From Guest Blogger Eileen O’Shanassy: Gas and Diesel–A Tale of Two Fuels

The debate between which fuel, gas or diesel, is “better” has been a longstanding one, especially since the auto industry has implemented several improvements in greenhouse gas emissions and fuel economy. But not everyone sees what is best in the same way. Although higher fuel economy benefits people shopping for eco-friendly reasons and for economic reasons, some consumers make choices based on performance and longevity or on what may happen in the event of an accident. Diesel and gas have different features to offer depending on what is most important to the buyer, so making a decision on what is better begins with what you want out of your vehicle.

Economics and Environment Go Hand in Hand

Both diesel and gas have undergone transformations in their use and formulas to be more environmentally friendly. There has been a worldwide call to reduce vehicle emissions, which means both diesel and gas fuels and the vehicles that use them are changing for the better. Cars are being made to consume less gas and diesel fuel, and vehicle mechanics are being changed to reduce the number of harmful emissions coming from gas and diesel engines. Using less fuel is definitely a plus for buyers. Prices for gas and diesel fluctuate, but diesel definitely goes the distance. Despite being more expensive per gallon, diesel gets roughly 30% better mileage. This may work out to actually costing less per mile than gas. However, getting that diesel engine is more expensive initially and can cost more to maintain properly.

Carbon Dioxide, Nitrogen, and Particulates: Emission Nitty Gritty

Gas and diesel fuel consumption both result in emissions that are harmful to our health and the environment, but gas and diesel differ on how much and what type of chemicals are released during combustion. Gas marketed currently for vehicle consumption releases 18.9 pounds of CO2 whereas diesel produces 22.4 pounds per gallon. However, keep in mind that one gallon of diesel gets 30% better mileage. With that difference factored, diesel may release fewer CO2 emissions per mile than gas. Biodiesel is another option that may be used and releases only 17.9 pounds per gallon. Despite diesel’s efficiency, however, its use does result in other types of emissions like nitrogen compounds and other particulates that are hazardous to human health and bad for the environment. Improvements in these other types of emissions would help to make a better case for diesel use.

Externalities

Emissions are not the only consideration. According to Stewart Guss, About 111,000 individuals were injured in truck accidents, and 3,903 individuals died from their truck accident injuries in 2014. This is bad enough, but these collisions frequently result in fuel leakage that can have a catastrophic effect on the local environment. We all remember that terrifying scene from Once Upon a Forest, right? And that’s when the trucks aren’t carrying other hazardous materials, as in last year’s Salt Lake City accident.

So What’s Worse?

Making a definitive decision on what may be better or worse for the environment in the case of gas and diesel takes into account several factors, but both leave an indelible footprint on worldwide carbon emissions. Steady improvements in fuel economy and strides toward alternative energy sources will drive future vehicle choices and fuel options. But for now, using less gas and diesel by properly maintaining vehicles, ride-sharing, and choosing green commuting options are the best bet for making a difference.