Increased concerns about the level of atmospheric pollution, especially carbon dioxide, oxides of nitrogen and particulate emissions, are forcing the transport sector, including aviation, to radically assess how it can reduce the generation of pollutants. It is estimated that approximately 25% of the UK's total carbon emissions are generated by transport, with road vehicles accounting for 85% of this and passenger cars generating about half of all carbon emitted by the transport sector. Mandatory EU limits on oxides of nitrogen from 2010 will have a significant effect on the operation of future transport systems; noise is also a significant nuisance that needs to be minimised.
This briefing discusses some of these issues. It seeks to show how developments in petrol-and diesel-engine technology, as well as hybrid power systems, modern power-train design, and renewable energy resources could help reduce the emission of pollutants. The impact of legislation is discussed too.
Andrew Housden
Pera Knowledge