Diesel vehicles on our roads emit fine particles into the air which can penetrate deep into the lungs. This has been linked to respiratory and cardiovascular illnesses. To protect public health, the target is to reduce PM2.5 level from 16μg/m3 in 2008 to 12μg/m3 by 2020 and maintain this level until 2030 with cleaner diesel vehicles.

The LTA co-funded the VICOM Emission Test Laboratory which has been in operation since October 2009. The Laboratory marks Singapore out as one of the few countries in the world to have an internationally recognised independent test centre, which is able to conduct vehicle exhaust gaseous and particulate matter emission tests in compliance with the Euro V or more stringent exhaust emission standards. Tests on vehicle fuel efficiency can also be carried out.

Part of achieving a cleaner transport system also entails encourage cycling and walking with investments in infrastructure such as covered linkways, cycling paths and parking facilities for cyclists at MRT stations.