Influence of diesel vehicles on the biosphere

Abstract

Purpose. To identify environmental climatic impacts resulting from the biodiesel fuel use for vehicles (Vs). Methodology. The methods are based on computation of natural resource consumption and toxic emission with the help of environmental footprint calculator being a software program. Findings. The results of integral assessment of the environmental impact (namely, consumption of water, power, natural resources, and emission of greenhouse gases 2, and NOx in terms of such base traction trucks as VOLVO FM, FH, FE, and FL) were computed for biodiesel fuel types 0, 7, 30, 100 depending upon different standards of EURO propellants. Both positive and negative environmental impact factors have been determined for consuming biofuels during full lifecycle of Vs. It has been defined that minor decrease in 2 emission owing to the use of standard modern biodiesel fuel is followed by significant increase in NOx emission as well as power and water consumption in terms of first-generation biodiesel fuel utilization. VOLVO F Vs were applied for comparative analysis of environmental impact by first-generation biodiesel fuel (i.e. 7, 30, 100) and second-generation fuel being hydrotreated vegetable oil (HVO). Similar tendencies were recognized. Moreover, opportunity to apply biodiesel fuels along with other measures decreasing 2 emission was analyzed. Originality. Originality is stipulated by the use of the integrated assessment of impact of vehicles on climate change as well as use of natural resources while applying biodiesel fuel for vehicles. Practical value. It is possible to forecast environmental consequences resulting from the use of various biodiesel fuels for Vs.