Debate Intensifies Over Swedish Government's Electric Moped Initiative in Ghana

The Swedish government's recent decision to allocate 109 million SEK towards introducing 48,000 electric mopeds in Ghana has sparked significant discussion among policymakers and environmental experts. The primary objective of this initiative is to achieve emission reductions in West Africa, which Sweden can then account for as part of its own climate compensation efforts.

However, the strategy has drawn criticism from several quarters due to the presence of petrol-powered mopeds in Sweden itself, particularly in urban areas. In many Swedish cities, pedestrians and cyclists have reported increased air pollution caused by exhaust from delivery mopeds, a trend that accelerated during the pandemic. Many of these vehicles, especially older two-stroke models, are known to emit large quantities of harmful particulates and hydrocarbons.

Research has highlighted the severe environmental and health impacts of these older mopeds. A study published in Nature Communications found that a two-stroke moped at idle can emit up to 124 times more toxic hydrocarbons than a passenger car. The emissions contain substances such as benzene--a recognized carcinogen--at concentrations behind a moped that can far exceed the European Union's annual air quality limits.

While newer four-stroke mopeds available on the market produce less hazardous exhaust, studies indicate they still emit significantly more particulates than modern passenger vehicles. The continued use of these mopeds in densely populated areas raises concerns about public health, especially among young people who are more vulnerable to the adverse effects of air pollution.

Despite these issues, Swedish municipalities have limited options to address the problem. According to experts at the IVL Swedish Environmental Research Institute, the introduction of stricter regulations--such as defining 'environmental zones class 3' for mopeds--would require amendments to national traffic regulations. Proposals for such changes were previously put forward but were not passed in parliament.

In response to these concerns, some political parties are seeking cross-party dialogue to reconsider the use of petrol-powered mopeds on cycling and pedestrian paths. Supporters of regulatory changes argue that local authorities should have the ability to restrict or ban the most polluting mopeds in areas with poor air quality.

Ministerial figures responsible for Swedish transport and climate policy have acknowledged the ongoing debate. The infrastructure minister has indicated plans to engage with major food delivery companies operating in Sweden to better understand their use of petrol mopeds and to discuss potential measures to mitigate emissions. Efforts are also underway to gather input from stakeholders and explore solutions that balance climate goals with public health priorities domestically.

The controversy underscores the broader challenge faced by governments in aligning domestic and international climate initiatives. As Sweden pursues emission reductions abroad through technology transfer and climate compensation projects, questions remain about the balance between supporting global climate action and addressing local environmental concerns.

Stakeholders continue to call for a comprehensive approach that includes both international cooperation and robust domestic policies, aiming for a coherent strategy that improves air quality and contributes effectively to climate targets.