Knowra Transport emissions Transport emissions Transport emissions are greenhouse gases and air pollutants released by moving people and goods. They come from vehicle operation, fuel production, and transport infrastructure.
Internal combustion engine : An engine that burns fuel inside cylinders to produce mechanical power. Road vehicles release carbon dioxide and combustion pollutants when these engines burn fuel.
Road transport : The movement of people and goods on roads using vehicles such as cars, buses, and trucks. Cars and freight trucks are major sources of transport emissions in many regions.
Climate change : Long-term shifts in temperatures and weather patterns, now driven mainly by human greenhouse gas emissions. Carbon dioxide from transport contributes to the accumulation of heat-trapping gases.
Tailpipe emissions : Pollutants released directly from a vehicle’s exhaust during operation. Tailpipe figures omit emissions from producing fuel, vehicles, and infrastructure.
Avoid–Shift–Improve : A transport strategy that reduces unnecessary travel, shifts trips to lower-emission modes, and improves vehicle efficiency. It frames emissions reduction as more than replacing engines or fuels.
Well-to-wheel emissions : The greenhouse gas emissions associated with producing, distributing, and using a vehicle’s energy. This accounting captures fuel production as well as emissions from vehicle operation.
Aviation emissions : Greenhouse gases and other atmospheric effects associated with aircraft and aviation operations. Aircraft emit carbon dioxide and nitrogen oxides, while contrails add warming effects.
Air pollution : The presence of harmful substances in the atmosphere at levels that threaten health or ecosystems. Transport exhaust and non-exhaust particles worsen pollution, especially near busy roads.
Carbon intensity : The amount of carbon dioxide or equivalent greenhouse gases emitted per unit of activity or output. Emissions per passenger-kilometer or tonne-kilometer can differ from total sector emissions.
Induced demand : The increase in travel caused by expanded transport capacity or reduced travel costs. New roads can generate additional driving that erodes projected emissions savings.
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