Mitigate Carbon Emissions Research Articles

Analyzing the effect of clean cooking fuel and technologies on carbon emissions in G20 countries

Growing concerns about energy scarcity and indoor air pollution have paved the way for adopting clean cooking fuel and technology at several remote locations. Realizing the immense potential of clean cooking in mitigating carbon emissions, this research explores the relationship between clean cooking fuels and technologies and carbon emissions among G20 nations. By utilizing the data from 2000 to 2020, the research employs static panel data models, including random-effect and fixed-effect regressions, and Driscoll-Kraay standard errors with fixed effects regression to address econometric challenges such as cross-sectional dependence and heteroscedasticity. The results indicate that greater access to clean cooking fuels and technology can significantly reduce emissions from CO2, highlighting the importance of Liquified Petroleum Gas and renewable energy alternatives such as biogas, and solar cookstoves in mitigating environmental damage. Additionally, the study explores the impact of several control variables such as population size, human development, internet usage, forest cover, renewable energy consumption, urbanization, trade openness, GDP per capita, and foreign direct investment on environmental degradation. The results suggest that while population growth and internet use exacerbate CO2 emissions, higher levels of human development, renewable energy consumption, and forest cover can reduce environmental degradation. The research underscores the significance of embracing clean energy solutions and sustainable practices to achieve long-term environmental sustainability and meet global climate goals.

The Impact of Dual Environmental Regulations on Carbon Intensity: A Global Perspective

Greenhouse gas emissions are a leading cause of global warming, posing significant threats to both the natural environment and the sustainable development of global economies and societies. Environmental regulations have been crucial in reducing these emissions and improving ecological conditions. This study presents the first theoretical analysis of the mechanisms through which formal and informal environmental regulations influence carbon intensity. A panel data model was constructed to empirically test and analyze the impact of these regulations on carbon intensity across 118 countries. The findings reveal that both formal and informal environmental regulations exerted a reduced influence on global carbon emission intensity, affirming their significance in promoting energy conservation and emission reduction. Moreover, a synergistic effect was observed between the two types of regulations, indicating that their coordinated enforcement could further mitigate carbon emission intensity. Regional analysis revealed that formal environmental regulation exhibited a dampening effect on carbon emission intensity in both high- and low-carbon countries. However, the moderating impact of informal environmental regulation was found to be markedly stronger in low-carbon countries compared to their high-carbon counterparts. The synergy between these two forms of regulation had a more pronounced influence on the carbon emission intensity of high-carbon countries, underscoring their potent emission reduction effect when implemented in tandem. The insights gained from this study can aid policymakers in developing effective environmental policies aimed at realizing energy conservation and emission reduction goals, thereby contributing to the mitigation of global warming and the promotion of sustainable development.

How do we improve the reproducibility and accuracy of EIS and Tafel testing in corrosion science?

Electrochemical is crucial in corrosion, energy storage, and electrocatalysts and are essential for mitigating carbon emissions. However, deviations in electrochemical testing can result from experiment errors and electrode preparation differences. Therefore, electrochemical experiment results are required to assess the reproducibility. Herein we found that the surface resistance is a key factor of electrochemical testing, and the difference of surface resistance could inform future anode oxidation devices, and enhance the reproducibility and accuracy of electrochemical testing.Graphical

Synergistic effects of carbon and heat under disturbance of human activities: Evidence from a resource-based city of China.

For resource-based cities, the rapid development of industrialization and urbanization has led to significant carbon emissions (CEs), accelerated the rise of urban land surface temperatures (LSTs) and hindered sustainable urban development. This study constructed a model to measure the carbon-heat relationship to clarify the complex relationship between LSTs and CEs in resource-based cities. The results show that:1) High-temperature areas are primarily concentrated around the urban center and large industrial zones, with average LSTs reaching a peak of 35.7°C in 2015, indicating severe temperature polarization; 2) CEs exhibited an overall upward trend with a diffusion effect, particularly pronounced in the urban center and industrial zones. Areas with extremely significant, strong significant, and generally significant growth in CEs accounted for 4.64%, 3.81%, and 81.35%, respectively, showing a concentrated increase in the urban center; 3) A positive correlation between CEs and LSTs of the city was identified, and the distribution of urban heat island and the high value area of CEs are concentrated and similar; 4) The synergistic effects between LSTs and CEs varied between urban center, suburban and peripheral areas, due to human activities. Areas with a high positive correlation between CEs and LSTs are concentrated in urban centers and peripheral areas, while for urban suburbs, the correlation is weak or even absent. To mitigate the negative effects of carbon-heat accumulation, urban centers should avoid high population concentrations, and the carbon sink potential of green spaces near industrial zones and peripheral areas should be fully utilized. These insights provide actionable strategies for sustainability of resource-based cities, particularly in the governance of urban thermal environments and the mitigation of CEs.

Impact of urban trees on carbon dioxide exchange: Mechanistic pathways, environmental controls, and feedback.

The increase of carbon dioxide (CO2) concentration in the atmosphere is held responsible for global climate changes. To meet the objective of achieving carbon neutrality and keeping global warming in check, many cities, as hotspots of CO2 emissions, have been promoting the use of urban greenery, urban trees in particular, to mitigate carbon emissions from the built environment. However, there remain large uncertainty and divergence of the potential of urban trees for carbon mitigation, with the underlying mechanisms poorly understood. In this study, we conducted a comprehensive survey of the biophysical functions, their environmental controls, and possible heat-carbon-water feedback that mechanistically govern the CO2 exchange processes of trees in the built environment. This review helps to clarify some disparities and enables us to gain clearer insights into the participatory role of urban trees in the dynamics of CO2 exchange. In addition, we proposed a few guidelines for urban planning and management strategies of using trees to promote the sustainability of urban ecosystems.

From pollution to sustainable environment: unlocking the role of energy intensity and renewable energy in highly pollutant nations

Abstract Environmental degradation is among one of the most critical issues of recent times. To address this critical challenge in highly pollutant nations, this research inquires about the role of Energy Intensity (EI) along with Renewable Energy Consumption (REC) and non-REC as controlling indicators in the carbon emissions’ model. The research is significant because it provides potential information to energy policymakers for mitigating the adverse effects of environmental degradation. The Cross-Sectional Dependent (CSD) test is utilized to authenticate the CSD in the variables and the Slope Heterogeneity (SH) test is applied to verify the heterogeneous relationships across the polluted economies. Moreover, CSD-based unit root tests are applied to confirm the stationarity of the series. The CSD-based cointegration test is applied, which cares for both CSD and SH in analysis. Lastly, CSD-based regressions are applied to find the long and short relationships. A period of 1990–2021 is utilized for data analyses as per data availability of all analyzed countries. The results demonstrate significantly increasing effects of EI on emissions leading to mitigated environmental quality. A 1% increase in EI increases emissions by 0.6227%. However, renewable energy significantly mitigates carbon emissions while non-REC is found to significantly escalate carbon emissions. A 1% increase in REC mitigates emissions by 0.2458% and a 1% increase in non-REC raises emissions by 0.65%. This research further confirms the evidence of the Environmental Kuznets Curve (EKC) with an income elasticity of 13.1393 and income square elasticity of -0.6209. The results of EI, REC, and non-REC are similar in all estimations while the validity of the EKC is witnessed in two out of three models. The causal relation suggests feedback between emissions and economic progress, EI, REC, and non-REC, which highlights the interdependence of the energy sector and environmental outcomes. This research suggests that governments of the investigated polluted economies should impose taxes on non-renewable energy consumption. The revenues from these taxes should be utilized to subsidize renewable energy consumption. Both initiatives would help reduce energy intensity in these polluted economies to condense the environmental consequences of the energy sector.

Spatiotemporal analysis of the impact of green finance on carbon dioxide emissions based on panel data of cities in China

ABSTRACT Green finance represents a resource-saving and environmentally friendly economic approach. It plays a critical role in achieving economic growth and environmentally sustainable development. To investigate its tangible effects on China since the implementation of green finance, we utilized the nighttime lighting (NTL) data to evaluate urban CO2 emission of Chinese cities from 2010 to 2020. Then, this study utilized the geographically and temporally weighted regression (GTWR) model to examine the correlations between green finance and carbon intensity in different cities across four dimensions including green credit, green insurance, green investment, and government support. The findings revealed significant regional disparities in the influence of green finance development on carbon intensity. Overall, both green credit and green insurance emerge as pivotal factors in mitigating carbon intensity. Notably, green credit exhibits the strongest mitigation of carbon intensity in the eastern region, while green insurance demonstrates the highest impact in the western region. However, government support has a negative effect, while the impact of green investment impact is insignificant. These findings underscore the importance of implementing region-specific strategies to bolster the efficacy of green finance in mitigating carbon emissions.

Central leaders’ attention and carbon emission mitigation: evidence from China

ABSTRACT Within the hierarchical system of China, local governance actions are fundamentally shaped by the attention of political leaders at upper levels. The potential impact of central leaders’ attention on local governments and the mechanism of transmission have not been thoroughly explored. Based on panel data from 30 Chinese provinces spanning 2007 to 2019, this study has adopted the attention theory to empirically examine the relationship between central leaders’ attention and local governance actions, thereby validating influencing mechanisms. The results indicate that the increased attention of central leaders would promote local governments to mitigate carbon emissions, which passed a series of robustness tests. Furthermore, the analysis of influencing mechanisms reveals that central leaders’ attention could mitigate local carbon emissions through three pathways: economic scale, industrial structure, and technological capacity. Therefore, this study has contributed to understanding the relationship between central leaders’ attention and local governance actions within China’s hierarchical system, offering valuable insights for achieving the targets of carbon peak and carbon neutrality.

Building a Sustainable Future: The Nexus Between Artificial Intelligence, Renewable Energy, Green Human Capital, Geopolitical Risk, and Carbon Emissions Through the Moderating Role of Institutional Quality

Countries worldwide are focusing on energy efficiency, economic sustainability, and responsible resource management to address climate change and meet sustainable development goals (SDGs). This study investigates how factors such as artificial intelligence, renewable energy, green human capital, geopolitical risk, natural resource rent, and information and communication technology influenced CO2 emissions in 36 countries between 2000 and 2021. The study also explores how institutional quality moderates these relationships. We employed advanced econometric techniques to address this gap, including panel-correlated standard errors (PCSE) and the Driscoll–Kraay estimations (DKSE) models. A two-step system GMM approach was also used to strengthen the robustness of our findings. The findings reveal that green human capital, renewable energy consumption, and institutional quality can significantly reduce CO2 emissions. Conversely, artificial intelligence, geopolitical risk, natural resource rent, and information communication technology contribute to increased CO2 emissions. Institutional quality enhances the positive impact of green human capital and renewable energy on emission reduction. However, it has the opposite effect on artificial intelligence, leading to an even greater increase in CO2 emissions. These findings underscore the importance of green policies in achieving sustainable development goals. We recommend that policymakers prioritize investing in clean energy and green human capital while strengthening institutional quality to effectively mitigate carbon emissions and meet SDGs. They also regulate AI and ICT carbon footprints and address geopolitical risks through energy diversification and international cooperation.

Optimal Scheduling of the Microgrid Based on the Dynamic Characteristics of the Natural Gas Pipeline Network and the Thermal Network Along with P2G-CCS

In the power system, the integration of power-to-gas and carbon capture systems (P2G-CCS) within the microgrid enables the conversion of electrical energy into hydrogen or methane while simultaneously capturing CO2 emissions from power generation units. This approach significantly mitigates carbon emissions and supports the transition to a low-carbon energy system. Concurrently, the dynamic properties of the gas–thermal network exert a critical influence on the flexibility of system scheduling and the regulation of multi-energy coupling. Hence, this paper puts forward an optimal configuration strategy for microgrids with consideration of the dynamic characteristics of the gas–thermal network. Firstly, mathematical models for the dynamic characteristics of the gas network and the heat network were established and incorporated into the microgrid system. Secondly, in conjunction with the P2G-CCS coupling system, an optimization scheduling strategy was formulated with the aim of minimizing the total operational costs of the power grid, the natural gas network, and the heat network. An enhanced African vultures optimization algorithm (AVOA) was put forward. In the end, by setting different scheduling scenarios for conducting a comparative analysis, an appropriate optimization configuration scheme was selected, and the validity of the proposed method was verified through simulation with the improved case study.

Exploring a Novel Adsorbent for CO2 Capture and Gas Separation.

The urgent need to mitigate carbon emissions has spurred research into small-pore zeolites as cost-effective options for CO2 capture by solid adsorbents, particularly in postcombustion and biogas separation applications. In this study we investigate levyne (LEV-type) zeolite, a largely unexplored material for CO2 adsorption, as a novel adsorbent for CO2 capture and gas separation. Using seed-assisted synthesis approaches and different synthesis conditions, nanosized and micron-sized LEV zeolites were synthesized and characterized in terms of synthesis pathways, morphology, crystal size, and chemical composition. The variation of the Si/Al ratios and chemical compositions of the synthesized LEV zeolites resulted in significant differences in their CO2 adsorption capacity and separation selectivity. Micron-sized LEV, with a lower Si/Al ratio = 3.5 and a higher Na+ content, exhibited superior CO2 uptake and stronger interactions with CO2 than the nanosized LEV (Si/Al = 6.6). Dynamic adsorption measurements using breakthrough curve analysis revealed that the micron-sized LEV exhibited twice the CO2 adsorption capacity of its nanosized counterpart, along with higher CO2/N2 and CO2/CH4 selectivities. This enhanced performance, including better cyclability, emphasizes the critical role of the zeolite Si/Al ratio in improving adsorption and separation properties. In situ FTIR measurements supported these findings, showing that the nanosized LEV predominantly adsorbs CO2 by physisorption, allowing efficient desorption using He flow only. In contrast, micron-sized LEV primarily physisorbs CO2 but also exhibited chemisorbed CO2, reflective of the more highly charged framework (higher Al content) and extra-framework cation content. These results highlight the importance of synthesis strategies in optimizing the properties of LEV zeolite, making them promising candidates as physical adsorbents for gas separation applications.

Performance enhancement of single slope solar still with sensible heat storage system: An experimental investigation under climatic conditions of Northeast India

Abstract This study conducts an experimental assessment to investigate the influence of black gravel and cylindrical cement fins as thermal heat storage materials in a single slope solar still in this current study. The trials are performed under the meteorological conditions of North-East, Silchar (24.76° N, 92.80° E), India. The performance of each modification was evaluated experimentally and compared to a conventional solar still (CSS) at three different water depths in the basin: 2 cm, 4 cm, and 6 cm. The study assessed the cumulative distillate output, along with a 4E analysis (energy, exergy, economic and ecological analysis) of the solar stills. The outcomes show that at a 2 cm water depth, the daily yield and efficiency of the solar still with black gravel (SSBG) are 27% and 18% higher, respectively, when compared to the CSS. Additionally, the solar still with cylindrical cement fins (SSCCF) achieved the highest daily production of 4462.4 mL/m2 with an efficiency of 41.5%. The cost assessment disclosed that the cost per liter of distillate water produced by SSBG and SSCCF is 18% and 23% lower, respectively than the CSS at a water level of 2 cm. Moreover, the SSCCF improved carbon credits by 26% and enhanced carbon emission mitigation by 110.87% compared to the CSS at the same water depth. Solar stills equipped with energy storage provide a cost-effective solution for tackling water scarcity.

Advancing adaptive facades for a sustainable future in building design

The essential need to mitigate carbon emissions has brought the energy performance of the building sector into focus. Conventional static façades, which are unable to adapt to dynamic external conditions, often compromise energy efficiency and occupant comfort. In contrast, adaptive façades present a groundbreaking opportunity to transform building design by responding dynamically to environmental stimuli, optimizing energy consumption, and enhancing indoor conditions. This paper explores the recent advancements in adaptive façade systems, emphasizing their potential to improve thermal comfort, daylight performance, and most essential the energy efficiency. In addition, this paper highlights the transformative role of quantum energy and smart materials in advancing façade performance and sustainable design. Overall, this paper underscores the potential of using adaptive façades to transform sustainable building practices, offering architects, researchers, and designers a roadmap for integrating innovative and energy-efficient solutions into the built environment.

Investigating the role of financial development in mitigating carbon emissions across diverse financial economies

Investigating the role of financial development in mitigating carbon emissions across diverse financial economies

Assessing the role of production capacity in mitigating carbon emissions: a case study of Algeria

This study examines the relationship between productive capacity and CO2 emissions in Algeria, addressing the pressing challenge of sustainable development in the context of climate change. The aim is to explore how enhancing production capacity can influence environmental outcomes, particularly in terms of carbon emissions. To achieve this, the study employs an Auto Regressive Distributed Lag (ARDL) model, with results validated through an Error Correction Model (ECM), using data from 1990 to 2023. The findings reveal that improvements in productive capacity contribute to a long-term reduction in CO2 emissions per capita. However, an increase in energy consumption has the potential to undermine these gains, underlining the need for greater energy efficiency. Key policy recommendations suggest prioritizing investments in energy-efficient technologies, thereby enhancing Algeria’s productive capacity while minimizing environmental impact. This framework provides a valuable pathway for aligning economic growth with sustainable environmental practices, offering actionable insights for policymakers aiming to balance development with climate goals.

Natural and anthropogenic factors controlling organic carbon storage in riverine wetlands along South Korea’s four rivers

This study explores carbon sequestration in South Korea’s riverine wetlands, focusing on the four major rivers: Han, Yeongsan, Geum, and Nakdong. Field data from the Yeongsan River wetland, including 3D topography surveys, grainsize analyses, and loss-on-ignition measurements, were used to assess carbon stocks and their environmental drivers. The Yeongsan River was selected as a representative site due to its geomorphological, hydrological, and climatic similarities with the other three major rivers, which influence sediment transport and carbon dynamics. Carbon stocks of 3.31 megagrams (Mg) per hectare, observed in the Dam-Yang Stream Wetland, suggest that the four major rivers collectively have the potential to store approximately 23.42 million metric tons of carbon annually, accounting for 3.9% of South Korea’s carbon budget. Geomorphological features at different elevations significantly influence soil carbon storage, with finer sediments contributing to higher carbon retention in low-energy environments. Seasonal variations in stream geomorphology, driven by floods and tropical cyclones, are dominant factors regulating sediment transport and organic matter deposition. Our findings suggest that controlled discharge events could enhance sediment and organic material retention, boosting carbon sequestration across riverine wetlands. This study highlights the critical role of geomorphological and hydrological processes in enhancing wetland carbon storage and mitigating carbon emissions.

Investigating the Role of Financial Development in Mitigating Carbon Emissions across Diverse Financial Economies

Investigating the Role of Financial Development in Mitigating Carbon Emissions across Diverse Financial Economies

Unlocking Hydropower’s Potential: Retrofitting Infrastructure and Harnessing Unconventional Sources for Clean Energy Transitions

Abstract Hydropower holds a pivotal role within the water-energy nexus for facilitating the clean energy transition, particularly in unconventional and retrofit opportunities. As a renewable energy source, hydropower contributes to decarbonizing the energy sector while simultaneously supporting water management objectives. By integrating hydropower generation into existing infrastructure such as water supply systems, weirs, irrigation networks, and wastewater treatment facilities, synergies can be leveraged to optimize resource utilization and enhance system resilience. This further offers some options for diversifying the electricity mix and speeding up the clean energy transition. However, the complex interaction between water availability and energy production necessitates careful planning and adaptive strategies to mitigate risks associated with climate variability and changing demand patterns. Unlocking the potential of hydropower through these unconventional and retrofitting opportunities is thus instrumental in advancing sustainability goals and ensuring the success of clean energy transitions in the face of various challenges. By leveraging existing infrastructure and exploring innovative solutions, countries stand to significantly enhance its energy resilience and reduce its carbon footprint. Moreover, such initiatives align with broader international objectives, including the Paris Agreement’s vision of transitioning to a zero-emission society by 2050 and the European Union’s FIT for 55 targets. Under these considerations, this paper seeks to explore the potential of retrofitting existing infrastructure and harnessing unconventional hydropower sources with examples in Czechia, South Africa and Türkiye to address electricity shortages, mitigate carbon emissions, and contribute to the broader clean energy transition agenda. The insights gained from this analysis can inform policy frameworks, investment strategies, and technological innovations aimed at fostering sustainable energy practices.

Green hydrogen production for sustainable development: a critical examination of barriers and strategic opportunities

As the world endeavors to meet ambitious climate targets and mitigate carbon emissions, green hydrogen stands out as a versatile and scalable solution offering a viable pathway toward sustainable development.

Carbon reduction effect of comprehensive land consolidation and its configuration paths at the township level: A case study of Zhejiang Province, China.

Changing land use is one of the main factors influencing global climate change and the imbalance in the carbon cycle. Consequently, the focus of international organizations and the academic community is on strategies to mitigate carbon emissions or improve carbon sequestration by optimizing land use structure and function. Since 2019, China's Zhejiang Province has implemented a township-level pilot policy, exploring a comprehensive land consolidation (CLC for short) pilot policy that includes all elements of "mountains, rivers, forests, farmlands, lakes, and grasslands." This project aimed to increase the efficiency of land use while at the same time fully exploiting the carbon storage potential. However, there is a notable lack of knowledge about the feasibility of the CLC pilot policy to reduce carbon emissions, as well as the specific configuration conditions required for its success. This study examines data from 704 townships in Zhejiang Province, China, spanning the period from 2015 to 2022, innovatively constructs an explanatory framework for the interaction between the peripheral "society-economy-ecology" system and the core "human-land-industry" system. On this basis, employing Double/Debiased Machine Learning (DML) and Fuzzy-Set Qualitative Comparative Analysis (fsQCA), this study uncovers the impacts of the CLC pilot policy on carbon emissions and its configuration paths. The results show that: (1) The CLC pilot policy has a significant negative impact on carbon emissions. Implementing the CLC pilot policy leads to an average reduction of 1.850 tons per capita carbon emissions in the pilot townships. This conclusion remains robust even after conducting tests for robustness, endogeneity, and placebo effects. (2) The configuration paths for achieving high-efficiency carbon emission reduction through the CLC pilot policy mainly include four modes: ecological restoration, periphery-driven, aggregation and enhancement, and characteristic protection. (3) A single "economy" factor alone is not enough to drive the reduction of carbon emissions. This study provides a theoretical research perspective and practical reference for the CLC pilot policy targeting the Chinese government's "dual carbon" goals and provides empirical support for policy formulation.