CARBON CREDIT MARKET IN THE MOBILITY SECTOR: OPPORTUNITIES IN THE BRAZILIAN CONTEXT

Abstract

The transportation sector is one of the largest emitters of greenhouse gases, contributing to climate change. Numerous initiatives have been adopted worldwide to reduce the emission of these gases, including the carbon credit market. The objective of this study was to review and contextualize mobility and pathways for transitioning to a low-carbon economy. The research was conducted using national and international databases and organizations related to the carbon credit market. Studies, reports, and documents were selected based on the following criteria: Materials related to mobility, sustainability, and carbon credit themes; in English, Portuguese, or French up until November 2022. The analysis of the information identified that life cycle analysis calculation methodologies are predominantly focused on nature, with little published about the transportation sector. Companies still need to incorporate environmental performance management through greenhouse gas emission inventories and evolve towards life cycle analysis of their products and services. In the global scenario, road vehicles account for 77% of the global carbon emissions from transportation (34% being heavy vehicles). Heavy vehicles disproportionately contribute more to the warming potential due to particle emissions. In conclusion, there is no single solution for the decarbonization of the transportation sector in Brazil; a combination of fleet renewal, biofuels, and improvements in the efficiency of the existing fleet, such as the electrification of the second axle of heavy vehicles, are essential to achieve Brazilian goals.