Sustainability: Projects
Integrated Technology Assessment
Client
US EPA Office of Research and Development
Description
We evaluate technologies using sustainability as a conceptual framework. In support of this project for EPA, we created a methodology for conducting integrated assessments of technologies based on economic, environmental, social, political, and institutional considerations.
We applied the methodology to analyze the market potential of current and future hybrid, diesel, and internal combustion engine passenger vehicles. We gathered transportation system data through literature searches, government reports and technology databases, and our own contacts. We assessed the data for content and quality and assembled them into spreadsheet tables. We also provided technical guidance in developing potential transportation technology datasets and in assessing the air quality and economic impacts of adopting these technologies in the future. We created internally consistent technology datasets for plausible future transportation technology scenarios in the United States for the years 2000, 2010, 2020, and 2030.
Our assessment allowed EPA to move beyond traditional engineering-based assessments and determine which technologies provide long-term benefits without overlooking social, environmental, or other impacts.
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