Assessment of Vehicular Greenhouse Gas Emissions and Potentials for Reduction in A University Campus: Case Study of Bayero University Kano

Abstract

Globally, the transport sector is responsible for the emission of 30% of all anthropogenic greenhouse gases (GHGs) which are the main reason behind the change in the climate and accelerated warming of the globe. This research estimated the emission of GHGs from vehicles in Bayero University, Kano and also established the pattern of vehicular GHG emissions on the campus taking into consideration the peculiarities of the transport systems on Nigerian university campuses. Data for the study were collected by issuing out questionnaires to residents of the campus and then manually enumerating the number and types of vehicles entering the campus through its main entrance. Using standard guidelines for estimation of emission of GHGs, the campus’ vehicular carbon footprint was estimated and its pattern of emission established. It was found that the total annual vehicular GHGs emission for the campus is 2,360.22tCO2e, with motorcycles, sedans, buses, tricycles and trucks having 21.2%, 43.2%, 30.5%, 2% and 2.2% share of the emission respectively. Scenarios for reduction of emission on the campus were simulated, it was found that the use of bicycles in place of motorcycles and compressed natural gas buses in place of the conventional diesel and petrol powered ones have a potential of reducing emissions on the campus by 21% and 26% respectively. It was suggested that measures to curtail usage of private cars and motorcycles on the campus be introduced so as to make the transport sector sustainable and set the campus on the path to carbon neutrality.

Keywords

• Carbon footprint
• Emission factor
• Emission reduction
• Global warming
• Greenhouse gases
• Transportation

References

1. Dr Abubakar Danjuma Maiwada Centre for Renewable Energy Research, Bayero University Kano, PMB 3011 NIGERIA [e-mail]