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Electric light-duty vehicles have decarbonization potential but may not reduce other environmental problems

Authors :
Hao Chen
Serife Elif Can Sener
Cole Van Emburg
Miles Jones
Taylor Bogucki
Nicolas Bonilla
Muzan Williams Ijeoma
Heng Wan
Michael Carbajales-Dale
Source :
Communications Earth & Environment, Vol 5, Iss 1, Pp 1-12 (2024)
Publication Year :
2024
Publisher :
Nature Portfolio, 2024.

Abstract

Abstract Electric vehicles are promoted as ‘clean’ technologies and offer promising reductions in transportation emissions. Nevertheless, their environmental benefits critically depend on the local electricity grid mix and the type of emission being considered. Here, we conduct a comparative life cycle assessment of the four dominant light-duty vehicle categories at both the global scale and in three representative countries: Norway, the US, and China. By analyzing different environmental indicators, particularly global warming potential and respiratory effects, and quantifying related parametric uncertainties, we reveal that the advantages of electric vehicles vary across these regions and across environmental impact types. While electric vehicles offer considerable decarbonization potential as the grid mix becomes cleaner, they might not mitigate other environmental impacts, such as increased respiratory effects on rural, low-income communities. Our results support stakeholders in identifying environmentally friendly vehicle and policy options while considering multiple factors, and emphasize the importance of tailored approaches over one-size-fits-all solutions in sustainable transportation.

Details

Language :
English
ISSN :
26624435
Volume :
5
Issue :
1
Database :
Directory of Open Access Journals
Journal :
Communications Earth & Environment
Publication Type :
Academic Journal
Accession number :
edsdoj.2a506578c134c0190068fc5984d97fd
Document Type :
article
Full Text :
https://doi.org/10.1038/s43247-024-01608-z