Q.9 - Green Technologies for Transport

Answer: Green Technologies for Transport

Green Transport Technologies are eco-friendly solutions designed to reduce the environmental impact of transportation by minimizing emissions, improving fuel efficiency, and using renewable energy sources. Transport accounts for ~24% of global CO2 emissions.

Key Green Transport Technologies

1. Electric Vehicles (EVs)

Battery Electric Vehicles (BEVs): 100% electric, zero tailpipe emissions

Plug-in Hybrid (PHEVs): Electric + IC engine combination

India target: 30% EV sales by 2030

Benefits: Zero local emissions, lower operating costs, quieter operation

FAME II scheme providing ₹10,000 crore incentives

2. Hydrogen Fuel Cells

Uses hydrogen + oxygen to produce electricity

Only emission: Water vapor

Suitable for heavy vehicles, buses, trains

National Green Hydrogen Mission in India

3. Biofuels

Ethanol Blending: E20 (20% ethanol in petrol) target by 2025

Biodiesel: From vegetable oils, animal fats

Reduces dependence on fossil fuels

Lower lifecycle carbon emissions

4. Compressed Natural Gas (CNG)

Cleaner than petrol/diesel - 20-30% lower CO2

Widely used in Delhi buses, auto-rickshaws

Lower particulate and NOx emissions

5. Public Transport Systems

Metro Rail: Electric, mass transit reducing car dependency

Bus Rapid Transit (BRT): Dedicated lanes, efficient bus systems

Light Rail: Urban electric rail systems

Reduces per-capita emissions significantly

6. Non-Motorized Transport

Cycling infrastructure: Dedicated bike lanes, bike-sharing

Pedestrian zones: Walkable city design

Zero-emission, promotes health

7. Intelligent Transport Systems (ITS)

Smart traffic management reducing congestion

Real-time route optimization

Connected vehicles for efficient driving

Conclusion

Green transport technologies include EVs, hydrogen fuel cells, biofuels, CNG, public transit, cycling, and smart systems. These solutions reduce emissions, improve air quality, and decrease fossil fuel dependence. India's push toward EVs, ethanol blending, and metro expansion represents a comprehensive approach to decarbonizing transportation, which is essential for meeting climate targets and improving urban air quality.

Sources: Module 2 & 3 Notes | MoRTH | NITI Aayog