Health Benefits of MHDZEVs
See how medium- and heavy-duty zero-emission vehicles (MHDZEVs) affect each of these health and safety risks.
Pollutants like NOx and PM2.5 from diesel engines contribute to respiratory diseases. Studies indicate that long-term exposure to PM2.5 is associated with a 4–8% increase in respiratory mortality for every 10 µg/m³ increase in PM2.5 levels. (EPA, 2023)
Pollutants like NOx and PM2.5 from diesel engines contribute to cardiovascular diseases. Long-term exposure to ambient PM2.5 can increase the risk of cardiovascular diseases, with a 15% increase in the risk of heart attacks and strokes for every 10 µg/m³ increase in PM2.5 levels. (World Health Organization, 2021)
Diesel exhaust is a significant source of air pollution that contains over 40 known cancer-causing substances, and studies show that long-term exposure to diesel exhaust can increase the risk of lung cancer by up to 40%. (International Agency for Research on Cancer, 2012)
Prolonged exposure to loud vehicle noise can result in hearing impairment and tinnitus. 1.1 billion young people are at risk due to exposure to unsafe sound levels. (World Health Organization, 2019)
Noise pollution can interfere with sleep, causing insomnia and poor sleep quality, which in turn impacts overall health and cognitive function. Chronic noise exposure can lead to sleep disturbances, which significantly impact cognitive function and health. (American Psychological Association, 2019)
Persistent noise pollution lowers the quality of life in affected areas, making outdoor activities less enjoyable and reducing overall well-being.
Severe CO poisoning can be fatal. It binds with hemoglobin in the blood, reducing the oxygen-carrying capacity and leading to tissue hypoxia. Carbon monoxide poisoning is responsible for 300 deaths and 200 hospitalizations per year in Canada. (Health Infobase Canada, 2023)
Exposure to smoke and toxic fumes from vehicle fires can lead to respiratory problems, cardiovascular issues, and other severe health complications. (Miri et al., 2018)