As an analyst at a Policy Think Tank (choose one between Brookings Institute, Center for American Progress, Rand Corporation, or Heritage Foundation), you must write a research article on whether US automobile makers should tackle climate change issues. For the article you must conduct analysis about the impact to Global Warning and Greenhouse gases that the Big Three US automobile manufacturers contribute and whether they should seek to mitigate. Your analysis must consider the pros and cons of Electrical Vehicle (EV) manufacturing and make recommendations about whether your assigned company should reduce, continue or expand production of EVs in place of fossil-fuel powered vehicles. The impetus for this article is to summarize how EV production by US automobile manufacturers impact climate change and to publish an article on whether the EV production by US manufacturers should be continued at same levels, expanded, or reduced. The period of study is from 2010 to present.
Brookings Institute, Center for American Progress, Rand Corporation, or Heritage Foundation
Full Answer Section
The Big Three's Contribution to Global Warming (2010-Present) The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) reports that transportation is the largest source of GHG emissions in the country, accounting for 27% in 2022. Light-duty vehicles, dominated by the Big Three, are a major contributor within this sector. According to industry reports, the Big Three produced a combined total of over 140 million gasoline-powered vehicles from 2010 to 2022. These vehicles emit significant amounts of carbon dioxide (CO2), a key GHG, throughout their lifespans. Electric Vehicles: A Path Toward Decarbonization? EVs offer a compelling alternative, producing zero tailpipe emissions. A 2022 study by the Union of Concerned Scientists found that even accounting for battery production and electricity generation, EVs have a significantly lower carbon footprint over their lifetime compared to gasoline vehicles. However, EV production isn't without environmental impact. Battery manufacturing can be energy-intensive, and mining for raw materials like lithium raises concerns about environmental degradation and ethical sourcing. Weighing the Options: Pros and Cons of EV Production Pros:- Reduced GHG Emissions:EVs have the potential to significantly decrease transportation emissions, contributing to climate change mitigation efforts.
- Energy Independence:EVs lessen reliance on fossil fuels, promoting energy security and potentially reducing dependence on foreign oil.
- Innovation:Increased focus on EVs drives innovation in battery technology, manufacturing processes, and renewable energy sources.
- Battery Production:The environmental impact of battery production, including energy consumption and potential pollution, needs to be addressed.
- Critical Materials:Mining for resources like lithium raises concerns about sustainability and ethical sourcing practices.
- Charging Infrastructure:Building a robust charging infrastructure is crucial for widespread EV adoption.
- Expand EV Production:While acknowledging the environmental concerns of battery production, the long-term benefits of reduced tailpipe emissions outweigh these concerns. However, this expansion should be done responsibly, focusing on:
- Sustainable Battery Manufacturing:Investing in clean energy sources to power battery production and exploring alternative battery chemistries with lower environmental impact.
- Ethical Sourcing:Collaborating with suppliers to ensure responsible and ethical mining practices for battery materials.
- Invest in Charging Infrastructure:Partnering with governments and utilities to accelerate the build-out of a nationwide charging network is essential for consumer adoption of EVs.
- Maintain Transparency:Automakers should disclose the environmental impact of their vehicles throughout their lifecycles, including both production and operation.
Sample Answer
Should U.S. Automakers Shift Gears on Electric Vehicles? An Analysis by the Center for American Progress
Introduction
Climate change is an undeniable threat, and the transportation sector is a significant contributor to greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions in the United States. As policymakers and consumers grapple with solutions, the role of electric vehicles (EVs) and the responsibility of U.S. automakers come into sharp focus. This research article, conducted by the Center for American Progress, analyzes the impact of the Big Three (Ford, General Motors, Chrysler) on climate change through their production of gasoline-powered vehicles and explores the environmental implications of EV manufacturing. We assess the pros and cons of EV production and make recommendations on the future direction of EV production by U.S. automakers.