Reducing Fuel Consumption

Car emissions

Every year, on September 22nd, we have a European Car Free Day. Across the EU, people are asked to take different types of transport like walking, cycling and public transport.

Car emissions

Car emissions

Every year, on September 22nd, we have a European Car Free Day. Across the EU, people are asked to take different types of transport like walking, cycling and public transport.

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The transport system in Ireland continues to grow and with that the volume of congestion and pollution also increases. These increases have put heavy strains on the environment. The actual vehicles we drive contribute by emitting harmful emissions into the environment, contributing to climate change, acid rain and respiratory diseases. Transport accounts for one of the largest sources of greenhouse gas emissions in Ireland, contributing 20.3% of national CO₂ emissions in 2019 (EPA, 2020).

In this context, Irish people are becoming increasingly car dependent. According to Census 2016 data, private ownership of cars has tripled to over 1.3m in just thirty years. On average, a car in Ireland travels 19,000 kilometres a year, releasing 2,895kg of carbon into the atmosphere.

Bicycles at a school

This is a picture of bicycles outside a school. It shows us that lots of students cycle to this school. It is always important to wear a helmet and bright clothes while cycling on public roads.

Photo Credit: 'Segun Olude.

Bicycles at a school
Photo Credit: 'Segun Olude.

Bicycles at a school

This is a picture of bicycles outside a school. It shows us that lots of students cycle to this school. It is always important to wear a helmet and bright clothes while cycling on public roads.

Photo Credit: 'Segun Olude.

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As motorists we should think about taking public transport, walking or cycling for the daily commute and to try to keep bus lanes free. Why not keep your speed down, as driving at 80-95 kph means your emissions will be lowest. Driving over 110 kph will rapidly increase your emissions and it can cost you up to 25% more in fuel to drive at 110 kph compared to 80 kph.

As consumers, buying a bicycle and using it is a good idea for the environment and our health. Buying locally produced produce also involves less transport.

Remember:

• One litre of petrol used results in 2.36 kg of CO₂ emitted to the atmosphere.
• One litre of diesel used results in 2.68 kg of CO₂ emitted to the atmosphere.
• One litre of E85 blend bioethanol used results in approximately 1.04kg of CO₂ emitted to the atmosphere.

The Cycle to Work Scheme

Cycling is one of the greenest modes of transport. The Cycle to Work Scheme is a tax incentive scheme that aims to encourage employees to cycle to and from work. Under the scheme employers can pay for bicycles and bicycle equipment for their employees and the employee pays back through a salary sacrifice arrangement of up to 12 months. The employee is not liable for tax, PRSI, levies or the Universal Social Charge on their repayments. Handy and easy to read FAQs can be found on Revenue's website.