Introduction:
In Nigeria, a country where fossil fuel-based transportation dominates, the environmental impact of the passenger transport sector is a pressing concern. With a burgeoning population of over 158 million and 25,000 cars sold annually (IEA, 2011; Nairametrics, 2017), understanding the ecological consequences of this sector is vital. This research delves into the lifecycle assessment (LCA) of diesel and petrol vehicles, providing critical insights into their environmental footprints.
Project Overview:
As a Graduate Research Student at the University of Bath in 2020, my focus was to evaluate the environmental impacts of diesel and petrol vehicles prevalent in Nigeria. The study aimed to assess and compare these impacts to propose more sustainable transportation solutions. The necessity for such an analysis stems from the growing environmental concerns and global climate targets, underscoring the importance of sustainable practices within the automotive sector.
Objectives:
- Comprehensive Impact Inventory: Developed an exhaustive inventory detailing the environmental impacts associated with diesel and petrol fuel production, vehicle manufacturing, and operational stages. This inventory was crucial for understanding the full lifecycle impacts of each vehicle type.
- Comparative Analysis: Conducted a thorough comparison of the environmental impacts of diesel versus petrol cars. This analysis involved evaluating factors such as emissions, resource consumption, and overall ecological footprint.
Key Findings:
The LCA revealed significant differences between diesel and petrol vehicles in terms of their environmental impacts. Diesel cars, while often more fuel-efficient, exhibited higher levels of pollutants and greenhouse gas emissions compared to petrol vehicles. The findings highlighted the urgent need for more environmentally friendly transportation options in Nigeria.
Implications:
The results of this study have far-reaching implications for various stakeholders, including the Nigerian government, automotive manufacturers, transport companies, and the general public. The report’s primary objective was to inform and guide these stakeholders towards adopting more sustainable transportation practices.
Conclusion:
In line with ISO 14044:2006 standards, this LCA report provides a detailed and methodologically sound assessment of diesel and petrol vehicles’ environmental impacts. The insights gained aim to support Nigeria’s transition towards more sustainable transport solutions, contributing to global climate goals and environmental sustainability.
Access the Full Report:
For a comprehensive analysis and detailed findings, please access the full report here.
This research underscores the importance of understanding and mitigating the environmental impacts of traditional automotive fuels, paving the way for more sustainable practices in Nigeria’s transportation sector.