Last updated: 20.10.2023

<aside> 💡 High-Level Description:

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has formulated a specific approach for addressing carbon emissions from mobile combustion sources, which include various transportation means such as cars, trucks, buses, trains, ships, and planes. This sector presents unique challenges for carbon calculation due to the diversity of vehicle types, fuel qualities, and operating conditions. The EPA's methodology hinges on the 'bottom-up' approach, utilizing direct measurement of fuel consumption. Each fuel type's carbon intensity, coupled with the volume consumed, provides the basis for these calculations.

Critical to the EPA's methodology is the consideration of vehicle miles traveled (VMT) and fuel efficiency standards. Different vehicle categories and service conditions significantly impact fuel consumption rates and, consequently, CO2 emissions. By aggregating data from across the sector, including variations in fuel type, engine efficiency, and operational practices (like idling, speed, and load), the EPA can generate a more comprehensive estimation of emissions. This method's precision supports informed policy-making, helping to drive innovations in fuel efficiency and the broader transition to low-carbon transportation options.

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Equation

co2_in_g = amount * co2_in_g_per_unit

API request

{
  "expand": [
    "items"
  ],
  "items": [
    {
      "type": "mobile_combustion",
      "methodology": "EPA",
      "external_reference": "string",
      "fuel_type": "motor_gasoline",
      "volume_in_gallons": 643
    }
  ]
}

Bibliography