Carbon Dioxide emissions question

In summary, the conversation discusses the potential benefits of switching all cars and transportation methods to electric or clean sources in terms of improving air quality in cities. The percentage of nitrous oxide and carbon dioxide emissions that are attributed to mobile sources is also mentioned, with the idea that local government and state standards play a role in regulating these emissions. The effects of different sources of pollution are also considered, such as the impact of traffic exhaust on people versus emissions from power plants. The idea of NIMBY (Not In My Backyard) is mentioned and the potential for nuclear power as a secure source of energy is suggested.
  • #1
Necross
34
0
I've been wondering recently about the air quality in cities. Suppose all cars/transport methods were to go electric or clean (electric cars etc...) how much would air quality improve by? In other words what % of the nitrous oxide and carbon dioxide emissions are mobile sources responsible for? I've been trying to look this up but can't seem to get a consistant number. Any help in clearing this issue would be appreciated.

- Necross
 
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  • #2
It depends on the area.
In most cities mobile sources are the source of most pollution, overall (for most countries) they are less than fixed sources - power stations/factories.
Your local government, city/municipality/state probably publishes local figures for their standards from local mobile/fixed sources.

You also have to consider the actual effects - smog from traffic exhausts emitted at street level in LA in summer has a bigger effect on the people than the same mass of the same chemicals emitted from a power station stack in the middle of nowhere.

If you are in the USA, start here http://www.epa.gov/oar/data/index.html
 
  • #3
mgb_phys provided a fine static analysis.

The overall air quality might marginally improve for the higher quality emissions from power plants, but their total emissions would increase, with a constant pollutant fraction, as they pick-up the otherwise distributed transportation power demand.

For transmission efficiency, power plants are not far removed from major loads like cities.

NIMBY isn't good enough. Nuclear power is secure power.
 
  • #4
I agree with Doug Huffman's view...
 
  • #5


Thank you for your question, Necross. The impact of transportation on air quality is a complex issue that depends on various factors such as the type of vehicles, the distance traveled, and the source of electricity for electric vehicles. However, research has shown that transportation is a significant contributor to air pollution, particularly in urban areas.

According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), transportation is responsible for approximately 28% of carbon dioxide emissions in the United States. This includes emissions from passenger cars, light-duty trucks, and medium/heavy-duty trucks. In addition, mobile sources, including transportation, contribute to about 35% of nitrogen oxide emissions.

If all cars and transportation methods were to go electric or use clean energy sources, there would be a significant improvement in air quality. Electric vehicles produce zero direct emissions, and the use of clean energy sources would greatly reduce the emissions from power plants that supply electricity to these vehicles. However, it is important to note that the production of electricity itself can also contribute to air pollution, so the type of energy source used is crucial.

The exact percentage of improvement in air quality would depend on the specific changes made and the location. For example, a city with a high number of electric vehicles and clean energy sources would see a greater improvement than a city with only a few electric vehicles and mostly fossil fuel-powered electricity.

In conclusion, while it is difficult to determine an exact percentage, it is clear that a shift to electric and clean transportation methods would greatly improve air quality and reduce the emissions of carbon dioxide and nitrogen oxide from mobile sources. Continued research and efforts towards sustainable transportation are crucial for addressing air pollution and its impact on our health and the environment.
 

What is carbon dioxide emissions?

Carbon dioxide emissions refer to the release of carbon dioxide gas into the atmosphere. This can occur naturally through processes such as respiration and volcanic eruptions, but it is primarily caused by human activities such as burning fossil fuels.

Why are carbon dioxide emissions a concern?

Carbon dioxide emissions are a concern because they contribute to the greenhouse effect, trapping heat within the Earth's atmosphere and causing global warming. This can lead to negative impacts on the environment, including rising sea levels, more frequent and severe natural disasters, and disruptions to ecosystems.

Which countries produce the most carbon dioxide emissions?

The top three countries with the highest carbon dioxide emissions are China, the United States, and India. These countries have large populations and economies that heavily rely on fossil fuels for energy and transportation.

How can we reduce carbon dioxide emissions?

There are several ways to reduce carbon dioxide emissions, including transitioning to renewable energy sources, improving energy efficiency, and implementing carbon taxes or cap-and-trade systems. Individuals can also make a difference by reducing their own carbon footprint, such as by using public transportation, consuming less energy, and supporting companies with sustainable practices.

What are the consequences of not addressing carbon dioxide emissions?

If carbon dioxide emissions continue to rise at current levels, the Earth's temperature is projected to increase significantly, leading to more severe and frequent natural disasters, food and water shortages, and displacement of communities. It is crucial to address carbon dioxide emissions in order to mitigate these potential consequences and protect the planet for future generations.

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