Pegada carro gasolina
- Created by
- Renato Passos, Eng. de Software
- Reviewed by
- Renato Passos, Eng. de Software
Last updated: Apr 18, 2026
About this calculator
This calculator estimates the carbon footprint of a gasoline-powered vehicle. It uses the emission factor of 2.3 kg of CO₂ per liter of gasoline burned, based on IPCC and ANP averages. Simply enter your monthly or annual consumption in liters to get the total CO₂ emitted. Results are shown in kilograms and tons, making it easy to compare with reduction targets.
The operation is straightforward: the user inputs the volume of gasoline consumed (in liters) and the calculator multiplies it by 2.3. For example, 50 liters per month results in 115 kg of CO₂. This calculation considers only direct combustion emissions, ignoring production and transport of gasoline (standard approach for individual footprint).
Use this tool to monitor your greenhouse gas emissions from transportation. It is useful for drivers who want to assess the environmental impact of their daily commutes, compare with other modes, or calculate offsetting via carbon credits. It also helps in reduction planning, such as reducing car use or switching to a more efficient vehicle.
Caveats: the 2.3 kg/L factor is an average; it varies with gasoline composition (anhydrous ethanol content can lower the value). Also, the calculation does not include upstream emissions (fuel production) nor vehicle wear. For a full footprint, consider car manufacturing and maintenance. Always compare with your vehicle's official data.
Frequently asked questions
How does the calculator determine my car's carbon footprint?
It uses a fixed factor of 2.3 kg of CO₂ per liter of gasoline, based on scientific averages. You input your consumption in liters and the result is the CO₂ emitted from direct fuel combustion.
Does this calculation consider the ethanol blended in gasoline?
Yes, the factor already accounts for typical Brazilian gasoline, which contains up to 27% anhydrous ethanol. For pure gasoline (no ethanol), the factor would be around 2.5 kg/L.
How many liters per month does an average car consume?
It depends. A popular car driven 1,000 km per month with an average of 12 km/L consumes about 83 liters, emitting roughly 191 kg of CO₂.
What can I do to reduce my footprint with this car?
Drive less (carpool, public transit), keep the engine tuned, maintain tire pressure, and avoid harsh acceleration. Each liter saved avoids 2.3 kg of CO₂.
Does the calculated footprint include fuel production?
No, only combustion. To include the full life cycle (extraction, refining, transport), add about 20% more to the result. Check life cycle assessment reports.