I cannot wait for all diesel buses to be replaced by zero-emission vehicles. This must happen as soon as possible (“A bus and a battery could be the route to a cleaner T,’’ Editorial, May 19). It would be nice not have to hold my breath and cover my mouth every time a diesel bus roars by, spewing a cloud of smoke made of black carbon and toxic gases.

Diesel emissions are not only bad for pedestrians, cyclists, and runners. They are also bad, if not worse, for motorists. Studies have shown higher levels of pollution inside vehicles than in the outside air on busy roads. People riding diesel buses are therefore also subjected to significant pollution levels. Respiratory and cardiovascular diseases caused by air pollution kill thousands of people in the United States every year, the highest number among developed nations. It is a massive public health crisis.

Leapfrogging from diesel to zero-emission electric buses is the right way for the MBTA to address both air quality and climate change-related issues. There is no other choice but to electrify the transportation sector if Boston wants to improve the health and well-being of its residents.

Paolo Massoli

Somerville