Climate change and global warming have become significant concerns in the recent decade, with citizens increasingly focused on the idea of sustainable living and the production and implementation of greener, more energy-efficient solutions. Electric cars – or EVs – have been hypothesized as one of the most effective ways of reducing greenhouse gas emissions, as well as one of the best investments in terms of the environment.
Electric cars lack the emissions and pollutants of gas-powered cars which, when released, are thought to act as potent contributors to climate change, with some gases lasting for decades in the atmosphere. In particular, electric cars are considered far cleaner than their petrol counterparts as they emit no tailpipe emissions and require fewer resources to maintain, given there is less reliance on oil-based lubricants. Electric vehicles have also been lauded for their smooth and efficient operation, their silent engines, and the potential to refuel much faster than gasoline-powered models.
Though electric cars do offer an obvious, and globally desirable, way to significantly reduce the output of harmful gases, they are not a one-stop solution to climate change. EVs have a more expensive lifetime cost than traditional combustion engine vehicles and their batteries are often made with nickel and cobalt, both of which require intensive mining practices. Additionally, EVs batteries pose a hazard to the environment if disposed of improperly, along with being costly to produce or replace.
Looking at the broader scope of global warming, electric cars are not the only solution. Local regulations that cut down on air pollution can be effective in reducing emissions on a broader scale. Practices like cold start regulation and engine warm-ups, along with advanced technology for emissions control, can prove fruitful. Additionally, road construction and congestion pricing measure may be implemented to set the underlying foundation for global change.
In spite of this, the advantages of electric cars are undeniable, and the introduction of more EVs on the road may have a monumental impact over time. As governments provide more incentives to encourage car manufacturers to switch to electric vehicles in order to reduce carbon dioxide levels in the environment, the cost of electric cars may very well decrease and become more accessible to the general public. Moving forward, the development of public charging infrastructure to support electric vehicles and further investment in the research and development of clean car technologies can potentially move the global community closer to a more sustainable future.
Therefore, while electric cars do not provide comprehensive solutions, they are part of a piecemeal approach that requires collective action, investment and regulations to fully benefit from their potential. If governments and citizens alike prioritize investing in electric vehicles, the progress toward a more energy-efficient and environmentally friendly tomorrow will be promising.
