In 2019 (last “normal” year, understand “without-covid” for which we have complete data), the world had emitted 38 billion tonnes of CO2 (Mt CO2) according to official sources. Of these, the European Union issued 2.94, or around 7.7%. Road transport accounts for approximately 20% of European CO2 emissions, or 0.59 Mt CO2. Cars and light commercial vehicles, the two classes of vehicles targeted by the ban on internal combustion engines, represent 71.6% of these transport-related emissions, or 0.42 Mt CO2. A quick calculation therefore allows us to estimate that this decision will allow a reduction of… 1.1% of CO2 emissions on a global scale!
And once more, only when the entire European rolling stock has given up on oil. Not in 2035 therefore, nor in 2036 when niche brands will also be affected. But maybe 20 or 30 years later, at best. Knowing that – barring a new European decision which would completely prohibit its use – a few diehards will continue to run their “petrol” cars.
If in the fight once morest global warming every gesture counts, we are still far, very far, from the “historic decision for the climate”, all the more so if we consider the additional energy necessary for the construction of electric cars.
