Francesco Cruz Torres
PhD thesis title: Modelling Green Transition Pathways with Cross-Sectorial Linkages at Nation-Wide Scale: The Decarbonization of Italian Light Duty Road Transport by 2050
Academic Tutor: Luigi Pietro Maria Colombo
Academic Supervisor: Emanuela Colombo
Affiliate external company or research group: Eni S.p.A.
PhD cycle: 37° (see all student profiles of the same cycle > LINK)
BSc: Energy Engineering, Politecnico di Milano
MSc: Engineering and Policy Analysis, Delft University of Technology
Best paper award at 4th International Conference for Bioresource Technology for Bioenergy, Bioproducts & Environmental Sustainability by Elsevier (BIORESTEC 2023)
Silver Medals at the 2022 and 2023 Italian Mediation Competitions
Gold Medal at the 2023 Italian Negotiation Competition
Thesis abstract
To decarbonize light duty road transport, the European Union has been negotiating a target to effectively ban all new diesel and petrol vehicles, which constitute around 95% of today’s fleet. Multiple negotiation coalitions have proposed alternative targets, involving a transition to a biofuel, e-fuel and/or electrically powered mobility. In my dissertation, I (1) review the relevant international and Italian legislation; (2) identify the main negotiation options proposed by European countries to decarbonize the sector; and (3) assess their economic and environmental impacts using System Dynamics and Energy System Optimization Modelling.
Personal interest in my research theme
This dissertation closely reflects my reasons for pursuing university studies. A long reflection, then the passion and reason: “To till and keep” the environment (Gen 2:15). I enrolled in energy engineering and policy analysis to learn how humans work the environment, extract resources as well as enact informed policies preserving the environment. In my PhD I have had the pleasure of investigating available options to regulate vehicles’ consumption and environmental impact, in fact helping European policymakers strike a balance between utilization of natural resources and their preservation.
