A comparative analysis of energy consumption and GHG emission by the private vehicles of different fuel types in Dhaka, Bangladesh

Abstract

Bangladesh has experienced escalating GDP growth over the last decade, which has upgraded its economic status to an emerging one. This economic growth resulted in a high standard of living and a preference for using private vehicles for daily commuting in the capital city of Dhaka, which accommodates prestigious government establishments and corporate offices. Emissions from private vehicles have alarming impacts on the environment and its inhabitants, making Dhaka one of the lowest air quality indices. This aspect led to an investigation of air pollution in Dhaka City by private vehicles. A survey was conducted on private vehicles to obtain data that would lead to analyzing fuel consumption, energy requirement, and carbon dioxide emission in car models and manufacturing years with a sample size that assures 95% accuracy. The data analysis based on the survey unravels the fact that the vehicles reliant on gasoline on the roads of Dhaka city are causing lesser GHG emissions than those that primarily depend on CNG for locomotion. The low price of CNG entices the owners to choose bi-fuel system vehicles, which causes increased GHG emissions and questions sustainability.