Quantifying Carbon Emission Reduction by Adopting Electric Vehicles Using a Smart Device

Abstract

Deforestation and population growth have significantly impacted the environment and quality of life, with internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles emitting greenhouse gases like CO2 and CO. Tailpipe emissions account for 24% of global air pollution. Sustainable solutions are crucial to limit global temperature increases to below 2°C above pre-industrial levels, aligning with the Paris Agreement’s objectives. This study focuses on developing a smart metering device to quantify carbon emission reductions achieved through electric vehicle (EV) adoption. Employing Verified Carbon Standards (VCS) methodologies, the device translates these reductions into tradable carbon credits. The key novelty lies in real-time monitoring and precise emissions quantification using a microcontroller-based system integrated with IoT platforms for cloud-based analytics. The methodology involves measuring energy consumption, determining baseline and project emissions, and implementing an efficient metering topology to ensure accurate calculations. The system was validated through a pilot study in collaboration with Kerala State Electricity Board Limited, utilizing a TATA Nexon EV as a test case. This approach addresses the critical need for scalable and reliable emissions monitoring to bridge gaps in carbon accounting. By quantifying the environmental benefits of EV adoption, the project supports national policies promoting sustainable transportation and aligns with global climate goals under the Paris Agreement. Additionally, the study proposes a framework for standardizing methodologies to evaluate socio-environmental benefits, fostering alignment with net-zero emission targets. This innovative solution provides policymakers, industries, and researchers with a robust tool to incentivize carbon trading and accelerate the transition to low-carbon transportation systems.