Proposal To Convince Ford To Build Green Power Cars
Proposal to convince Ford Company build green power cars. Introduction Green power is considered as a renewable energy which represents resources and technologies that provide less harm to environment, such as electricity produced from wind, solar, and biomass.
Environmental degradation, climate change, and the adverse effects of greenhouse gases have become pressing global concerns, primarily driven by the extensive use of fossil fuels in transportation. This paper aims to advocate for the development of green power vehicles by Ford Motor Company, emphasizing the environmental, economic, and societal benefits of transitioning away from traditional gasoline and diesel-powered cars toward electric and biofuel alternatives. The focus will be on the environmental impacts of fossil fuels, advantages of biofuels and electric vehicles, and the strategic benefits for Ford in adopting green energy solutions.
Introduction
Background
Historically, the reliance on fossil fuels like gasoline and diesel has been integral to the automotive industry due to their cost efficiency and energy density. However, the environmental toll associated with these fuels is significant. The combustion of petroleum-based fuels releases substantial amounts of CO2, contributing to global warming and ozone depletion. Despite the economic efficiencies, the long-term environmental costs have prompted research into alternative energy sources. Biofuels derived from organic materials such as sugarcane and corn, along with electricity generated via renewable sources, are emerging as promising substitutes. These alternatives promise reduced greenhouse gas emissions and lessen environmental damage, but challenges such as production costs and technological adaptations remain.
Problem
The core problem revolves around the detrimental effects of fossil fuel consumption in transportation. The persistent emissions of CO2 and other pollutants result in climate change, environmental degradation, and health issues. Additionally, the economic reliance on fossil fuel production perpetuates environmental harm and exposes the automotive industry to future regulatory restrictions. The high environmental costs and the finite nature of fossil fuels necessitate urgent shifts toward cleaner, renewable energy sources in vehicle manufacturing.
Negative Effects of Using Fossil Fuels
The combustion of gasoline and diesel releases significant quantities of CO2, a primary driver of climate change (Marland & Rotty, 2017). Besides contributing to global warming, these emissions also lead to local air pollution, affecting public health. The extraction and refining processes further exacerbate environmental degradation through oil spills, habitat destruction, and energy consumption during production (Lim, 2018). Notably, the overdependence on fossil fuels accelerates resource depletion and undermines energy security.
Purpose
This paper intends to advocate for Ford Motor Company to develop and implement green power vehicles—specifically electric and biofuel-powered cars—thereby fostering environmental sustainability and providing economic benefits. By analyzing environmental impacts, advancements in renewable energy, and potential corporate advantages, this research aims to present a compelling case for Ford’s strategic transition towards green automotive innovations.
Scope
The scope encompasses an examination of the environmental impact of fossil fuels in transportation, the comparative benefits and disadvantages of biofuels and electric vehicles, and the potential strategic gains for Ford. It integrates analyses from scientific literature, industry reports, and environmental policy perspectives to portray a comprehensive view of the green energy automotive landscape.
Discussion
Problem Identification
The primary problem is the environmental degradation caused by fossil fuel combustion in the transportation sector. This includes high greenhouse gas emissions, air pollution, and resource depletion, which threaten global ecological stability and public health (SPEIGHT & RADOVANOVIĆ, 2015). While fossil fuels currently dominate automotive fuel sources due to cost and infrastructure, their long-term sustainability is questionable.
Solution
The transition towards electric vehicles (EVs) powered by renewable energy and biofuel-compatible engines offers a promising solution. Advancements in battery technology and renewable energy infrastructure have made EVs increasingly viable, with zero tailpipe emissions and reduced lifecycle emissions (Tagliaferri et al., 2016). Biofuels from organic waste or crops can serve as renewable liquid fuels, decreasing dependency on fossil fuels and lowering emissions (Tilman et al., 2009). Policymakers, industry players, and consumers must collaborate to enhance infrastructure, reduce costs, and promote environmental awareness.
Company Benefits
For Ford, investing in green power vehicles aligns with corporate social responsibility and sustainability goals, enhancing brand reputation and opening new market segments. Transitioning to electric and biofuel vehicles can lead to compliance with evolving environmental regulations, potential tax incentives, and access to government grants (Energy Information Administration, 2018). Moreover, early adoption of green automotive technology positions Ford as a leader in the future automotive industry, potentially increasing market share and profitability.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the detrimental impact of fossil fuels on the environment and climate underscores the urgent need for the automotive industry to adopt sustainable energy sources. Electric and biofuel-powered vehicles present viable alternatives that can significantly reduce CO2 emissions, improve air quality, and mitigate climate change. Ford's proactive investment in green power cars can yield substantial environmental benefits, enhance corporate reputation, and provide economic advantages. The transition towards renewable energy in transportation is not only an environmental necessity but also a strategic opportunity for industry leadership in sustainable innovation.
Recommendations
It is recommended that Ford accelerate research and development in electric vehicle technology, expand infrastructure for charging stations powered by renewable energy, and establish collaborations with biofuel producers. Additionally, the company should lobby for favorable policies, subsidies, and incentives that support green automotive initiatives. Consumer education campaigns emphasizing the environmental and economic advantages of green vehicles are also crucial to facilitate market acceptance. By adopting these strategies, Ford can lead the automotive industry toward a sustainable future.
References
- Energy Information Administration. (2018, November 13). Gasoline and biodiesel fuel updates. https://www.eia.gov/
- GreenFacts: Facts on Health and The Environment. (2018). Retrieved from https://www.greenfacts.org/
- Lim, A. (2018). The ideology of fossil fuels. Dissent, 65.
- Marland, G., & Rotty, R. M. (2017). Carbon dioxide emissions from fossil fuels: A procedure for estimation and results for. Tellus B: Chemical and Physical Meteorology, 36.
- SPEIGHT, J. G., & RADOVANOVIĆ, L. (2015). Biofuels: Future benefits and risks. Acta technica corvininesis. Bulletin of Engineering, 8(3), 97–101.
- Stanica-Ezeanu, D., & Frangulea, V. (2010). Study regarding biodiesel influence on lubricity of diesel fuel. Petroleum - Gas University of Ploiesti Bulletin, Technical Series, 62(3A), 101–104.
- Tagliaferri, C., Evangelisti, S., Acconcia, F., Domenech, T., Ekins, P., Barletta, D., & Lettieri, P. (2016). Life cycle assessment of future electric and hybrid vehicles: A cradle-to-grave systems engineering approach. Chemical Engineering Research & Design, 112, 298–309.
- Tilman, D., Socolow, R., Foley, J. A., Hill, J., Larson, E., Lynd, L., et al. (2009). Beneficial biofuels: The food, energy, and environment trilemma. Science, 325.
- Gumtree Support. (2018). Electric cars buying guide.
- PNAS. (2006). Environmental, economic, and energetic costs and benefits of biodiesel and ethanol biofuels.