As human-generated greenhouse gas emissions continue to melt polar ice caps and spark increasingly frequent extreme weather events, it’s no wonder that much of the public is asking “How much do vehicles contribute to global warming?” Transportation accounts for approximately 14% of global emissions, with cars, planes and ships playing a dominant role. As nations look to mitigate climate change and meet the goals set out by the Paris Agreement, it’s becoming increasingly apparent that a strong shift away from gas-powered vehicles is needed.
Vehicles are one of the most harmful sources of greenhouse gas emissions. An average passenger car will emit around 4.6 tons of CO2 over its lifetime. This total increases when you consider long-distance trucking, which emits an average of 24 tons of CO2 emissions for every hectare shipped. In the US alone, the transportation sector accounts for almost 30% of all energy-related emissions and is the largest source of both carbon dioxide and nitrogen oxide emissions. This is despite the fact that the US has enacted various regulations and technological advances over the years to reduce tailpipe emissions.
To demonstrate just how damaging the effects of vehicles can be, the levels of air pollution in major cities around the world is concerning. In cities like London, Paris, and New York, levels of nitrogen dioxide (NO2) are significantly higher than the legal limits set by the World Health Organization. Furthermore, a recent study found that cities like Amsterdam, Barcelona and Stockholm are some of the worst polluters in Europe when it comes to CO2 emissions from cars and road transport.
The good news is, governments, businesses and non-profit organisations are making progress in transitioning away from gas-powered vehicles. Initiatives such as the Low Emission Vehicle (LEV) market have seen a number of countries, including the UK and France, slowly transition away from high-emission petrol and diesel cars. New production models and laws are edging the market towards electric vehicles, which have zero-emissions. This transition will be slow, however, due to the production costs and infrastructure changes associated with electric vehicle use.
On an individual level, small changes can have a big impact. Reusable water bottles, coffee mugs, and shopping bags can help reduce the amount of plastic and Styrofoam waste that is created when buying food and drinks. If possible, it is also important to walk, cycle or use public transport instead of taking a car. This reduces emissions and cuts down on traffic congestion.
Ultimately, the burning of fossil fuels to power vehicles is causing serious damage and climate change is quickly becoming the most pressing issue of our time. It is essential that nations commit to further reducing their emissions and work towards the transition to a low-carbon future. To do this, it is imperative that drivers and citizens alike take responsibility and make small changes in their daily habits to reduce vehicle-generated greenhouse gases.
