The contribution from private transport to climate change

The contribution from private transport to climate change

climate change is one of the greatest challenges of our time. One of the main causes of greenhouse gases, and thus one of the main drivers of climate change, is private transport. This article provides a detailed look at the influence of private transport on the global climate.

Definition: What is private transport?

Before we look at the contribution of private transport to climate change, it is important to understand what is meant by the term "private transport". Individual traffic describes the traffic or the transportation of people with individually usable transport. This mainly includes cars, but also motorcycles, e-scooters and bicycles.

The climate effects of private transport

Individual transport makes a significant contribution to climate change by releasing large amounts of greenhouse gases, in particular carbon dioxide (CO2).

greenhouse gas emissions: CO2 emissions of private transport

The main source of greenhouse gas emissions in individual traffic comes from the combustion process of fuels such as petrol and diesel in vehicle engines. In these combustion processes, CO2 is released. Depending on the fuel consumption and kilometers driven, the CO2 emissions vary considerably. On average, the specific CO2 emissions of a car is between 120 and 180 grams of CO2 per kilometer.

In fact, private transport is often mentioned as one of the main causes for global warming. According to the Federal Environmental Office, the traffic sector in Germany contributes around 20% to the total amount of CO2 emissions. The majority of these emissions - around 95% - come from road traffic.

other climate -relevant emissions

In addition to CO2, individual traffic but other climate -relevant substances are expelled. This includes, for example, nitrogen oxides (NOx), volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and fine dust. These not only damage the climate, but also have acute effects on human health and the environment.

Effects of private transport on the environment

Direct and indirect effects of private transport on the environment go far beyond the emission of greenhouse gases. They influence the environment in a variety of ways.

air pollution

In addition to climate -damaging greenhouse gases, individual traffic contributes to air pollution by emitting pollutants such as nitrogen oxides and particles. These substances can cause health problems such as respiratory diseases and cardiovascular problems and contribute significantly to premature mortality.

noise pollution

Individual vehicles are also a central source for noise pollution in urban and suburban areas. Noise has significant negative effects on human health, including stress, sleep disorders and increased risk of cardiovascular diseases.

measures to reduce the contribution of private transport to climate change

There are different approaches to reduce the contribution of private transport to climate change. These include switching to low-emission or emission-free vehicles, promoting car sharing and public transport as well as the expansion of bicycle and footpaths.

e-mobility and alternative fuels

One of the best-known strategies for reducing CO2 emissions in the transport sector is to promote e-mobility. Electric cars do not emit CO2 while driving. But here, too, it should be noted that the production of the batteries and the electricity required for this leave a considerable CO2 footprint.

The use of alternative fuels, such as biofuels or hydrogen, can also make a contribution to reducing CO2 emissions. However, it should be taken into account that the production and provision of these fuels also causes emissions and has other environmental impacts.

public transport and sustainable mobility concepts

In addition to technological solutions, social changes are also important in order to reduce the contribution of private transport to climate change. This includes promoting public transport and sharing vehicles (car sharing). By sharing vehicles or driving in groups, the number of vehicles on the street can be reduced, which in turn reduces the environmental impacts.

FAZIT

Individual traffic makes a significant contribution to climate change through the emission of greenhouse gases and other pollutants. In addition, he has a negative impact on the environment and health of people through air pollution and noise. In order to reduce this contribution, both technological innovations and social changes are required. The promotion of e-mobility and alternative fuels plays a role as well as promoting sustainable mobility and promoting public transport.