Assessing the implementation of eco-driving in Mauritius—A climate change mitigation measure

Abstract

Mauritius depends on imported fuel for close to 82% of its energy needs. The carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions associated with the burning of fossil fuels are on the rise due to growing electricity and transportation demand. In 2010, transportation accounted to 24.9% of total CO2 emissions and the number of vehicles registered in Mauritius has increased from 265,841 in 2002 to 384,115 in 2010 (Statistics Mauritius in Digest of environment statistics 2011, Mauritius, 2012). This is a highly unsustainable trend for both energy security and climate-related reasons. Therefore, an analysis of the approach to encourage and implement eco-driving, an important climate change mitigation measure, is a necessity for the island. This study aimed at developing an in-depth understanding of eco-driving, as a driver education initiative and as a climate change mitigating measure. A questionnaire was designed with the objectives of highlighting the key parameters that should be addressed in order to promote the concept of eco-driving in Mauritius. The findings of the survey first gave an insight of the willingness of drivers to adopt an eco-driving behaviour and identified the barriers that should be overcome so as to successfully implement eco-driving in Mauritius. In addition, a cost–benefit analysis was carried out to determine the extent to which implementing eco-driving will be cost-effective. An action plan of measures needed for implementing eco-driving in a timely manner was then proposed. The survey revealed that 68.1% respondents are willing to adopt eco-driving practices into their driving habits and only 45% respondents are willing to purchase and use an eco-driving device in their vehicles. It was observed that most drivers have little knowledge of eco-driving and they do not practice eco-driving frequently. Hypotheses were tested and it was shown that drivers are willing to adopt eco-driving behaviours but they are not willing to purchase an eco-driving device; at a confidence interval of 95%. Possible barriers to the implementation of eco-driving were highlighted from the survey. From the barrier analysis, a cost–benefit analysis was carried out to assess the cost-effectiveness of specific measures. The study identified measures, like conducting awareness campaigns on eco-driving, providing eco-driving training to different groups of drivers, giving subsidy to drivers for purchasing eco-driving feedback devices, investing in an eco-driving reference project and designing road layouts so as to encourage eco-driving. A benefit/cost ratio of 1.06 was obtained which means that it is worthwhile to go ahead with the project of implementing eco-driving in Mauritius. Besides, additional measures were recommended over a long-term basis, such as encouraging Public–Private Partnership to secure financial support and optimising traffic lights to enable eco-driving. The outcomes of this research work provide reassurance to the government that investing money for the implementation of eco-driving in Mauritius can reduce the country’s dependence on imported fuel and consequently, lowering the CO2 emissions from transport sector. In addition, eco-driving is associated with social benefits by enabling a safer and pleasant driving; ensuring community welfare.