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Electric rail systems generate significant air pollution, especially when the systems are powered by electricity-generated fossil-fuel power plants, according to a recent study by an environmental and energy technologies-promoting group.



Breakthrough Technologies Institute examined electric heavy and light rail, and found the systems contribute to smog, lung disease and global climate change, and emits pollutants, including carbon dioxide, according to a prepared statement.



The study found that bus rapid transit — which uses low-emission vehicles — would be a cleaner alternative to electric rail systems. Buses produce less pollution than electric rail, and cost less to build and operate, Breakthrough Technologies said.