Carbon emissions, nonrenewable energy, climate change—these are terms often used to convince us to be more conscious about our petroleum consumption. The basic rationale for this is that more cars lead to greater gas consumption thereby increasing carbon emissions and, in the end, aggravating an already seriously affected global climate. For those who can, carpooling or taking mass transportation is definitely the better, smarter option.
In the case of air pollutant generation, a smaller vehicle does not necessarily mean lesser emissions. One dirty carbureted tricycle produces the pollution equivalent of 50 modern automobiles.* Carbureted tricycles emit more air pollutants (particulates, hydrocarbons, carbon monoxide) than gasoline cars.*
Here in the Loyola Schools, the shift towards a more ecologically sustainable campus will now be taken to the streets as the Ateneo Environmental Management Coalition introduces the pilot run of the Ateneo Electric Tricycle (e-Trike).
E-Trikes are powered by an electric motor, rather than a combustion engine. Thus, they have zero emissions and generate almost no noise making them a more appropriate choice of public transport vehicle within the school. In addition, the comparatively low cost of operations and maintenance makes it a more economically viable source of income for tricycle drivers and operators.
E-Trikes will be launched this December 7 (Monday), 8:30 am at Xavier Hall. All rides on the e-Trike will be given for free on its launching day. For more information and updates on the e-Trike project add us on facebook:
Ateneo e-Trike.
*All data taken from “Partnering for a Clean and Green Philippines” presentation by E-Save Transportation System, Inc.
