scholarly journals Unique Opportunities of Island States to Transition to a Low-Carbon Mobility System

2020 ◽  
Vol 12 (4) ◽  
pp. 1435 ◽  
Author(s):  
Zakia Soomauroo ◽  
Philipp Blechinger ◽  
Felix Creutzig
Keyword(s):  
Network Effects ◽  
Ghg Emissions ◽  
Climate Change Impacts ◽  
Spillover Effects ◽  
Extreme Weather Events ◽  
Small Scale ◽  
Low Carbon ◽  
Local Decision ◽  
Zero Carbon ◽  
Lock In

Small islands developing states (SIDS) contribute minuscule proportions to global greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and energy consumption, but are highly exposed to climate change impacts, in particular to extreme weather events and sea-level rise. However, there is little research on potential decarbonization trajectories unique to SIDS. Here, we argue that insular topology, scale, and economy are distinctive characteristics of SIDS that facilitate overcoming carbon lock-in. We investigate these dimensions for the three islands of Barbados, Fiji, and Mauritius. We find that insular topologies and small scale offer an opportunity for both public transit corridors and rapid electrification of car fleets. The tourism sector enables local decision-makers and investors to experiment with shared mobility and to induce spillover effects by educating tourists about new mobility options. Limited network effects, and the particular economy thus enables to overcome carbon lock-in. We call for targeted investments into SIDS to transition insular mobility systems towards zero carbon in 2040. The decarbonization of SIDS is not only needed as a mitigation effort, but also as a strong signal to the global community underlining that a zero-carbon future is possible.

scholarly journals Thermal system-specific and net-zero carbon least-cost design of new houses in Canadian cold climates

2021 ◽  
Author(s):  
Brandon Wilbur
Keyword(s):  
Life Cycle ◽  
Heat Pump ◽  
Life Cycle Cost ◽  
Ghg Emissions ◽  
Building Design ◽  
Heating System ◽  
Carbon Intensity ◽  
Low Carbon ◽  
Net Zero ◽  
Zero Carbon

Whole-building model optimizations have been performed for a single-detached house in 5 locations with varying climates, electricity emissions factors, and energy costs. The multi-objective optimizations determine the life-cycle cost vs. operational greenhouse gas emissions Pareto front to discover the 30-year life-cycle least-cost building design heated 1) with natural gas, and 2) electrically using a) central air-source heat pump, b) ductless mini-split heat pump c)ground-source heat pump, and d) electric baseboard, accounting for both initial and operational energy-related costs. A net-zero carbon design with grid-tied photovoltaics is also optimized. Results indicate that heating system type influences the optimal enclosure design, and that neither building total energy use, nor space heating demand correspond to GHG emissions across heating system types. In each location, at least one type of all-electric design has a lower life-cycle cost than the optimized gas-heated model, and such designs can mitigate the majority of operational GHG emissions from new housing in locations with a low carbon intensity electricity supply.

scholarly journals Towards the IMO’s GHG Goals: A Critical Overview of the Perspectives and Challenges of the Main Options for Decarbonizing International Shipping

2020 ◽  
Vol 12 (8) ◽  
pp. 3220 ◽  
Author(s):  
Patrizia Serra ◽  
Gianfranco Fancello
Keyword(s):  
Ghg Emissions ◽  
Research Approach ◽  
Shipping Industry ◽  
Low Carbon ◽  
Efficiency Measures ◽  
Initial Strategy ◽  
Zero Carbon ◽  
Pros And Cons ◽  
Barriers To Implementation ◽  
Critical Overview

The Initial Strategy on reduction of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from ships adopted by the International Maritime Organization (IMO) in 2018 commits the IMO to reduce total GHG emissions of shipping by at least 50% by 2050. Though the direction of the Strategy is clear, the path to implementation remains uncertain. The ambitious IMO’s target calls for widespread uptake of lower and zero-carbon fuels, in addition to other energy efficiency measures, including operational and market ones. Using a triangulated research approach, this paper provides a critical overview of the main measures and initiatives the shipping industry can adopt to try to cope with the new IMO’s requirements. The pros and cons of the most popular emission reduction options are investigated along with the main challenges and barriers to implementation and the potential facilitators that could foster a wider application. The framework that is outlined is complex and not without controversy. Research can play a key role as a facilitator of shipping’s decarbonization by providing its contribution to overcoming the existing controversies on various decarbonization options and by developing a wealth of knowledge that can encourage the implementation of low-carbon initiatives.

scholarly journals Thermal system-specific and net-zero carbon least-cost design of new houses in Canadian cold climates

2021 ◽  
Author(s):  
Brandon Wilbur
Keyword(s):  
Life Cycle ◽  
Heat Pump ◽  
Life Cycle Cost ◽  
Ghg Emissions ◽  
Building Design ◽  
Heating System ◽  
Carbon Intensity ◽  
Low Carbon ◽  
Net Zero ◽  
Zero Carbon

Whole-building model optimizations have been performed for a single-detached house in 5 locations with varying climates, electricity emissions factors, and energy costs. The multi-objective optimizations determine the life-cycle cost vs. operational greenhouse gas emissions Pareto front to discover the 30-year life-cycle least-cost building design heated 1) with natural gas, and 2) electrically using a) central air-source heat pump, b) ductless mini-split heat pump c)ground-source heat pump, and d) electric baseboard, accounting for both initial and operational energy-related costs. A net-zero carbon design with grid-tied photovoltaics is also optimized. Results indicate that heating system type influences the optimal enclosure design, and that neither building total energy use, nor space heating demand correspond to GHG emissions across heating system types. In each location, at least one type of all-electric design has a lower life-cycle cost than the optimized gas-heated model, and such designs can mitigate the majority of operational GHG emissions from new housing in locations with a low carbon intensity electricity supply.

A Framework to Develop a Zero-Carbon Emission Sustainable Cognitive City

2019 ◽  
pp. 1-26
Author(s):  
Kiran Ahuja ◽  
Arun Khosla
Keyword(s):  
Urban Communities ◽  
Urban Areas ◽  
Carbon Emission ◽  
Small Scale ◽  
Low Carbon ◽  
Distributed Energy ◽  
New Energy ◽  
Zero Carbon ◽  
Set Up ◽  
Ozone Depleting Substances

To develop a sustainable zero-carbon cognitive city, a setup is required that will lessen outflows of ozone-depleting substances to zero and all practices that discharge ozone-harming substances. This progress incorporates de-carbonizing power and zero-emanation transport for environmental change. Zero-carbon urban areas keep up ideal living conditions while wiping out natural effect. Rather than utilizing set up urban communities, numerous engineers are beginning sans preparation with a specific end goal to make a zero-carbon city. While keeping this in view, the authors propose a framework for zero-carbon emission sustainable cognitive cities. They ensure that each part of a city adds to its being without carbon. They integrate large and small-scale energy initiatives and solutions along with citywide improvements in energy efficiency, low carbon transportation, and distributed energy resources. The cities will become clusters of smart energy communities, which can exploit the benefits of new energy systems.

scholarly journals Assessment of Climate Change Impacts on Maize Production in Mali

2021 ◽  
Author(s):  
Tiémoko SOUMAORO
Keyword(s):  
Climate Change ◽  
Crop Yields ◽  
Agricultural Research ◽  
Climate Change Impacts ◽  
Spillover Effects ◽  
Local Area ◽  
Extreme Weather Events ◽  
Maize Production ◽  
Temperature And Precipitation ◽  
Maize Yields

Abstract This study examined the total, direct and indirect effects of climatic variables (temperature and rainfall) on crop yields maize in a given region and in neighbouring regions, through a spatial panel analysis of five administrative regions of Mali over a 30-year period (1988 - 2017). Our results show that temperature and rainfall have direct, indirect and total effects on maize yields. In other words, the effect on regions closely linked to the region where the change in temperature or rainfall occurred will be greater than the effect on more remote regions. In addition, the coefficient of variation of precipitation and the interaction between temperature and precipitation as well as the area sown all have negative impacts on maize yields. However, maize yields are negatively correlated with drought. This means that maize production in the local area is declining as a result of increased extreme weather events. Based on these findings, policy makers need to take into account that conditions in the surrounding areas can influence maize yields and that spillover effects differ between crop types. Investments in agricultural research and development should be encouraged to counteract the effects of climate change.

Climate change and the railway industry: A review

2009 ◽  
Vol 224 (3) ◽  
pp. 519-528 ◽  
Author(s):  
C J Baker ◽  
L Chapman ◽  
A Quinn ◽  
K Dobney
Keyword(s):  
Climate Change ◽  
High Speed ◽  
Carbon Sources ◽  
Ghg Emissions ◽  
Extreme Weather Events ◽  
System Modelling ◽  
Low Carbon ◽  
Modal Shift ◽  
Rail Network ◽  
Use Of Resources

This article considers the issues surrounding climate change and the rail industry in two ways. First, it discusses the role that railways could play in reducing overall greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and thus help to reduce and mitigate the global temperature increase that will occur over the coming decades. It is argued that, while railways in general have lower emissions than other modes, if a significant decrease in emissions is to be attained, then the capacity of the current rail network needs to be greatly increased to encourage a significant modal shift from road and domestic air travel. Electrification and the provision of high-speed lines can also play a role in this regard, but only if the power that is drawn from the grid is supplied by low carbon sources. Second, the article considers the effect of climate change on the operation of the railway in the next few decades and the adaptations that will be required. The main effects of such changes are likely to be an increase in the track buckling problem, severe strain on railway drainage systems, and the increased likelihood of disruption because of extreme weather events. Ongoing work in this field, aimed at making the railways more resilient, is discussed. It is concluded that, for each of the two areas considered, there is a need for overall system modelling, both to fully evaluate possible mechanisms to reduce GHG emissions, taking account of transfer between modes, capacity limitations, and the national energy mix; and to properly evaluate the major climate change risks to railway operation and to prioritize the use of resources in tackling these issues.

scholarly journals Climate-compatible development in New Zealand

2018 ◽  
Vol 14 (4) ◽  
Author(s):  
Stephen Knight-Lenihan ◽  
Kate Scanlen
Keyword(s):  
Climate Change ◽  
New Zealand ◽  
Climate Change Impacts ◽  
Mitigation Strategies ◽  
Policy Framework ◽  
Low Carbon ◽  
Emissions Reductions ◽  
Low Carbon Economy ◽  
Zero Carbon ◽  
Carbon Economy

Like many countries, New Zealand is grappling with how to reduce greenhouse gas emissions while adapting to climate change. We are working through a Zero Carbon Bill and the implications of transitioning to a low-carbon economy. The country is being told it needs a more co-ordinated and effective way to prepare for climate change impacts, as local government is formulating adaptation and mitigation strategies in an uncertain and, as discussed below, at times confusing legal and policy framework. Potentially helpful is a concept evolving internationally, climatecompatible development. This promotes the idea of explicitly combining strategies and policies for emissions reductions and adaptation initiatives while enabling improvements in human wellbeing. This article explores the usefulness of such a concept for New Zealand.

Costs and Benefits of the Transition to Low-carbon Economyin Russia: Perspectives up to 2050

2014 ◽  
pp. 70-91 ◽  
Author(s):  
I. Bashmakov ◽  
A. Myshak
Keyword(s):  
Emission Reduction ◽  
High Probability ◽  
Ghg Emissions ◽  
Mitigation Measures ◽  
Low Carbon ◽  
Costs And Benefits ◽  
Ghg Emission ◽  
Research Groups ◽  
Emissions Mitigation ◽  
Very High

This paper investigates costs and benefits associated with low-carbon economic development pathways realization to the mid XXI century. 30 scenarios covering practically all “visions of the future” were developed by several research groups based on scenario assumptions agreed upon in advance. It is shown that with a very high probability Russian energy-related GHG emissions will reach the peak before 2050, which will be at least 11% below the 1990 emission level. The height of the peak depends on portfolio of GHG emissions mitigation measures. Efforts to keep 2050 GHG emissions 25-30% below the 1990 level bring no GDP losses. GDP impact of deep GHG emission reduction - by 50% of the 1990 level - varies from plus 4% to minus 9%. Finally, very deep GHG emission reduction - by 80% - may bring GDP losses of over 10%.

Malaysia’s Rising GHG Emissions and Carbon ‘Lock-In’ Risk: A Review of Malaysian Building Sector Legislation and Policy

2015 ◽  
Vol 6 (1) ◽  
pp. 1-13 ◽  
Author(s):  
Suzaini M. Zaid ◽  
Nik Elyna Myeda ◽  
Norhayati Mahyuddin ◽  
Raha Sulaiman
Keyword(s):  
Ghg Emissions ◽  
Building Sector ◽  
Lock In

scholarly journals Car Sharing as a Strategy to Address GHG Emissions in the Transport System: Evaluation of Effects of Car Sharing in Amsterdam

2021 ◽  
Vol 13 (4) ◽  
pp. 2418
Author(s):  
Ana María Arbeláez Vélez ◽  
Andrius Plepys
Keyword(s):  
Ghg Emissions ◽  
Transport Systems ◽  
Car Ownership ◽  
Low Carbon ◽  
Car Sharing ◽  
Shared Mobility ◽  
Before And After ◽  
Business To Consumer ◽  
The City ◽  
Carbon Transport

Shared mobility options, such as car sharing, are often claimed to be more sustainable, although evidence at an individual or city level may contradict these claims. This study aims to improve understanding of the effects of car sharing on transport-related emissions at an individual and city level. This is done by quantifying the greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions of the travel habits of individuals before and after engaging with car sharing. The analysis uses a well-to-wheel (WTW) approach, including both business-to-consumer (B2C) and peer-to-peer (P2P) car-sharing fleets. Changes in GHG emissions after engaging in car sharing vary among individuals. Transport-related GHG emissions caused by car-free individuals tend to increase after they engage in car sharing, while emissions caused by previous car owners tend to fall. At the city level, GHG emissions savings can be achieved by using more efficient cars in sharing systems and by implementing greener mobility policies. Changes in travel habits might help to reduce GHG emissions, providing individuals migrate to low-carbon transport modes. The findings can be used to support the development and implementation of transport policies that deter car ownership and support shared mobility solutions that are integrated in city transport systems.

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