格拉坦研究所-走向零排放：减少交通排放的切实可行的政策（英）-2021.7-41页_7mb

Summary of "Towards Net Zero: Practical Policies to Reduce Transport Emissions"

Core Content

This report by Grattan Institute outlines practical policies to reduce transport emissions in Australia, aiming to support the country's goal of achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2050. It emphasizes the need for a combination of sector-specific, technology-driven policies due to the political unfeasibility of implementing a single, economy-wide carbon price at this time.

Transport emissions in Australia have grown significantly over the past decade, increasing from 82 million tonnes in 2005 to 101 million tonnes in 2019. While the pandemic caused a sharp drop in 2020, emissions are expected to rebound, reaching 100 million tonnes by 2030. To meet net-zero by 2050, emissions from the transport sector must decline by 5 million tonnes annually in the 2030s and 2040s.

The light vehicle fleet (cars and light commercial vehicles) is the largest contributor to transport emissions, responsible for 62% of total transport emissions in 2019. These vehicles are expected to make minimal progress in emissions reduction by 2030 unless policy action is taken. The report recommends transitioning the entire light vehicle fleet to zero-emissions vehicles (mainly battery electric vehicles) by 2035 to set an end date for the sale of new petrol and diesel vehicles.

Main Recommendations

1. Implement a National Fleet Emissions Standard

• Set a national standard for new light vehicles that tightens to zero emissions by 2035.
• This would signal an end to the sale of new petrol and diesel light vehicles, aligning with international standards and the International Energy Agency's advice.

2. Remove Inefficient Taxes and Regulations

• Exempt zero-emissions vehicles from import duties, luxury car tax, and motor vehicle stamp duty.
• Waive luxury car tax on zero-emissions vehicles for the rest of the decade.
• Increase the truck width limit to match the US standard to allow for easier adaptation of zero-emissions heavy vehicles from overseas markets.

3. Prepare Infrastructure for EVs

• Update the National Construction Code to require electrical cabling in new buildings with off-street parking.
• Ensure leased dwellings with off-street parking have electrical outlets near each car space by 2030.
• Plan for convenient, local vehicle charging by 2030 for all residents, even those without off-street parking.
• Reform electricity tariffs to enable smart management of vehicle charging.

4. Test and Support Alternative Technologies

• Support targeted trials of zero-emissions trucks, especially hydrogen trucks, to evaluate their performance in Australia.
• Develop national standards and certification for renewable hydrocarbons (such as biofuels and waste-based fuels) based on emissions intensity.
• Establish a renewable fuel standard requiring fuel wholesalers and retailers to blend small amounts of renewable hydrocarbons into fuels by 2025, increasing the target over time.

Key Information

• Transport Emissions in 2020: 101 million tonnes.
• Expected Emissions by 2030: 100 million tonnes.
• Light Vehicles: Account for 62% of transport emissions in 2019 and 12% of Australia's total emissions.
• Zero-Emissions Vehicles: Mainly battery electric vehicles (BEVs), with fuel cell electric vehicles (FCEVs) also being considered.
• Fleet Replacement Time: Over 20 years, meaning vehicles sold in the 2030s could still be on the road in 2050.
• Emissions Budget: Australia must avoid emitting more than the global carbon budget allows, which requires significant and sustained reductions.
• Need for Momentum: Early action on emissions reductions in the light vehicle sector will ease pressure on other transport modes like aviation and long-distance trucking.
• Role of Policy: Governments must take the lead in setting policies to reduce emissions, as the market alone is insufficient.

Conclusion

The report argues that while a carbon price is the most efficient way to reduce emissions, it is currently politically unfeasible in Australia. Therefore, a sector-specific approach is necessary to build momentum towards net-zero. By focusing on the light vehicle fleet, which is the largest source of transport emissions, and supporting the transition to zero-emissions vehicles, Australia can make meaningful progress. The report provides a roadmap for immediate and long-term actions that can help align the transport sector with the country's net-zero goal by 2050.