Why do we care?

Reducing the CO₂ emissions generated by our vehicles is a significant step towards fighting climate change. Climate change impacts our air quality, people’s health, access to energy sources, and biodiversity, among other things. To achieve meaningful, long-term results from reducing CO₂ emissions, we need to combine climate policy measures and technological breakthroughs with the personal efforts of each individual.

Environmental emissions calculation for leased vehicles

When calculating the amount of emissions, we use the most high-precision components which characterise pollution. If several variables are unavailable, we use the most precise calculation possible, assuming that the WLTP* value is 152 gCO₂e/km and the standard milage is 15,000 km per year.

* The Worldwide Harmonised Light Vehicle Test Procedure (WLTP) is a global, harmonised standard for determining the levels of CO₂ and other emissions of light vehicles, as well as fuel or energy consumption. WLTP was implemented on the 1st September, 2017. Since then, all new car segments have adapted to WLTP values (applies only to the homologation of new cars), and, as of the 1st September, 2018, all cars being registered for the first time must display this WLTP value. 

• All relevant emissions are calculated and reported in CO₂ tonnes.
• The calculations are based on the tank-to-wheel (TTW) method, which calculates all greenhouse gases which are released when burning the fuel used to power a vehicle.
• The calculation does not include emissions which enter the atmosphere from the extraction, processing and transportation to petrol stations of petroleum. It also does not include emissions calculated for the manufacture of the vehicle. 
• The calculation uses variables such as the WLTP value (gCO₂/km) given during the vehicle’s testing procedure, and the permitted mileage within the leasing period in accordance with the leasing agreement.   
• Calculations for electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles assume that the electricity used comes from burning fossil fuels. The emissions factor for electricity consumed is the average European residual mix figure.
• One tree absorbs around 25 kg of CO₂ per year.

Your choice of vehicle has a significant impact on your carbon footprint, and there are several ways to make your choice more sustainable:

• Choose an environmentally-friendly method of transport, such as cycling or public transport;
• Don’t drive alone, and plan your routes carefully. When you select a vehicle with lower CO₂ emissions or an electric car, Citadele offers better leasing financing terms.
• Drive fluidly — don’t accelerate excessively, and avoid fast braking. If you adhere to this, you will save energy, reduce CO₂ emissions and lower overall traffic noise.