Chapter 22 - Reducing Carbon Emissions From Oxford City: Plans and Tools

Abstract

This chapter reviews two key initiatives undertaken in the historical city of Oxford (UK) to bring about reductions in energy-related CO2 emissions on a city-wide scale. The author has been part of both the initiatives. A GIS-based DECoRuM® (domestic energy, carbon-counting and carbon-reduction model) model has been developed, demonstrated and validated by implementing in existing dwellings in Oxford. It was implemented to estimate and map baseline energy use and CO2 emissions on a house-by-house level, identify "pollution" hotspots, predict the potential for reductions in CO2 emissions and monitor reductions achieved as a result of deploying energy efficiency measures and renewable energy systems. Area-based carbon emission reductions will require concerted action by all sectors of the community. In fact most of the measures required to reduce CO2 emissions will be implemented at the city level, working with city councils since they have the ability to make communities more energy efficient by using their influence over the community and existing statutory powers. A GIS-based CO2 model extended to the whole of Oxford would enable the City Council to track progress and assess the emission reductions achieved. Therefore, work on building the GIS CO2 model should be commissioned as soon as possible. Undoubtedly, these experiences from Oxford provide a useful example for other cities in their endeavor for emission reductions. But importantly these initiatives also make the case for all to do their bit as urban city dwellers, since the delivery of emissions reductions would require a partnership approach across a city, with all sectors including individuals fully engaged in taking forward an agreed action plan.