How to Determine Carbon Footprints?

[Craig]

For sake of discussion, let's assume global warming is true.

Where would one find data on the carbon footprint, and fuel mileage of motorcycles, ATV's and scooters? For transportation, motorcycles and scooters may be much better for the planet, but ... are they?

Thanks.

 

[Craig]

Mileage for cars can be found at a U.S. federal site ... is there any similar site for motorcycles? Found this Total Motorcycle Website, but it isn't authoritative.

With all the conversation about carbon footprints, is there any data available?

 

[Zathras]

The carbon footprint for an automobile and motorcyle, once constructed, are really just a factor of their gasoline and oil usage.
For the carbon that is added to the atmosphere during construction, you would need information from the manufacturer and manufacturing process. My guess would be the lighter the vehicle and the fewer the number of parts the smaller the carbon footprint.

If you are looking for an individual's carbon footprint I have a few links. However it sounds like you are focused on automobiles and motorcycles. I am afraid I have no links for that specific topic

 

[Craig]

Zathras, I'll take anything you've got ... please pass them on. Easy to find a few general notes, such as WikiPedia.

Thanks.

 

[Zathras]

Here are a couple:

http://www.carbonfootprint.com/USA/calculator.html

http://www.mnenergychallenge.org/energycalculator/?PHPSESSID=8e39365897120dca23d7b22666a65ba8

That second one is the one I prefer.
They are both for a general picture of your carbon footprint. However both include vehicles as well.

Overall, I wish more attention were given to buildings. Vehicles do play a role, but buildings tend to play a bigger role.

 

[Craig]

Thanks.