Environmental assessment of road transport in Qatar and its policy implications: current emissions and future reduction projections
File(s)
Author(s)
Alishaq, Abdulla
Type
Thesis
Abstract
This thesis evaluates Qatar's road transport sector, its policies and their effectiveness in reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. It aims to facilitate a transition to a sustainable, low-carbon transport system by 2050. The study is structured around three principal components: an analysis of existing road transport policies in Qatar and the projected impact of internal combustion engine vehicle (ICEV) ban scenarios enacted in 2030, 2035, and 2040; a comparative life cycle assessment (LCA) of battery electric vehicles (BEVs) versus ICEVs; and, the application of a carbon calculator to evaluate the potential CO2-equivalent (CO2-eq) impact of a range of mitigation measures and initiatives.
Utilizing a multifaceted methodological approach that includes scenario analysis, dynamic LCA, and the strategic use of a carbon calculator tool, this research assesses the implications of Qatar's road transport policies on GHG emissions. The scenario analysis reveals that an early 2030 ICEV ban would reduce cumulative CO2-eq road emissions by 34% in 2050 compared to the business-as-usual (BAU) scenario, while delays until 2035 and 2040 would result in 28% and 23% reductions, respectively. The LCA findings highlight the advantages of BEVs in terms of global warming potential and fossil resource consumption, although they currently face challenges related to mineral resource scarcity. The carbon calculator analysis shows that maintaining current practices in Qatar's transportation sector would lead to a 54% increase in emissions by 2050 compared to 2022 levels. In contrast, implementing the highest ambition scenario could result in an 89% reduction in emissions over the same period.
Contributing to the global dialogue on sustainable development and climate change mitigation, this thesis offers strategic insights and recommendations for policymakers, researchers, and practitioners. It emphasizes the need for an integrated strategy that addresses the intricate interactions between policy, technology, and social behaviour in pursuit of a sustainable, low-carbon future.
Utilizing a multifaceted methodological approach that includes scenario analysis, dynamic LCA, and the strategic use of a carbon calculator tool, this research assesses the implications of Qatar's road transport policies on GHG emissions. The scenario analysis reveals that an early 2030 ICEV ban would reduce cumulative CO2-eq road emissions by 34% in 2050 compared to the business-as-usual (BAU) scenario, while delays until 2035 and 2040 would result in 28% and 23% reductions, respectively. The LCA findings highlight the advantages of BEVs in terms of global warming potential and fossil resource consumption, although they currently face challenges related to mineral resource scarcity. The carbon calculator analysis shows that maintaining current practices in Qatar's transportation sector would lead to a 54% increase in emissions by 2050 compared to 2022 levels. In contrast, implementing the highest ambition scenario could result in an 89% reduction in emissions over the same period.
Contributing to the global dialogue on sustainable development and climate change mitigation, this thesis offers strategic insights and recommendations for policymakers, researchers, and practitioners. It emphasizes the need for an integrated strategy that addresses the intricate interactions between policy, technology, and social behaviour in pursuit of a sustainable, low-carbon future.
Version
Open Access
Date Issued
2024-08-22
Date Awarded
01/11/2024
License URL
Advisor
Woods, Jeremy
Mehlig, Daniel
Mwabonje, Onesmus
Publisher Department
Centre for Environmental Policy
Publisher Institution
Imperial College London
Qualification Level
Doctoral
Qualification Name
Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)