By Alina Stax
Due to the many different aspects in this field, this blog is only focusing on the environmental impact. And if the phrase “developing country” occurs it is not meant in a derogatory way, but more as a description regarding potential safety improvements.
Air pollution has become a major problem in many developing countries in Africa which leads to greenhouse gas emissions that come with health problems for the entire population. Regarding the greenhouse gas emissions its production and especially CO2 has a consequent effect on the global climate and thus must be reduced. Taking a closer look on health problems, fossil fuel engines produce a lot of poisonous pollutants causing short- and longterm health problems, hindering children’s development and in general shortening lives. Besides, with an increasing number of non-electric motorcycles the stressing factor of noise pollution must be taken more seriously.
One of the major contributors to air pollution is the large number of vehicles, especially commercial motorcycles. But these commercial motorcycles are a very essential part of daily life and therefore not easy to replace.
Some words about why motorcycles are so much needed and essential for daily life:
The number of commercial motorcycles has increased quickly due to population growth, rapid urbanization, poor roads, lack of public transportation and many more factors. But the two main factors why motorcycles gained popularity are accessibility and income generation. With a motorcycle you can reach desired destinations by evading traffic jam more easily. You can drive along small bumpy roads where no four-wheeled vehicle could come through. You are faster than riding a bicycle and can transport quite big things. On the other hand, commercial motorcycles have given many people an opportunity for employment. It has created millions of jobs for riders such as taxi drivers or delivery of any kind of things. This income generation is one of the largest sources of employment outside agriculture and essential for the local economy.
To address these challenges, electric motorcycles could be used instead of traditional gasoline-powered motorcycles. Electric motorcycles have the potential to improve local air quality by using electricity as power instead of fossil fuel engines that produce CO2. They reduce greenhouse gas emissions and noise pollution using renewable energy. Besides this, the energy costs are lower and maintenance costs are even less than half of non-electric motorcycles, so there is also a financial benefit.
However, there are a few challenges that need to be considered. Road safety is a significant concern like guided traffic or save road surface. Further, new regulations and legislations need to be put in place to ensure that they are safe to use on the roads. Additionally, charging infrastructure needs to be created and power supply must be guaranteed, which is probably the most challenging part. Supply of stable electricity is a key barrier in these countries but essential if commercial motorcycles should switch to electric engines.
In conclusion, developing countries in Africa are facing a range of challenges related to air pollution, and the increased use of commercial motorcycles is a significant contributor to this problem. However, the use of electric motorcycles could provide a solution that benefits both the environment and the people who rely on them for their livelihoods. It is essential to address the challenges that come with the use of electric motorcycles, but the potential benefits make it a worthwhile investment for these countries.