Brian Barton
Cars are a major contributor to air pollution, which has serious health and environmental consequences worldwide. While the production of electricity by coal-fired power plants can cause more pollution than most cars, the personal automobile is the single greatest polluter. Cars emit pollutants such as carbon dioxide, methane, nitrous oxide, and hydrofluorocarbon, which increase the levels of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere. Measuring car pollution is a complex issue, and there are discrepancies between the emissions measured in laboratories and those observed in real-world driving conditions. Scientists use sophisticated instruments to measure concentrations of harmful substances in the air, and remote sensing devices are also used to measure exhaust emissions.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Average annual carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions of a typical passenger vehicle | 4.6 metric tons of CO2 per year |
| Average carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions per mile | 400 grams of CO2 per mile |
| Average carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions from new cars sold in the European Union in 2017 | 119.6 grammes (g) of CO2 per kilometre |
| Average carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions from new cars sold in the European Union in 2016 | 119.2 grammes (g) of CO2 per kilometre |
| Average carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions from a typical gasoline vehicle | 8,887 grams of CO2 per gallon of gasoline burned |
| Pollutants emitted by cars | Carbon dioxide (CO2), methane (CH4), nitrous oxide (N2O), hydrofluorocarbon (HFC), hydrocarbons, nitrogen oxides, water vapour, nitrogen, ammonium, sulfur oxides, volatile organic compounds, ozone |
| Pollutants emitted by cars that cause health issues | Carbon dioxide (CO2) and other greenhouse gases |
| Pollutants inside vehicles | VOCs such as benzene and acrolein, SVOCs such as PBDEs |
| Ways to measure car pollution | Remote sensing devices, wearable devices, on-road measurements using a mobile platform hybrid vehicle with real-time instrumentation |
| Ways to reduce exposure to car pollution | Using high-efficiency filters for passenger cabin air, not idling or caravanning school buses, carpooling, avoiding driving during congested "rush hour" traffic and at lunchtime, postponing or combining errands, replacing face-to-face meetings with conference calls |
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What You'll Learn
Measuring CO2 emissions from vehicles
There are two ways to calculate the CO2 emissions of a fleet of vehicles: mathematical estimation and accurate measurement. Mathematical estimation involves calculating the number of litres of fuel burned in a given period using the number of miles travelled and the average miles-per-gallon (MPG). This value can then be multiplied by the amount of CO2 produced by burning a litre of the fuel in question. For example, one litre of diesel produces 2.54 kg of CO2. This method, however, does not account for the fact that each vehicle's consumption will vary depending on its make, model, age, and the driving style.
To obtain a more precise measurement, vehicle tracking technologies can be used to collect information about MPG and real fuel consumption. This data can then be analysed to provide insights and advice for improving fleet sustainability.
Standardised laboratory tests have also been designed to measure vehicle fuel economy and CO2 emissions. These tests are designed to mimic typical driving patterns and are used to ensure that automobile manufacturers meet federal greenhouse gas and corporate average fuel economy (CAFE) standards. However, these tests may not always be representative of real-world driving conditions. For example, official test procedures in Europe have been criticised for this very reason, and initiatives are being planned to improve consistency between official vehicle emissions and real-world driving performance.
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Calculating the impact of fuel type
The impact of fuel type on car pollution is a critical aspect of understanding a vehicle's environmental footprint. Fuel type influences the amount and type of emissions produced, which directly contributes to air pollution and climate change. Here are some key considerations when calculating the impact of fuel type:
Carbon Dioxide (CO2) Emissions
The amount of CO2 emitted is a crucial factor in assessing the impact of fuel type. Different fuels produce varying amounts of CO2 when burned. For example, a typical passenger vehicle burning gasoline emits about 400 grams of CO2 per mile, resulting in approximately 4.6 metric tons of CO2 annually, assuming a fuel economy of 22.2 miles per gallon and 11,500 miles driven per year. Burning one gallon of gasoline produces about 8,887 grams of CO2, while diesel fuel emits even higher levels, with 10,180 grams of CO2 per gallon.
Other Greenhouse Gas Emissions
In addition to CO2, gasoline-powered vehicles emit other greenhouse gases such as methane (CH4) and nitrous oxide (N2O) from the tailpipe. While these emissions may be smaller in quantity compared to CO2, they have a higher global warming potential (GWP) and thus play a significant role in the overall climate impact.
Electric Vehicles (EVs)
Electric vehicles offer a significant reduction in tailpipe emissions, as they do not emit any direct tailpipe pollutants. However, it is important to consider the emissions associated with electricity production and distribution, as well as potential leaks from air conditioners, which can contribute to greenhouse gas emissions.
Fuel Economy
The fuel economy of a vehicle, measured in miles per gallon (MPG) or litres per 100 kilometres, is another critical factor. A more fuel-efficient vehicle will emit less pollution per mile driven, reducing its environmental impact. Fuel economy can vary based on factors such as engine size, vehicle weight, and driving conditions.
Real-World Driving Conditions
It is important to acknowledge the discrepancy between laboratory emissions tests and real-world driving emissions. Official test procedures may not always represent actual driving conditions, resulting in potential underestimations of a vehicle's emissions. Factors such as driving behaviour, road conditions, and traffic can significantly influence the amount of pollution emitted.
By considering these factors, it is possible to calculate and compare the impact of different fuel types on car pollution. This analysis can inform decisions regarding fuel choices, vehicle technology, and policies aimed at reducing emissions and mitigating climate change.
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Air pollution from vehicles
Carbon dioxide is the primary greenhouse gas emitted by vehicles, contributing to global warming and climate change. The burning of gasoline and diesel fuel releases carbon dioxide into the atmosphere, leading to increased concentrations of this gas. While CO2 is essential for life on Earth, the excessive amounts produced by vehicles overwhelm the planet's natural absorption processes.
Carbon monoxide, an odorless and colorless gas, poses a severe threat to human health. It is formed by the combustion of fossil fuels and primarily emitted from vehicle tailpipes. When inhaled, carbon monoxide blocks oxygen from reaching vital organs, endangering people at all life stages and even leading to premature death.
Nitrogen oxides, such as nitrogen dioxide (NO2), are another significant pollutant emitted from vehicles. These gases contribute to the formation of smog, which irritates the respiratory system and poses risks to vulnerable individuals, particularly children and the elderly. Additionally, nitrogen oxides play a role in the creation of ground-level ozone, further exacerbating respiratory issues.
Sulfur dioxide, produced by burning sulfur-containing fuels like diesel and coal, also contributes to air pollution. It can react in the atmosphere to form fine particles, posing health risks, especially to young children and individuals with asthma.
Particulate matter, including soot and fine particles from vehicle exhaust, can penetrate deep into the lungs and cause serious health issues. These particles can be primary pollutants or secondary pollutants formed from hydrocarbons, nitrogen oxides, and sulfur dioxides. Diesel engines are a major source of particulate matter pollution.
Measuring vehicle emissions is a complex task. While laboratory tests are standardized to evaluate vehicle fuel economy and emissions, they may not always reflect real-world driving conditions. Initiatives are being developed to improve consistency between laboratory tests and on-road performance, aiming for more accurate assessments of vehicle emissions.
Addressing air pollution from vehicles requires a multifaceted approach. Transitioning to cleaner vehicles, such as electric or hybrid models, can significantly reduce emissions. Additionally, maintaining and properly servicing vehicles can ensure they operate efficiently and minimize pollution. Individuals can also contribute by driving less, carpooling, and opting for fuel-efficient vehicles, ultimately reducing the amount of harmful pollutants released into the atmosphere.
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Health risks of car pollution
Cars are a major contributor to air pollution and the health risks it poses globally. When cars burn gasoline, they emit pollutants such as carbon dioxide, methane, nitrous oxide, and hydrofluorocarbon. These emissions increase the levels of carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases in the atmosphere, leading to global warming. While many factors contribute to air pollution, the production of electricity by coal-fired power plants can cause more pollution than most cars.
The health consequences of car pollution are significant. Air pollutants emitted from cars are believed to cause cancer and contribute to various health problems, including asthma, heart disease, birth defects, and eye irritation. Fine particles emitted by cars, less than one-tenth the diameter of a human hair, can penetrate deep into the lungs and pose a serious threat to human health. Carbon monoxide, a poisonous gas emitted by cars, blocks oxygen from reaching the brain, heart, and other vital organs when inhaled. Sulfur dioxide, another pollutant, poses the largest health risk to young children and asthmatics, as it can form fine particles in the atmosphere.
The impact of car pollution is particularly severe near busy roads and highways, with higher levels of air pollution in urban areas. Epidemiological studies have shown that individuals living near roadways are at an increased risk of morbidity and mortality due to the degradation of air quality caused by congestion and vehicle emissions. Congestion-charging zones in European cities, such as London and Stockholm, have been predicted to reduce mortality rates significantly by decreasing traffic-related air pollution.
Additionally, the effects of climate change driven by heat-trapping emissions also impact people's health and well-being. Climate change leads to more frequent and intense heat waves, sea level rise, flooding, drought, and wildfires, which can have devastating consequences for communities, especially those in low-income and marginalized areas. Exposure to harmful particulate matter air pollution is often inequitable, with certain racial and ethnic groups experiencing higher concentrations of pollutants.
While car pollution poses significant health risks, advancements in clean vehicle and fuel technologies offer promising solutions. Electric vehicles, for example, emit far fewer tailpipe emissions than gasoline-powered cars, and fuel cell electric vehicles operating on hydrogen only emit water vapour.
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Reducing car pollution
Motor vehicles are a significant contributor to air pollution. Burning gasoline and diesel fuel creates harmful byproducts such as nitrogen dioxide, carbon monoxide, hydrocarbons, benzene, formaldehyde, and carbon dioxide—the most common human-caused greenhouse gas.
However, there are several ways to reduce car pollution:
Drive Efficiently
Minimise unnecessary idling, which wastes fuel and causes excess engine wear. Modern vehicles do not require "warming up" in the winter, so there is no need to turn on the engine until you are ready to drive. Go easy on the gas pedal and brakes, and observe posted speed limits.
Maintain Your Vehicle
Keep your car well-maintained and in good repair. Follow the manufacturer's maintenance schedule, use the recommended motor oil, and change the oil as needed. Keep your tires properly inflated, as this makes your vehicle more fuel-efficient. Newer vehicles have complex emission controls, so if any of these are not functioning properly, your vehicle will pollute more than it should.
Choose a Cleaner Vehicle
When shopping for a new car, look for fuel-efficient vehicles with low greenhouse gas emissions. Electric, hybrid, and compact fuel-efficient gas vehicles may be good options. Driving the most fuel-efficient vehicle that meets your needs will reduce pollution and save you money.
Reduce Your Driving
The best way to reduce air pollution from motor vehicles is to drive less. Try walking, biking, or taking public transit to your destination. Alternative forms of transportation have a significantly lighter carbon dioxide footprint.
Improve Urban Design
Urban design can help reduce traffic-related air pollution. This includes prioritising roads with fewer stops and optimal speed limits for fuel consumption, which is typically between 45 and 65 miles per hour.
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Frequently asked questions
Scientists use sophisticated instruments to measure concentrations of harmful substances in the air, but it is difficult to pinpoint the exact percentage of air pollution that comes from cars. However, there are wearable devices that can give you a personal measurement of the amount of exhaust you are exposed to in your car, such as those from Breath-Tech.com.
Cars emit carbon dioxide (CO2), methane (CH4), nitrous oxide (N2O), and hydrofluorocarbon (HFC) from leaking air conditioners. They also emit pollutants from the evaporation of fuel and the combustion process.
You can reduce the amount of pollution your car produces by carpooling, avoiding driving during rush hour, and choosing a more fuel-efficient vehicle. The Green Vehicle Guide lists pollution levels for all recent model-year passenger vehicles sold in the United States, which can help you choose a cleaner vehicle.
