Although natural gas is the fastest growing alternate fuel in California, it still represents only about 1/2 of 1% of the of the gasoline/diesel transportation fuels market in California. The information below reflects the California story in regards to natural gas for transportation as a percent of regional gas sendout and as a percent of the "liquid" (gasoline and diesel) fuels market in California. This information is confirmed in the Calif Gas Report (2003 Supplement) with 2002 gas sendout for the utilities. This information was compiled by Mike Eaves of the California Natural Gas Vehicle Coalition.

2002 Summary-Natural Gas as a Transportation Fuel

The studies prove it: factory-built NGVs greatly reduce harmful emissions compared to similar gasoline vehicles. NGVs produce:

98% lower smog-forming volatile organic compounds (VOCs) — One of the main health hazards associated with vehicle emissions is ground-level ozone. VOCs react with NOx to form ground-level ozone, a major component of smog.

90% lower carbon monoxide (CO) — Carbon Monoxide is a toxic gas formed by the incomplete combustion of fuels. At high concentrations, CO can pose an acute health threat. Lower doses of CO commonly found in cities during traffic congestion may impair perception and reflexes.

50% lower nitrogen oxides (NOx) — Not only is NOx play essential in causing ozone and smog, it also contributes to acid rain. Nitrous oxide is also a greenhouse gas and the build up of greenhouse gases in the upper environment contributes to global warming.

60% lower particulate matter (PM) — PM is a microscopic component of air pollution that penetrates deeply into the lungs. According to a recent U.S. Environmental Protection Agency report, PMs are more harmful than originally suspected, increasing respiratory and cardiovascular problems.

97% lower sulfur dioxide (SO2) — Natural gas contains very little sulfur and therefore NGVs will have very low sulfur dioxide emissions. Sulfur dioxide contributes to air pollution and acid rain.

Lower NMHC emissions — Natural gas is inherently lower in NMHC Non-Methane Hydrocarbons than other fuel types. Hydrocarbon emissions consist of a mixture of VOCs which are highly reactive. The purpose of limiting total hydrocarbon emissions is to limit VOCs. Emissions standards specify limits only on Non-Methane Hydrocarbons (NMHC).

Zero Benzene emissions — Natural gas contains no benzene. Benzene is a common constituent of gasoline and gasoline engine exhaust. It is a well-known carcinogen and considered a toxic air contaminant.