City and local governments are on the frontline of climate change. In 2020, nearly 54% of the world population lived in an urbanised environment. Furthermore, a high percentage of cities are threatened by the rise of sea levels.
87% of human sources of CO2 come from burning fossil fuels (heat, transportation, energy).
Of which:
- 41% come from electricity production.
- 22% from transport.
- 20% from industry & agriculture.
- 6% from the residential sector.
- 10% others.
- 9% from land use change.
- 4% from industrial processes.
As community managers, there are many actions you can take, following the principle Negawatt + clean energy generation + carbon offsetting.
NEGAWATT
Reducing energy consumption is paramount. There are many solutions:
Insulating buildings against cold and heat.
Heat/cold recycling.
Sun shades on buildings in hot countries.
Avoiding dark surfaces that contribute to the heat island effect.
Optimising mobility.
Optimising goods & waste transport.
Information & incentives for the public and businesses.
ENERGY
Most of a cities area is covered by roofs, which are well suited to install photovoltaic panels. South facing facades too. These can supply electricity to the grid.
Cogeneration, geothermal and district energy sharing are efficient solutions.
Waste recycling and energy extraction.
Locally sourced food supplies management.
District heating networks are more efficient.
OFFSETTING
Trees and plant absorb CO2 and generate oxygen. Adding greenery in cities can offset a part of the CO2 produced. They also produce shade and moisture. They also have a positive effect on people and their interactions.
Flat roofs can be planted. Furthermore cities can offset more by planting in rural areas nearby.