The transport sector is highly dependent on non-renewable fossil fuels energy whose combustion results in emission of harmful gases and air pollutants. The share of cleaner conventional and alternative fuels is therefore an important determinant of the transport sector's contribution to air pollution. Cleaner fuels are easy to incorporate into existing infrastructure and equipment.

Electric energy (battery powered energy), compressed natural gas (CNG), liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) and biodiesel could be used as renewable fuels in place of diesel. Biodiesel reduces several types of emissions compared to petroleum diesel; reduces total hydrocarbons by nearly 70%, particulate matter by nearly 50% and carbon monoxide by nearly 50%. Fully electric vehicles do not generate tailpipe emissions. CNG and LPG have lower emissions of carbon monoxide than petrol powered vehicles. Emissions of nitrogen oxides and particulates from both LPG and CNG powered vehicles are significantly lower than those from diesel vehicles.With any type of fuel, it is important to consider the full lifecycle: what goes into its production, delivery and end use.

With an integrated energy management approach, fleets can evaluate all viable fuels and pick the ones that best fit their needs.  Business objectives, budget and financing, fleet usage, vehicle types and sustainability goals should be factored into the decision-making process. Policies that support elimination of lead in gasoline, Phasing down sulfur in diesel to 50ppm and gasoline fuels, adopting cleaner vehicle technologies and developing automotive fuel efficiency strategies should be implemented.