Diesel cars are low emission in terms of CO2 and buying them is probably better in global warming terms than a petrol car. However, they tend to emit more nitrogen dioxide which is more of an air quality issue. The science on how harmful this actually is in the concentrations you are likely to be experiencing road side is unclear. However, if you have a gas hob and an kitchen which isn't fully ventilated, you will be exposed to concentrations many times than at the busiest junction in Brentford.
Claims are often made about how poor air quality caused by motor vehicles is reducing life expectancy but if nitrogen dioxide is responsible then many more people would be dying due to being in their own kitchens. |