neighborhoods and communities of color, where hospital admissions for asthma can be more than double the state average. While newer engine standards and voluntary programs have reduced emissions from recent truck models, thousands of older high polluting engines remain in operation. This brief outlines the health and equity consequences of continued diesel exposure and presents targeted solutions, including phasing out older trucks, expanding zero emission freight infrastructure, and establishing community protection zones. These measures will improve public health, advance environmental justice, and strengthen Washington’s economy.