Are catalytic converters causing pollution?

As if any more proof supporting the theory of unintended consequences was needed, scientists in Massachusetts have found detectable levels of platinum, palladium, rhodium and osmium in the air around Boston. These materials are found in catalytic converters, and these are thought to be the source. Clearly, one should not go invoking the spirit of Dale Gribble and remove their "pollution controls" as the benefit far outweighs the drawback, but some work is definitely necessary to further improve the reliability and durability of such devices.