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Ambitious Targets Could Slash CO2 Emissions from Transport Sector
Context:
A recent study by the World Resources Institute (WRI) India reveals that carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions from India’s transport sector could be reduced by up to 71% by 2050 if high-ambition strategies are adopted.
More on News:
- This significant reduction hinges on three key parameters: electrification, improving fuel economy standards, and switching to cleaner modes of transport and mobility.
- As of 2020, India’s transport sector accounted for 14% of the country’s total energy-related CO2 emissions.
- Road transport was responsible for 90% of these emissions, with heavy-duty vehicles contributing the largest share (45%).
Key Highlights:
- The study underscores the need to decarbonise electricity generation alongside electrifying the transport sector.
- Adopting a carbon-free electricity standard—where 75% of electricity comes from renewable sources—could cut emissions by 75% by 2050 compared to business-as-usual (BAU) values.
- The simulation indicates that transitioning to low-carbon transport for both freight and passenger segments is the most cost-effective approach, potentially saving ₹12,118 per tonne of CO2 equivalent reduced.
- The study highlights the importance of ambitious strategies to achieve India’s net-zero target by 2070.
- Without these measures, the transport sector will continue to rely heavily on fossil fuels, making it difficult to meet climate goals.
BAU Scenario Projections
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- Reliance on Fossil Fuels: If current trends continue, the transport sector will remain heavily reliant on fossil fuels until 2050.
- Fossil Fuel Consumption: The consumption of fossil fuels like liquefied petroleum gas, diesel, and petrol is expected to quadruple over the next three decades.
Demand Increase:
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- Passenger Travel: Expected to triple between 2020 and 2050.
- Freight Travel: Projected to increase seven times during the same period.
Strategic Recommendations:
- Electrification: The mandate for increasing EV sales is projected to have the highest impact on CO2 emissions reduction, with an annual abatement potential of 121 million metric tonnes of CO2 equivalent (MtCO2e).
- Fuel Economy Standards: This involves setting stringent regulations for fuel efficiency in both passenger and freight transport.
- Cleaner Modes of Transport: Shifting to low-carbon transport options, such as public transportation, cycling, and walking, can further reduce emissions.
- Additionally, promoting the use of cleaner fuels and technologies in freight transport is essential.