Welcome to the Methodology page, where we dive into the details of the calculations powering our carbon emissions analysis. In a world increasingly focused on environmental sustainability, understanding and mitigating our carbon footprint is essential. Here, we outline the methodologies behind our calculations, providing transparency and insight into how we measure carbon emissions. For a comprehensive understanding, we offer a detailed paper outlining our complete methodology, accessible through the link below.
In Norway, bus transportation is administered through a collaboration between different companies: Vygruppen AS, Ruter (Oslo and surroundings), NOR-WAY Buseekpress (Southern Norway), Kolumbus (Rogaland region) and Skyss (public transportation operator in Horaland). All of them follow Euro 6 (EU regulation that sets stricter limits on emissions) and the SDG. However, due to the absence of environmental impact that from most of the companies regarding their transportations services, it will be incorporated data furnished by Vy and in this case, the electric bus factor emission is directly extracted: $$ CO2 = d \cdot fe $$
Nowadays, there are many factors that influence the quantity of CO2 emitted by this vehicle such as: fuel, vehicle weight and load, engine efficiency (depends on model), vehicle maintenance, driving style and traffic and route conditions. Therefore, the factor emission chosen will be the most suitable according to all the factors mentioned before. According to Statistsk sentralbyrå (SBB), [ Appendix 2] this constant is standardized by each type of fuel and by the weight of the load. For general use, the factor chose it’s for touring cars. Thus, it will be considered the number of passengers for this calculation (p). $$ CO2 = \frac{d \cdot fe}{p} $$
Despite the fact that motorcycles can use diesel, most motorcycles in Norway are powered by gas. Therefore, it will be considered exclusively gas and electricity. On one hand, the data will be extracted from SBB [Appendix 2] and on the other hand, the energy consumption will be excerpted from it. As it happens with the car, this vehicle will be affected by many factors like the ones mentioned in the paragraph before. Therefore, the factors chosen are generalized and standardized. Moreover, in this case, the number of passengers will be considered between 1 and 2 passengers so the client will have to choose between both. $$ CO2 = \frac{d \cdot fe}{p} $$
As with buses, in Norway there are various companies that manage the train network: Vy, SJ Norge, Go-Ahead Nordic and Skyss. Likewise, the data source used will be furnished by Vy giving a direct factor emission for the trains: $$ CO2 = I \cdot Ec $$
In light of our setting in Norway, where ferries are an integral component of the public transport system, it is of interest for the Norwegian population to understand the CO2 emission of this means of transport even the fact that in the rest of Europe it doesn’t have the same impact. Norway has a strict regulation about greenhouse gas emitted by ferries normally
Norway's unique geography, characterized by extensive mountains, fjords, and scattered islands, renders air travel a vital component of its system. It provides connectivity between distant and remote regions that lacks other means of transport. Regarding CO2 emissions the analysis is critical for a main reason: it significantly impacts the environment as it’s still the major source of greenhouse gas emissions, even though Norway is betting on better alternatives such as electric aircraft and cleaner aviation fuels. Thus, evaluating CO2 emissions from air travel is essential for Norway's progression towards a more sustainable and environmentally responsible future. All airplanes are powered by kerosine, however, it can be treated separately according to the distance traveled:
Electric scooters are getting importance due to their potential to
address urban mobility challenges. While cities worldwide grapple with
issues such as congestion, pollution, and last-mile connectivity,
electric scooters offer a sustainable and convenient solution. Despite
not emitting CO2 directly during operation, it's crucial to consider
their environmental impact, especially in terms of the source of
electricity used to charge their batteries. Their compact size, ease
of use, and emission-free operation make them attractive alternatives
to traditional modes of transportation. Moreover, the rise of shared
electric scooter services has democratized access to this mode of
transport, further amplifying its impact. With increasing emphasis on
sustainable urban mobility, electric scooters are poised to play a
significant role in shaping the future of transportation. $$ CO2 = I
\cdot Ec $$
Although walking and cycling don’t emit any greenhouse gas emissions,
this option will be also included in the development of the App as it
can be used to contrast the distance traveled and the emissions with
the other means of transport.