As the human population on Earth keeps growing, our atmosphere is rapidly changing. Electric transportation may be an essential solution to reduce greenhouse gases and pollution.
Environmental Changes Over Millions of Years
Earth and its inhabitants have changed significantly throughout time. In the last 200 years, human activities have dramatically increased the amount of greenhouse gases in our atmosphere. During this time the earth’s global temperature has also increased. Today, the human population continues to grow with advances in manufacturing, agriculture, and healthcare. However, we are using natural resources at a faster rate than our planet can renew them.
What Actions Do We Need to Take
We can help reduce the global amount of greenhouse gases when we change our personal behaviors. Locally, 65% of greenhouse gases are from transportation use, and 14% comes from our food production. During the lockdown, our emissions decreased significantly. Scientists predict that our global carbon and nitrous oxide emissions will decline by 7% at the end of this year. By making a transition to electrically powered vehicles, we can continue to reduce unwanted gases in our atmosphere.
Electrical Vehicles (EVs) on the Market
Over just the past decade, the availability and affordability of electric vehicles (EVs) have increased significantly. Some readily accessible models include the Nissan Leaf, Kia Niro, Tesla Model 3 and Model Y, and Chevy Bolt. There are also electrically operated tractors, trucks, buses, and bikes. More charging stations are being built across Oregon so that folks can recharge their vehicles while they are away from home. The internal components of EVs are known for being radically simpler and easier to clean. They start and stop instantly and have among the highest safety ratings.
Electric Transportation for Lane Transit District
Lane Transit District is working on buying electric buses for its fleet. After experimenting with using an electric bus they plan on buying 11 of them, which will replace 13-14% of the buses they use. They’ve also been using the EmGo, a small electric shuttle, to transport folks around downtown.
Electrify Your Transportation
For many, investing in electric transportation feels like a big leap. It can be helpful to take a stepwise approach if you want to transition to an EV. A first step you can take is not to buy a new gasoline-powered vehicle. If you can’t buy an electric vehicle immediately, invest in an older gasoline-powered car. Another step to take is to keep track of your daily mileage. Once you know how many miles you drive, you’ll have a better idea of what sort of EV you’ll need.
Finally, learn as much as you can from current EV drivers. You can also check out an assortment of resources and references online. A few of these are cleantechnica.com, pluginamerica.org, plugstar.com, and electricauto.org. You can also learn more by contacting Emerald Valley Electric Vehicle Association at contact@Evava.org