#10 Car Emissions
#10 Car Emissions
The amount of greenhouse and poisonous gases released into the atmosphere from vehicle emission is harmful to human health, and detrimental to the environment. Are you aware that nearly 28.5% of all US greenhouse gas emissions come from transportation? By sourcing alternative means of transportation, reducing the miles you drive, or purchasing a hybrid or fuel efficient vehicle – you can directly reduce your car-related greenhouse gas emissions.
What’s all the gas about?
Climate change threatens every aspect of life on our planet. With 77% of Americans commuting to work alone, and an additional 9% utilizing carpool or rideshare services, a tremendous amount of car GHG emissions are being pumped into the environment daily. By lowering our transportation emissions, we can reduce the impacts of climate change. Let’s look at some additional facts on greenhouse emissions.
Facts About Car Emissions:
- Between 1990 and 2015, emissions in the transportation sector increased more in absolute terms, than any other sector.
- 60% of the emissions from the transportation sector in the US come from personal vehicles.
- Cars and trucks release approximately 24 pounds of carbon dioxide and other global-warming gases for every gallon of gas burned.
- Approximately 333 million tons of carbon dioxide are released into the atmosphere from transportation annually.
- Over 90% of the fuel used for transportation is petroleum based, which includes gasoline and diesel.
How can I make an impact?
Action 1: Global Goodness
- Start by taking public transportation or join a rideshare program.
- If your work allows telecommuting, ask to work from home one or two days a week.
- Opt to ride your bike for short distance errands.
- Walk, walk, walk, when possible. Decrease your carbon footprint while increasing health.
Action 2: Planet Protector
- All of Action 1.
- Maximize fuel economy by removing all unneeded items; such as roof racks and unnecessary items in your vehicle.
- Start a rideshare program with co-workers or classmates to preserve gas.
- Supporting local businesses saves shipping emissions from freight industries.
- Keep your vehicle in good condition. Making sure you have the proper air ratio in your tires, the air filter has been changed, and the maintenance is current will improve your gas efficiency.
Action 3: Earth Angel
- All of Actions 1 & 2.
- Purchase a fuel efficient, hybrid or zero emissions car.
- Write to your local congressmen (and women) to commission the EPA in continuing to improve standards for greenhouse gas emissions in the transportation sector.
- Lobby local governments to reduce their carbon footprint with mass transit and government vehicles.
- Choose to be an Ambassador for Change, and always Spread Love and Spread Light.
Facts References:
https://www.epa.gov/transportation-air-pollution-and-climate-change/carbon-pollution-transportation
https://www.ucsusa.org/clean-vehicles/car-emissions-and-global-warming#.XGt_H2RKhsM
https://sciencing.com/effects-car-pollutants-environment-23581.html
https://www.epa.gov/ghgemissions/sources-greenhouse-gas-emissions
