The World Health Organisation (WHO) has concluded that diesel engine exhaust is undeniably carcinogenic after a week-long of international experts was held in Lyon, France. The WHO now classifies diesel exhaust as a Group 1 carcinogen, meaning it is now undeniably harmful to humans.

 

The meeting saw the classification of diesel fumes upgraded from probably carcinogenic to humans, and was held after the US National Cancer Institute found that occupational exposure to such emissions in underground miners was resulting in substantially increased risk of death from lung cancer.

 

“The scientific evidence was compelling and the Working Group’s conclusion was unanimous: diesel engine exhaust causes lung cancer in humans.” Dr Christopher Portier, Chairman of the IARC working group.

 

“Given the additional health impacts from diesel particulates, exposure to this mixture of chemicals should be reduced worldwide.“

 

The WHO has urged engine makers and diesel producers to work to higher standards to ensure a marked reduction in sulfuret content, changes to engine design to ensure cleaner burning of fuel and to reduce overall emissions through exhaust control technology.