Transportation is a significant contributor to global greenhouse gas emissions, and understanding he options available to reduce the impact of personal and commercial vehicles is crucial. While the choice of fuel type and its availability often lie beyond the capacity of individuals, there are still actionable steps that can be taken to mitigate emissions on a personal level.

It is important to note that access to transportation options varies across different countries and individual circumstances. In the absence of universal standards to compare these options, the International Standards Organization's ISO 50001 for energy management systems provides a framework for organizations to manage energy efficiently. Additionally, national energy transition policies, such as those outlined in Malaysia's roadmap, offer guidance and efficiency standards for energy usage.

The following is a detailed exploration of emissions reduction technologies for diesel vehicles, updated with the latest data:

1. Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF)

Function: Captures and oxidizes particulate matter (soot) from diesel exhaust.

Emissions Reduction:

- Particulate Matter (PM): 85-99%

- Hydrocarbons (HC):50-90%

- Carbon Monoxide (CO): 50-90%

Cost: $3,000 -$10,000 per vehicle.

Lifespan: 100,000 -300,000 miles.

Maintenance: Periodic regeneration and eventual replacement necessary.

2. Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR)

Function: Converts nitrogen oxides (NOx) into nitrogen and water using a reductant.

Emissions Reduction:

- Nitrogen Oxides (NOx): 70-95%

Cost: $8,000 -$15,000 per vehicle.

Lifespan: 200,000 -500,000 miles.

Maintenance: Periodic refilling of diesel exhaust fluid (DEF) and SCR catalyst maintenance.

3. Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR)

Function: Lowers combustion temperatures to reduce NOx formation by recirculating exhaust gases.

Emissions Reduction:

- Nitrogen Oxides (NOx): 30-50%

Cost: $1,500 - $5,000per vehicle.

Lifespan: 150,000 -300,000 miles.

Maintenance: Regular cleaning to prevent carbon buildup.

4. Diesel Oxidation Catalyst (DOC)

Function: Oxidizes CO and unburned HC into CO2 and water.

Emissions Reduction:

- Carbon Monoxide (CO): 50-90%

- Hydrocarbons (HC): 50-90%

- Particulate Matter(PM): 10-30%

Cost: $1,000 - $3,000 per vehicle.

Lifespan: 200,000 -500,000 miles.

Maintenance: Low; periodic inspection required.

5. Hybrid and Electric Assist Systems

Function: Reduces fuel consumption and emissions with electric motor assistance.

Emissions Reduction:

- Carbon Dioxide (CO₂): 20-60%

- Nitrogen Oxides (NOx): 30-50%

- Particulate Matter (PM): 30-50%

Cost: $20,000 -$100,000 per vehicle.

Lifespan: 8 - 15years.

Maintenance: Battery and electrical system maintenance.

6. Alternative Fuels(Biodiesel & Renewable Diesel)

Function: Uses bio-based fuels for cleaner combustion.

Emissions Reduction:

- Carbon Dioxide (CO₂): 50-80%

- Nitrogen Oxides (NOx): 5-15% (Note: Biodiesel may slightly increase NOx; renewable diesel does not)

- Particulate Matter (PM): 20-50%

Cost: Minimal if vehicle is compatible.

Lifespan: No significant impact on vehicle lifespan.

Maintenance: Fuel system cleaning and filter changes may be required.

7. Hydrogen Injection Systems

Function: Enhances combustion efficiency by injecting hydrogen.

Emissions Reduction:

- Carbon Dioxide (CO₂): 10-30%

- Nitrogen Oxides (NOx): 30-70%

- Particulate Matte r(PM): 20-50%

Cost: $5,000 -$15,000 per vehicle.

Lifespan: 150,000 - 400,000 miles. May void vehicle warranty.

Maintenance: Requires hydrogen refueling infrastructure.

8. Carbon Cutter Device

Function: Improves combustion efficiency, engine power, and lowers emissions through increased turbulence.

Emissions Reduction: (Note results vary per vehicle model - results shown based on limited test sample)

- Hydrocarbons (HC): 50-90%

- Nitrogen Oxides (NOx): 30-70%

- CO2: 20-30%

- Particulate Matter (PM): 30-75%

Cost: Approximately $50 per vehicle.

Lifespan: 200,000 to 500,000 miles

Maintenance: Periodic inspections and potential cleaning.

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9. Conclusion

When considering the above options, it is also vital to remain informed about the latest developments in emissions reduction technologies and to seek out reputable sources of information. Vehicle owners should consult with manufacturers and qualified technicians to understand the best options for their specific circumstances.

Ultimately, the responsibility of mitigating transport emissions does not rest solely on the shoulders of individuals. It requires collective efforts from governments, industries, and communities. However, by staying informed and taking proactive steps, individuals can make a substantial impact on reducing their own carbon footprint and contributing to a healthier, more sustainable planet.

This article incorporates the latest data and peer-reviewed research, adhering to the proprietary Bio-spheric Information Reliability Index methodology (BIRI) to ensure the accuracy and reliability of the information provided.

We encourage readers to engage in the ongoing dialogue around sustainable transportation and to share any new findings or suggestions for the continuous improvement of this resource. Your contributions are invaluable in our collective effort to address the challenges posed by climate change.

10. References:

1. ISO 50001Energy management, International Organization for Standardization, https://www.iso.org/iso-50001-energy-management.html (BIRI 10)

2. National Energy Transition Roadmap, Ministry of Energy and Natural Resources Malaysia, https://ekonomi.gov.my/sites/default/files/2023-08/National%20Energy%20Transition%20Roadmap.pdf (BIRI 8)

3. Diesel Particulate Matters, https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/ambient-(outdoor)-air-quality-and-health

(Reference from U.S. Environmental Protection Agency is no longer available, https://www.epa.gov/diesel-particulate-matter)

4. Selective Catalytic Reduction, https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Selective_catalytic_reduction

(reference from U.S. Environmental Protection Agency is no longer available, (BIRI 7) https://www.epa.gov/scr )

5. Exhaust Gas Recirculation,"https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Exhaust_gas_recirculation (BIRI 4)

(reference from U.S. Environmental Protection Agency is no longer available, (BIRI 7) https://www.epa.gov/egr)

6. Diesel Oxidation Catalyst, https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Catalytic_converter#Diesel_Oxidation_Catalyst‍

(reference U.S. Environmental Protection Agency is no longer available, https://www.epa.gov/doc (BIRI 7))

7. Hybrid and Electric Vehicles, U.S. Department of Energy, https://www.energy.gov/eere/vehicles/hybrid-and-plug-electric-vehicles (BIRI 7)

8. Alternative Fuels Data Center, U.S. Department of Energy, https://www.afdc.energy.gov/fuels/biodiesel_benefits.html (BIRI 7)

9. Hydrogen Injection Systems, Borg Warner System https://www.borgwarner.com/newsroom/press-releases/2022/02/15/borgwarner-s-hydrogen-injection-system-supports-co2-free-mobility-for-off-road-application (BIRI 5)

10. Reducing Emissions through Improved Combustion, Energy Efficiency & Renewable Energy, U.S. Department of Energy, https://www.energy.gov/eere/vehicles/vehicle-technologies-office (BIRI 7)

11. Wikipedia: Diesel Particulate Filters: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diesel_particulate_filter (Biri 4)

12. Wikipedia: Selective Catalytic Reduction: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Selective_catalytic_reduction (Biri 4)

13. Black Carbon -Control Technologies: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Black_carbon#Control_technologies (Biri 4)

14. Electric School Buses: https://www.vox.com/climate/370006/school-bus-electric-transportation-ev (Biri 3)

15. Biodiesel -Emissions: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Biodiesel#Emissions (Biri 4)

16. Hydrogen Internal Combustion Engine: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hydrogen_internal_combustion_engine_vehicle (Biri 4)

17. Engine Ecology Inc. provided information - Philippine Department of Science & Technology Environmental Technology Verification testing report: https://app.box.com/s/2mkyiu3avlkonxdtrrn2cabwydmg440j (Biri 5)

18. Engine Ecology Inc. provided information -Carbon Cutter Device background information - https://www.linkedin.com/company/engineecophils/ (BIRI 5)