Anika Maskara ’23, Chemical and Biological Engineering

Anika Maskara ’23

Major

Chemical and Biological Engineering

Project Title

Supporting the Case for Medium- and Heavy-duty Vehicle Electrification

I worked with the energy analytics team at the Environmental Defense Fund (EDF) on issues related to zero-emissions medium- and heavy-duty vehicles. Medium- and heavy-duty vehicles make up less than 10% of vehicles on the road, but contribute more than 60% of mobile-source nitrogen oxides and particulate matter emissions, causing serious environmental and health problems. EDF’s goal is to ensure all new trucks and buses sold are zero-emissions by 2040. My primary project was to develop an interactive dashboard for estimating the emissions associated with medium- and heavy-duty vehicles in all 50 states, which will allow EDF to easily calculate and share emissions profiles when promoting its policy goals. To make this dashboard, I gathered and analyzed data related to vehicle populations and emissions factors. This internship allowed me to develop my technical programming skills and gain a firm understanding of the current state of the medium- and heavy-duty vehicle market and where it might go in the future. The experience solidified my interest in using technology to promote social good and inspired me to learn more about sustainability in the transportation sector.