The problem isn't Diesel engines it's the amount of short and routine journeys people end up making when they should be able to use affordable reliable public transport.
I loathe taking the car into town , I'd rather cycle. Only use the car for long journeys and carrying heavy loads. I love a train journey or a bus ride , I can relax look at the scenery and let someone else drive.
I love my diesels , I just arrange my life to avoid unnessesary journeys and don't run my boat engine for battery charging. A light and a wireless don't use much power.
I saw the diesel programme , interesting. Recorded for OH to watch later.