Cars' Pollution Problem In Australia: Understanding The Impact

Australia's transport sector is the third-largest emitter of greenhouse gases, accounting for 21% of the country's emissions. Passenger cars and light commercial vehicles alone contribute 60% of transport emissions and over 10% of Australia's total emissions. Research has shown that vehicle emissions cause over 11,000 premature deaths annually, with many hospitalized due to cardiovascular and respiratory issues. With the transport sector projected to become Australia's largest source of emissions by 2030, the country is working to reduce transport emissions and encourage the use of electric vehicles (EVs).

Cars and health issues

Vehicle emissions are a major health concern in Australia, with the country already having the worst record in the OECD for NOx emissions. The average Western Australian car is estimated to produce twice its weight in CO2 emissions annually, contributing to climate change and air pollution. This pollution has very real health impacts, causing serious health problems for Australians.

The health problems associated with vehicle emissions include irritation and inflammation of the respiratory system, exacerbation of asthma, and reduced immunity to respiratory infections. Air pollution is also known to contribute to cardiovascular disease, stroke, cancer, low birth weight, and inhibited childhood development. A study from the University of Melbourne found that vehicle pollution could be putting more than 19,000 people in the hospital for heart and lung issues and causing 66,000 asthma cases to spike each year. The study also estimated that 11,105 people die prematurely from transport emissions, a figure that is much higher than past estimates and about ten times more than road accidents.

Children are particularly vulnerable to the harmful effects of traffic pollution, especially from idling cars near schools, shopping centres, and childcare centres. The pollution from cars includes nitrogen dioxide and tiny black carbon particles that can be inhaled and enter the bloodstream, posing risks to unborn children as well. Australia's growing reliance on larger, heavier vehicles is exacerbating the problem, as these vehicles emit four times more CO2 than smaller cars and contribute more to air pollution due to increased particulate matter emissions.

To address these health issues, Australia needs to transition away from petrol and diesel cars and towards zero and low-emission vehicles. The government should implement strong fuel efficiency standards and encourage the use of electric vehicles, motorcycles, and motor scooters, which are cheaper to run and need less fuel. Additionally, individuals can make more informed choices when purchasing vehicles by considering their emissions intensity and fuel economy.

There is also a need to reduce car dependency in Australia, with more than 72% of Australians relying on vehicles for daily trips. Expanding public transport, e-mobility, and road pricing are possible solutions to curb car dependency and improve the health of the population. Cycling and brisk walking are excellent ways to include regular exercise in one's daily routine, offering long-term health benefits and reducing traffic and parking problems.

Electric vehicles (EVs)

There are several types of EVs available in Australia, including Battery Electric Vehicles (BEVs) and Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicles (PHEVs). BEVs are fully electric and powered by a battery pack, while PHEVs combine a combustion engine with a battery that can be charged externally. Closed-loop hybrids, which combine a traditional petrol engine with a battery and electric motor, are currently the most common type of electrified vehicle in Australia. Brands such as Toyota, Lexus, Kia, and Haval offer hybrid options.

Kia, for example, offers a range of EVs in Australia, including the EV5, EV6, EV3, and EV9. These vehicles boast advanced technology, safety features, and sleek designs. They also address "range anxiety" by offering a maximum range of 528km and compatibility with DC Fast Charging stations, significantly reducing charging times.

The benefits of EVs extend beyond their performance and convenience. With less moving parts, EVs require less maintenance compared to petrol and diesel engines. Additionally, EVs produce zero tailpipe emissions, contributing to improved air quality and reduced pollution. This is particularly important in Australia, where car pollution has been found to cause more premature deaths and hospitalizations than car accidents.

To support the adoption of EVs, the Australian government provides resources such as the Green Vehicle Guide, which helps consumers compare the emissions and fuel economy of new light vehicles. The National Transport Commission's report on Light Vehicle Emissions Intensity in Australia also offers insights into emissions trends, helping governments, fleet managers, and consumers make more informed decisions to reduce vehicle emissions.

Fuel consumption

One key aspect is the type of vehicle. Smaller cars generally have lower fuel consumption than larger, less efficient vehicles. Performance-focused cars also tend to consume more fuel than regular cars. However, advancements in engine technology, such as the use of turbocharged engines, have helped reduce fuel consumption and carbon emissions in performance vehicles. The Toyota RAV4, for example, now offers a hybrid powertrain, and other brands like Honda, Kia, Hyundai, and Lexus provide petrol-electric options.

The choice of fuel is another important consideration. Petrol-powered vehicles in Australia typically have a fuel consumption range of 6-8 L/100km for small to medium passenger cars and 9-11 L/100km for larger vehicles like SUVs. These values can vary based on the specific make and model. Additionally, diesel-powered engines are less common in Australia, and the country has a preference for heavier vehicles with more powerful engines, contributing to higher fuel consumption compared to other regions.

Driving habits also play a significant role in fuel efficiency. Aggressive acceleration and speeding can increase fuel consumption. Maintaining a steady speed, using the recommended motor oil, keeping tyres properly inflated, and avoiding unnecessary weight in the vehicle are all simple ways to improve fuel efficiency.

Strong fuel efficiency standards are crucial for reducing transport emissions and improving the environmental performance of new cars. While such standards already cover over 85% of the international car market, Australia currently lacks mandatory fuel efficiency standards. This has made the country a dumping ground for highly polluting petrol and diesel vehicles. Implementing and enforcing fuel efficiency standards, similar to those in the United States, the United Kingdom, and New Zealand, could significantly reduce transport pollution in Australia.

Pollution from idling cars

Vehicle emissions are a significant contributor to Australia's carbon footprint and have serious health implications. Research from the University of Melbourne found that emissions from vehicles caused 11,105 premature adult deaths every year, with many hospitalized due to cardiovascular and respiratory issues.

Children are particularly vulnerable to the harmful effects of traffic pollution from idling cars near schools, shopping centers, and childcare centers. Idling engines produce up to twice as many exhaust emissions as engines in motion, including carbon monoxide, nitrogen dioxide, and particulate matter, which can adversely affect air quality and human health.

To address this issue, Australia has introduced measures such as the Green Vehicle Guide, which helps consumers choose less emissions-intensive vehicles. Additionally, all new conventional petrol and diesel light vehicles must display a Fuel Consumption Label, indicating fuel consumption and CO2 emissions.

By raising awareness, providing information, and implementing policies that encourage the use of more efficient vehicles, Australia is taking steps towards reducing vehicle emissions and improving air quality for its citizens, especially children who are at higher risk.

Simple actions such as turning off engines instead of idling and choosing active transportation options like cycling or walking can also contribute to reducing vehicle emissions and their associated health risks.

Policy changes

The Australian government has implemented various policies to reduce vehicle emissions and combat air pollution caused by cars. Here are some key policy changes aimed at mitigating this issue:

Labelling and Consumer Awareness:

• Fuel Consumption Labelling: All new conventional petrol and diesel light vehicles sold in Australia must display a Fuel Consumption Label on the windscreen. This label indicates the vehicle's fuel consumption and carbon dioxide emissions, helping consumers make informed choices.
• The Green Vehicle Guide: This online guide provides detailed information about the greenhouse and air pollution emissions, as well as the fuel economy of new light vehicles sold in Australia. It includes a star rating system that combines greenhouse and air pollution ratings, enabling consumers to compare different vehicles easily.
• Standardization: Australia already has vehicle standards in place to reduce air pollutants, which have been implemented since the early 1970s. These standards are set by the Australian Design Rules (ADRs) under the Motor Vehicle Standards Act 1989. The ADRs specify the maximum allowable emissions for vehicles under specified tests.

Encouraging Alternative Transport:

• Active Transport Promotion: The government and health experts encourage Australians to incorporate more active transport options, such as walking and cycling, into their daily routines. This not only improves individual health but also reduces traffic congestion and vehicle emissions.
• Public Transport Investment: There is a push for the government to invest in more public transport options, providing Australians with alternatives to using private vehicles, thereby reducing the number of cars on the road.

Emission Standards and Technology:

• Light Vehicle Emission Standards: There is a growing consensus that a well-designed, mandatory vehicle emission standard is an effective way to reduce emissions from the transport sector. This includes improving the efficiency of conventional vehicles and encouraging the adoption of alternative, lower-emission vehicles.
• Electric Vehicles (EVs): The federal government aims to have 3.8 million electric vehicles on the road by 2030, with 90% of new car registrations being EVs. This shift towards electric vehicles is expected to have positive implications for health costs in Australia.
• Fuel Taxes and Pricing: While higher fuel taxes and prices can incentivize the use of more efficient vehicles, they must be carefully designed to address market failures and directly target the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions.

These policy changes demonstrate Australia's commitment to reducing vehicle emissions and mitigating the health and environmental impacts of car pollution.

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