Major CO2 Emissions Reduction in India’s Transport Sector

A recent study by the World Resources Institute (WRI) India reveals that India could cut carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions from its transport sector by up to 71% by 2050 if it adopts high-ambition strategies across three key areas: electrification, improved fuel economy standards, and cleaner modes of transport.

Key Points

Current Emissions: The transport sector was responsible for 14% of India's total energy-related CO2 emissions in 2020. There is an urgent need for a comprehensive emission reduction roadmap and targets for this sector.
High-Ambition Strategies: Implementing strategies to electrify vehicles, enhance fuel economy, and shift to cleaner transport modes simultaneously can lead to a 71% reduction in CO2 emissions by 2050, compared to a business-as-usual (BAU) scenario.
Cost-Effectiveness: Decarbonizing both freight and passenger transport is considered the most cost-effective approach, with potential savings of Rs. 12,118 per tonne of CO2 equivalent (tCO2e) abated.
Electric Vehicles (EVs): Expanding EV sales is identified as the most effective strategy for CO2 emissions reduction, with an annual abatement potential of 121 million tonnes of CO2 equivalent (MtCO2e). Complementary decarbonization of electricity generation could further support this goal.
Renewable Electricity: Adopting a carbon-free electricity standard—where 75% of electricity comes from renewable sources—could enhance the impact of electrification strategies, leading to a 75% reduction in emissions by 2050 compared to the BAU scenario.
Future Trends: Without significant changes, fossil fuel consumption in the transport sector is expected to quadruple by 2050. Passenger travel demand is projected to triple, and freight travel demand is expected to increase sevenfold.