Shell Lubricants underscores roles of companies and individuals in reducing C02 emissions

Shell Lubricants Technology Manager Robert Mainwaring predicted that by 2050, there would be two billion vehicles plying the world’s roads. Mainwaring added that a proportion of these vehicles will most likely be hybrid cars and vehicles powered by hydrogen, biofuels and electricity. But several factors, including technological development hurdles, high capital investment costs, as well as market inertia will most likely restrict the impact of vehicles using alternative energy. Mainwaring believes that by 2050, two-thirds of vehicles will continue to use current engine technologies, as well as “conventional” liquid fuels. As such, Mainwaring said Shell believes that to be able to solve the carbon dioxide emission problem, there should be a concerted effort at both the corporate and individual levels. Mainwaring said, “The energy consumption and resulting emissions of future vehicle design needs to be reduced. A more cohesive approach between the development of new vehicle engines and novel grades of conventionally-sourced fuels and lubricants offers a fast track to major advances in fuel efficiency.” On the individual level, Mainwaring said, “In terms of individuals, it is up to them to take fewer and more efficient journeys, encouraged by government policies that influence driver behavior and mobility choices.” (July 24, 2012