• Achieving effective global warming reduction hinges on significantly curbing greenhouse gas emissions. This necessitates a global shift towards clean energy sources.

A new study by the University of Leeds indicates that, without significant reductions in greenhouse gas emissions, poor air quality could lead to increased mortality.

The study, ‘Reducing Inequities in the Future Air Pollution Health Burden Over Europe,’ published on May 6, 2025 suggests that policy decisions aimed at mitigating climate change will directly influence future death rates attributable to poor air quality.

Achieving effective global warming reduction hinges on significantly curbing greenhouse gas emissions. This necessitates a global shift towards clean energy sources.

Electrification of transportation, particularly through the adoption of electric vehicles, represents a key strategy in this transition.

Globally, nations are already taking steps to implement such measures.

In Costa Rica, the Ministry of Environment and Energy, in collaboration with United Nation Environment Programme (UNEP), is spearheading an initiative to introduce electric vehicles into the taxi sector, guaranteeing a reduction in greenhouse gas emissions.

In Kenya, projections indicate that electric 2-wheelers (motorcycles) will exceed 60,000 units by 2030, with cumulative figures surpassing 200,000 given strong incentives. The 3-wheeler (tuk-tuk) market could also reach over 280 annual sales, totaling more than 1,865 units by 2030.

The Kenya Power and Lighting Company (KPLC) recently hosted its 3rd Annual E-Mobility Stakeholders Conference and Expo in Nairobi. This conference, held in association with GIZ Kenya and the Electric Mobility Association of Kenya, aimed to explore innovations, policies, and investments that will accelerate the adoption of electric mobility within Kenya.

KPLC states that “EVs cost less to maintain, can reduce fuel expenses by up to 50%, and are becoming more accessible in Kenya through supportive policy frameworks and emerging local innovations.”

According to the UNEP’s Emissions Gap Report 2024, the world is on track for a temperature increase of 2.6-3.1°C if nations fail to significantly cut greenhouse gas emissions. The report indicates that emissions cuts of 42 per cent by 2030 and 57 per cent by 2035 are required to align with a 1.5°C warming target.