When people say this, it tells me they are ignorant on the subject. Next time try "Prove me wrong."
The introduction of catalytic converters on passenger vehicles made huge improvements in air quality. Most noticeably in warm urban areas. LA, Phoenix etc. Fair enough. (I would argue the lead was a bigger issue.)
However, the amount of *extra* pollution put out by the small fraction of modified passenger vehicles is statistically ZERO in the grand scheme of things. Cruise ships pollute more than all the modified cars on the road combined. Go after them.