Diesel Exhaust Fluid Market Share

Diesel Exhaust Fluid Market Share Analysis

Greenhouse gases (GHGs) present in the atmosphere contribute to global warming and impact the ozone layer, which shields the Earth from harmful solar radiation. Major GHGs include carbon dioxide (CO2), methane (CH4), nitrous oxide (N2O), and various fluorinated gases. The burning of fossil fuels, primarily from the transportation sector, releases CO2 into the atmosphere. Outdoor air pollution, a significant consequence of GHG emissions, is linked to approximately 4.2 million premature deaths globally, with black carbon (BC) being a major contributor. The transportation sector alone accounted for 29% of global GHG emissions in 2017, as reported by the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Recognizing the environmental impact, organizations worldwide have implemented regulations to curb exhaust emissions.

Energy consumption in the transportation sector, especially on roadways, constitutes a substantial portion, reaching 82%, according to the European Union (EU). Vehicular emissions significantly contribute to GHG emissions, prompting governments to enforce stringent norms. In the EU and EEA member states, exhaust emission standards, such as Euro 1 through Euro 6 for light-duty vehicles and Euro I through Euro VI for heavy-duty vehicles, have been established. These regulations set limits on pollutants emitted by new vehicles, ensuring a reduction in GHG emissions over time.

Similar to the EU, the US EPA and the California Air Resources Board have devised regulations addressing GHG emissions, with specific standards for CARB states. States following CARB standards, like California, have stricter emission regulations than federal standards, driving a collaborative effort to establish national standards. The Clean Air Act Amendment of 1990 outlines emission standards for lightweight vehicles, limiting pollutants like oxides of nitrogen (NOx), carbon monoxide (CO), particulate matter (PM), non-methane organic gases (NMOG), non-methane hydrocarbons (NMHC), and formaldehyde (HCHO).

In 2007, the US EPA prohibited gasoline models for heavy vehicles, permitting only diesel models. Moreover, the road sector's energy consumption has led the EU to impose stringent regulations for passenger cars and Light Commercial Vehicles (LCVs). Meanwhile, in the US, states can either adhere to federal regulations or adopt California emission standards under Section 177 of the Clean Air Act. States seeking more rigorous emission standards, aligning with air quality goals, have chosen to adopt California standards. The most recent state to do so was Colorado in 2018, emphasizing the ongoing efforts to combat GHG emissions through regulatory frameworks.