Transport is perhaps the only major industry whose emissions have increased since 1990, contributing to an increase in world emissions. If the world is to meet its climate pledges under the Paris Agreement, wiser, more ambitious transportation policies are required.
As the world works to minimize its use of coal and oil in the pursuit of a net-zero future, a massive overhaul of urban mobility must act as a gateway to reach sustainable communities. In terms of cutting emissions, zero-emission mobility has the potential to be a key differentiator in the creation of thriving cities with improved transportation options.
Bioenergy Task 39 advocates for low levels of carbon gas emissions and pollution from transportation, as well as zero-emission cars, aircraft, and ships, and taxation that makes polluters compensate for pollution rather than society as a whole.
Cars
To create a net-zero transportation system by 2050, only zero-emission vehicles must be sold beginning in 2035. Battery electric automobiles are the most optimal, economical, and accessible zero-emission technology accessible to drivers worldwide today.
However, electrification must be done in a sustainable manner that does not leave anyone behind. This includes tax reform, supply chain adaptation, the development of seamless charging infrastructures, and assuring that batteries are manufactured in a sustainable manner.
To be entirely sustainable and socially conscious, the shift towards e-mobility must be supported by an ecological, ethical, and world-leading battery distribution network. Furthermore, advances in energy storage and recycling mean that the amount of core raw materials needed will be diminished significantly.
Electric Cars
Tax reform, supply chain adaptation, easy charging, and assuring batteries are manufactured responsibly are all critical foundations of sustainable e-mobility.
Carmakers are finally taking electric vehicles seriously, thanks to the EU 2020/21 CO2 target for autos. The next move is to strengthen the vision of the 2025/2030 automotive emission rules, with the intention of attaining 100% new vehicles zero-emission by 2035.
While most EV models are still more expensive than equivalent diesel and gasoline vehicles, electric vehicles are predicted to approach parity with conventional versions by the mid-2020s.
However, overall costs of ownership are more relevant to consumers and are already relatively low for some EVs when maintenance expenses are factored in.
Charging Stations
By the end of 2020, the EU already has 225,000 public charging outlets. This is consistent with the Commission’s recommendation of one charger for every ten vehicles.
Nonetheless, it is critical to deploy infrastructure that is strategically positioned, smart, and interconnected. Smart charging at home and office is a priority because this is where the majority of charging will occur.
It is also critical to roll out rapid charging points on all EU routes and outside of cities to enable charging for top-ups and shareable vehicles. With straightforward pricing and frictionless payment solutions, it should be as simple for a user to power their EV as it is to fill their gas tank today.
Lifecycle Emissions
While electric vehicles emit no pollutants, upstream emissions from manufacturing and electricity generation do exist. But, even in the worst-case situation, an electric car with a battery emits less CO2 than a diesel or gasoline vehicle.