The Environment: How Does Propane Stack Up to Other Fuel Sources?
With so much concern over climate change, many people are curious to know how environmentally friendly propane is. After all, no one wants to regularly use or distribute a product that’s bad for the environment. So, is propane the best fuel source available if you’re trying to be eco friendly? The answer is yes, propane is among the top fuel sources to use for heat if you want to avoid hurting the planet. Here’s a look at why that is and how it compares to other fuel sources.
What Are the Benefits of Using Propane As a Fuel Source?
It’s common to wonder what impact any fuel source has on the environment, since it seems like nearly all sources of power have some sort of effect on the planet. Technically, propane is no exception, since it does give off a very small amount of carbon dioxide. However, the amount is extremely low compared to other fuel sources. This is important since carbon dioxide emissions can contribute heavily to acid rain, so the minimal emissions from propane make it among the greenest energy sources possible.
Additionally, unlike many other sources of energy, propane does not emit methane, sulfur dioxide, or nitrogen oxide. As a result, it doesn’t harm the groundwater, saltwater, or fresh water on our planet. And since it dissolves quickly, it doesn’t pollute the air, either. It’s also very safe to transport, as propane marketers know, so there’s a much lower chance of an accidental spill compared to other types of fuel. In short, propane is not only safe to use, but also better for the planet compared to other fuel sources in numerous ways.
Is Propane More Ecofriendly Than Other Fuel Sources?
When compared to other fuel sources that people regularly use, propane is considered one of the greenest options. In fact, the United States Environmental Protection Agency included propane on a short list of green fuel sources on the Clean Air Act, as this product is cleaner and better for the environment than conventional gas and diesel. The reasoning behind this is that it produces lower amounts of greenhouse gases and other pollutants.
More specifically, it releases 60% less carbon monoxide than gasoline and 98% less particulate matter than diesel, making it the preferred fuel source for green vehicles, from buses and taxis to lawnmowers and forklifts. It’s also the ideal option for grills since propane releases about 50% less carbon dioxide than charcoal does. Considering that at least 80% of greenhouse gases in the US come from carbon emissions, it makes sense to encourage people to use propane over most other fuel sources.
What Does This Mean for the Propane Industry?
As a propane marketer, you can do your part by educating current and potential customers about the ecofriendly properties of propane, as not everyone is aware of them. Just as you might share hints on how extreme weather can threaten propane systems or what winter safety tips to follow when handling propane, you can send information about how propane is among the preferred fuel sources.
After all, some people may be on the fence about what fuel source to use in their home or business, until they find out that propane is among the greenest options available to them. When you let them know the ecofriendly facts about this fuel source, you can help them decide what’s right for not only their own needs, but also for the planet.
While you help your customers pick the right fuel source, make sure you protect yourself by choosing the right insurance policy for your business. At PT Risk Management, we offer quarterly risk assessments and excellent customer service to ensure you have enough insurance coverage for your propane marketing services. Contact us to learn more about the propane insurance policy you need for full protection of your business.
