Recognizing the enormous contribution of cars and tailpipe emissions to climate change, former Senator Fran Pavley’s legislation California AB 1493 created a market for zero emission vehicles (ZEV) in the State of California.
Electric Vehicles (EV)
You have probably seen a mix of EVs available in the market today – from the ultra-mini Smart Car to the sleek Tesla. Want to drive EV? Check out non-profit Plug in America. The U.S. Department of Energy has created a nationwide Alternative Fueling Station Locator. Locally cities and parks are stepping up to provide free charging to the public.
- SoCal EV Charging Stations
- Leo Carrillo State Beach
- Malibu Creek State Park
- City of Malibu
- Malibu Country Mart
- Pepperdine University
Biodiesel
The majority of the biodiesel that is produced comes from soybean oil. Biodiesel can also be produced from rapeseed oil, Jatropha, and many other crops. Some biodiesel is also produced from waste vegetable oil, animal fats, or algae. DriveBiodiesel.net provides a list of biodiesel stations that are open to the public.
Hydrogen
Hydrogen production is a chemical reaction; using heat and catalysts to release hydrogen molecules from natural gas or biogas, or using solar or wind energy to electrolyze water. The fuel cell in an Fuel Cell Electric Vehicle (FCEV) also uses a chemical reaction to convert hydrogen and oxygen into electricity. From well to wheels, FCEVs using hydrogen create almost zero air pollutants and greatly reduce GHG emissions. The California Fuel Cell Partnership offers a map of fueling stations throughout the state.