PHILIPPINES: Electric jeepneys offer a cleaner and sustainable alternative to public transportation
- 00:01:20
- ITN Source
PHILIPPINES: Electric jeepneys offer a cleaner and sustainable alternative to public transportation
The electric jeepney launched by environmental groups on Wednesday (July 4) is poised to drive the Philippines towards a a cleaner form of public transportation relying purely on renewable energy. With a mechanism similar to a golf cart's, the 12-seater jeep runs on rechargeable batteries for a maximum of 120 kilometres (74.6 miles). Ideally, the electricity used for charging will be sourced from a biogas converter that generates power from household and wet market waste. The original Philippine jeepney is a cultural icon, first manufactured by World War II mechanics from leftover vehicles of American troops. But while it provides one of the cheapest means of commuting, the diesel-guzzlers are notorious air pollutants, posing a health risk for drivers and commuters. Developed by Green Renewable Independent Power Producer (GRIPP) with Greenpeace and distributed by Solar Electric, the electric jeepneys are part of a project that offers climate-friendly alternatives to current polluting modes of public transportation. "Whether we like it or not, climate change is going to hit the most vulnerable countries in 10 years. It's time for bold, daring, sustainable energy solutions," said Athena Ballesteros Ronquillo from GRIPP. Drivers of regular jeeps welcome the alternative, saying that the mileage limit means they can go home earlier to their wives. "If we use this electric jeep, the 500-800 pesos we would normally use to buy diesel fuel will be added to our daily income," said Bimindo Jose, president of Unified Transport Federation, a jeepney drivers' union. But with a price tag of 500,000 pesos (10,900 U.S. Dollars) per unit, drivers and operators have sought the city government to fund the purchase of the units. Mayor Jejomar Binay of Makati City, the Philippines' financial capital, signed an agreement with the project developers to operate a pilot fleet of 50 jeepney units and open a biodigester plant that will charge the batteries. "There should be political will on the part of the government to help expand the size of these jeeps across the country, and thereby helping reduce the carbon dioxide emissions of the country as a whole," said Jasper Inventor, climate and energy campaigner for Greenpeace. The electric jeepneys were manufactured in China, and will also be launched in other major cities in the Philippines. With a population of 91 million, the Philippines ranks as one of the highest carbon dioxide emitters in Southeast Asia with a total of 72.02 million metric tonnes each year.
ITN Source | July 4, 2007
