Brazil low carbon case study : technical synthesis report - transport

This study aims to underpin Brazil's efforts to explore methods for reducing total emissions of greenhouse gases (GHGs) arising from all areas of human activity. More specifically, this study seeks to highlight low-carbon alternatives for Brazil´s transport sector. These alternatives could contribute positively to the world's climate, as well as benefit Brazil's socio-economic development. The technical inputs for evaluating potential carbon emissions reduction will be submitted to the Brazilian government to assist it in the design and deployment of joint planning strategies in key sectors, including transport. To ensure that the study targets the most important areas, it adopts an overarching approach. CO2 results from the combustion of any material containing carbon, including fossil fuels such as oil, coal and natural gas, which consist of long chains of hydrocarbons and are widely used for electricity generation and transport purposes. Industrial activities such as metallurgy, steel and cement manufacturing also produce large amounts of CO2. Changes in land use caused by forest fires during or after the process of deforestation are also responsible for CO2 emissions, since the loss of forest cover releases some of the carbon stored in the soil and dead vegetation. Brazil's contribution to global CO2 emissions is substantial due to forest burning, and halting biomass burning should certainly be a national priority. The results for the transport sector, calculated using the methodological approach and criteria outlined in the introductory paragraphs, are presented in this report as follows: chapter one is a general overview of the transport situation in Brazil, its evolution and impacts, highlighting specific issues related to GHGs; chapter two describes the methodology employed in the study; in chapters three and four analyzes possible strategies that could be considered for reducing GHGs in the transport sector; and finally, chapter five presents the main conclusions, suggesting possible policies and strategies for Brazil to pursue.