Sustainable Pathways Research Articles

A review of green hydrogen production by renewable resources

Abstract This comprehensive review delves into the burgeoning field of green hydrogen production through the utilization of renewable resources. As the global demand for clean and sustainable energy escalates, green hydrogen has emerged as a promising solution, garnering significant attention due to its potential to decarbonize various sectors. The study encapsulates a thorough exploration of the key methodologies employed in harnessing renewable sources such as wind, solar, and hydroelectric power for hydrogen generation. The analysis encompasses both technological aspects and environmental implications, shedding light on efficiency, scalability, and feasibility. Moreover, the review evaluates the economic viability and policy frameworks that underpin the integration of green hydrogen into existing energy systems. By synthesizing findings from a multitude of research endeavors, this study underscores the current advancements, challenges, and future prospects in the realm of green hydrogen production. Ultimately, this review not only contributes to a deeper understanding of sustainable energy pathways but also provides insights that can guide the evolution of green hydrogen technologies toward a more environmentally conscious and energy-abundant future.

Sustainability transitions in consumption-production systems.

The need for faster and deeper transitions toward more sustainable development pathways is now widely recognized. How to meet that need has been at the center of a growing body of academic research and real-world policy implementation. This paper presents our perspective on some of the most powerful insights that have emerged from this ongoing work. In particular, we highlight insights on how sustainability transitions can be usefully conceptualized, how they come about and evolve, and how they can be shaped and guided through deliberate policy interventions. Throughout the paper, we also highlight some of the many how questions that remain unresolved and on which progress would be especially helpful for the pursuit of sustainable development. Our approach to these "how" questions on sustainability transitions draws on two strands of solution-driven research and policy advice: one emerging from studies of how human societies interact with nature and the other emerging from studies of how those societies interact with their technologies. Consumption-production systems have been a focus of extensive work in both strands. To help build bridges between them, we recently brought together a cross-section of relevant scholars for a PNAS Special Feature on "Sustainability transitions in consumption-production systems." Their contributions are summarized in a companion paper we have written to introduce the Special Feature [F. W. Geels, F. Kern, W. C. Clark, Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. U.S.A. (2023)]. We draw on that work in the Perspective we present here as well as our reading of the relevant literatures.

Abstract 17730: Facilitated Peer Mentoring: A Novel Model for Promoting Equitable and Inclusive Mentoring for Underrepresented Trainees in Academic Medicine

Introduction: Underrepresented minoritized(URM) cardiologists represent less than 8% of the US cardiology workforce. A positive role model, access to mentorship, and a diverse workforce influences the choice of cardiology as a subspecialty. Recognizing this, we established a novel facilitated peer-mentoring research group, the “Ogunniyi Research Group (ORG),” with the goal of creating a supportive and inclusive learning environment for trainees to develop cardiovascular research proficiencies. Methods: Our team consists of a lead mentor(cardiologist), 2 co-facilitators(cardiology fellows), and 4 resident-led teams of medical students and residents(Figure 1). Our mission is to advance cardiovascular health and equity through research, advocacy, and service; built on core pillars of mentorship, scholarship, leadership, community, and service. Mentees complete an individual development plan and meet regularly with the lead mentor to ensure milestones are met. Teams engage in research and quality improvement projects, which are reviewed at virtual monthly meetings. Quarterly academic medicine research seminars focus on building research skills. Results: 26 trainees participated during the 2021-22 and 2022-23 academic year. Most trainees (>95%) self-identified as Black, with equal sex representation. Major accomplishments include >16 abstracts presented at conferences, co-authorship on >10 publications, and several prestigious awards, grants, honors, and scholarships. 4 team members were selected as chief medical residents. To date, we have secured 100% residency and cardiology fellowship match rate. Conclusion: Our novel, multilevel, facilitated peer mentoring group has increased access to research and professional development opportunities, especially for URM trainees interested in cardiology. The ORG can serve as a model sustainable pathway for equitable mentorship, promoting diversity and inclusion in the cardiology workforce.

Climate vs Energy Security: Quantifying the Trade-offs of BECCS Deployment and Overcoming Opportunity Costs on Set-Aside Land.

Bioenergy with carbon capture and storage (BECCS) sits at the nexus of the climate and energy security. We evaluated trade-offs between scenarios that support climate stabilization (negative emissions and net climate benefit) or energy security (ethanol production). Our spatially explicit model indicates that the foregone climate benefit from abandoned cropland (opportunity cost) increased carbon emissions per unit of energy produced by 14-36%, making geologic carbon capture and storage necessary to achieve negative emissions from any given energy crop. The toll of opportunity costs on the climate benefit of BECCS from set-aside land was offset through the spatial allocation of crops based on their individual biophysical constraints. Dedicated energy crops consistently outperformed mixed grasslands. We estimate that BECCS allocation to land enrolled in the Conservation Reserve Program (CRP) could capture up to 9 Tg C year-1 from the atmosphere, deliver up to 16 Tg CE year-1 in emissions savings, and meet up to 10% of the US energy statutory targets, but contributions varied substantially as the priority shifted from climate stabilization to energy provision. Our results indicate a significant potential to integrate energy security targets into sustainable pathways to climate stabilization but underpin the trade-offs of divergent policy-driven agendas.

Sustainability pathways in European waste management for meeting circular economy goals

This study explores trends in recycling rates and municipal solid waste landfilling to construct a circularity index (CI) forecasted up to 2035. This projection is contrasted with the pathways that countries must adopt to attain set targets. We further estimate the impact of the CI on factors such as sustainability performance, innovation, commodity trade balance, and waste reduction. Moreover, we provide policy implications useful for designing industrial and environmental strategies, including accelerating permit approval times for waste treatment facilities, introducing more flexibility in state aid rules, empowering service users or waste generators, implementing tax credits, and leveraging specialized funds. These strategies are aimed at supporting the recycling industry to stimulate convergence and achieve circular economy objectives.

Enhancing sustainable livelihoods in the Three Rivers Headwater Region: A geospatial and obstacles context

Applying novel approaches to assess the sustainable livelihood potentially contribute to learning and managing social-ecological systems. This research demonstrates the trajectory of sustainable livelihoods in the Three Rivers Headwater Region (TRHR) of Western China for a period of 2003 to 2017, utilizing a bespoke Sustainable Livelihood Index (SLI). Devised through a top-down data collation method, the SLI integrates comprehensive official statistics, encompassing socio-economic metrics alongside climatic and other environmental conditions. We employed spatial visualization and cold hotspot analysis to discern the spatio-temporal nuances of the SLI. Furthermore, the Obstacle Factor Analysis (OFA) was implemented to identify salient barriers impacting the SLI. Results indicated a steady rise in the SLI over the examined period, indicating progressive enhancements in the livelihood sustainability. However, marked disparities were observed across the TRHR counties, reflecting heterogeneity in socioeconomic progress and resource allocation. While Yushu county displayed commendable growth, Jiuzhi county stood out as a significant cold spot. Notably, natural and financial resources surfaced as paramount stresses to SLI progression, emphasizing the necessity for robust resource management and economic support. Key challenges, such as the grassland carrying pressure index, deteriorated grassland territories, and per capita disposable income were identified as critical obstacles to the sustainable livelihood of pastoral communities. These factors collectively influence economic viability, grassland resource stewardship, and human capital development, which are intertwined with local economic gains and future potentials. In nutshell, this study highlights the multifaceted challenges faced by the TRHR in charting sustainable livelihood pathways and champions recalibrated policies to protect natural assets, amplify economic support, reinforce human capital, and nurture regional synergies for sustainable evolution. The key insights suggest the pressing need for innovative, nature-based solutions that amplify regional-scale livelihood resilience, especially considering the challenges related to natural assets, financial support, and human capital development.

A Review on Advances in Biocontrol Techniques for Managing Insect Pests in Sustainable Agriculture

Biocontrol techniques represent a vital avenue in the quest for sustainable agricultural practices. This approach, integrating ecological intelligence with modern scientific advancements, is seeing increasing adoption in various regions, notably in India. Drawing inspiration from nature's own mechanisms, biocontrol employs specific organisms or their biological derivatives to manage and mitigate pests, thereby decreasing the dependency on chemical agents. Through an in-depth exploration of biocontrol applications, this study places a special emphasis on India's initiatives and contrasts them with global endeavors. Noteworthy examples include the innovative use of parasitic wasps to combat the papaya mealybug menace in Tamil Nadu, the strategic application of fungi like Trichoderma for disease control in Maharashtra, and the successful introduction of parasitoid wasps to manage olive flies in regions like California. Rooted in foundational ecological principles, these methodologies exhibit potential benefits that span improved crop yields, economic viability, and most importantly, reduced environmental adversities. Effective deployment and scaling of these techniques require an integrated approach, emphasizing collaboration among researchers, farming communities, and industry stakeholders. By presenting a detailed analysis of these synergistic efforts, this review accentuates the transformative potential of biocontrol. As the global community faces the dual challenges of an expanding population and the unpredictable impacts of climate change, the promise of biocontrol looms large, offering a sustainable pathway for the agriculture of the future.

Analytical fast pyrolysis of P. Juliflora: A thermal and catalytic study

Thermal and catalytic fast pyrolysis of Prosopis juliflora (P.juliflora), fractions namely wood, seed pods, leaves and their mixtures (wood: seeds: leaves at 80:10:10, and seeds: leaves at 50:50) were investigated. Fast pyrolysis tests were performed in a py-GC/MS to study the product distribution at 450, 500 and 550 °C. Further catalytic tests at 500 °C, used HZSM-5, 1 wt% Ni-HZSM-5 and 5 wt% Ni-HZSM-5, and the wood fraction as feedstock. For all the non-catalytic thermal tests, significant proportions of acids, ketones, aldehydes, sugars, alcohols, phenols, nitrogenous compounds (NITs) and other oxygenates were observed. Out of the three Prosopis fractions studied, the wood at 500 °C yielded the highest amount of ketones, aldehydes and phenolics (78.67%), whilst the mixture (wood: seeds: leaves at 80:10:10), yielded 83.04%. This suggests that Prosopis feedstock can be processed as a mixture thus eliminating the need for pre-separation. The catalytic tests were completed at 500 °C with catalyst: biomass ratios (C/B) of 3:1, 6:1 and 9:1. The use of zeolite-based catalysts, improved the product distribution by forming aromatic hydrocarbons (monocyclic) and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) thus reducing the proportion of oxygenates detected in the thermal tests. The addition of nickel to the zeolite catalyst (9:1 C/B ratio; 5 wt% Ni-HZSM-5), resulted in aromatics and polyaromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) yields of 60.28% and 27.50%, respectively. Overall, the tests using Ni-loaded zeolites showed selectivity towards aromatics, as higher proportions were obtained when compared to PAHs. Our results correlated the influence of specific components in the individual fractions of Prosopis (wood, seeds, and leaves) on the pyrolysis products. We established the potential of using an invasive plant to yield aromatics, which are main components for biofuels production, thus proposing a sustainable pathway to manage its spread and to yield a high-value product.

A combined evaluation of energy efficiency, customer satisfaction and food waste in the healthcare sector by comparing cook-hold and cook-chill catering

The healthcare sector greatly impacts the environment through energy, transport, product use, disposal and food service. This requires significant interventions to reduce energy consumption and waste generation and increase customer satisfaction simultaneously. Considering the need to investigate food waste amounts and energy consumption in hospitals, the present research has a triple goal. First, it evaluates energy consumption and efficiency by comparing cook-hold and cook-chill catering. Second, it estimates the customer satisfaction of the served meals and third, it assesses the food waste quantities at lunch and dinner among hospital patients. Specifically, the research combines (a) the evaluation of the energy consumption, based on primary data collected in a cooking center with a production capacity of 1590 meals per production cycle; (b) the investigation of the consumers’ behavior among 984 patients located in nine different hospital units in Southern Italy; (c) the measurement of food waste based on questionnaire-survey data. Results highlight the reduction in diesel consumption (– 42%) and in electricity consumption (– 93%), as well as the reduction in food waste (– 85%) when comparing cook-hold with cook-chill catering. This research illustrates a guideline in the field of efficient catering. It helps identify sustainable pathways and interventions toward energy efficiency, customer satisfaction, and food waste minimization for policymakers, healthcare professionals, catering companies or patients.

Paving the green path: A novel approach to material manufacturing using LCA

Perovskite oxides have garnered immense interest across diverse fields owing to their exceptional properties. Among these, SrTiO3 is an excellent photocatalyst under UV light and boasts remarkable thermal stability, rendering it ideal for high-temperature applications. While various synthesis methods exist for SrTiO3, prioritizing environmentally friendly processes, even at the laboratory scale, remains crucial.This study introduces a pioneering life cycle assessment (LCA) comparing six SrTiO3 synthesis techniques (solid-state reaction, sonochemical, sol–gel, hydrothermal, solvothermal, and molten-salt) to gauge their environmental impacts, pinpoint potential concerns, and offer insights for the future. Interestingly, methods like molten salt and sol–gel display higher pollution tendencies due to significant energy usage, particularly during drying and calcination stages. Conversely, the solid-state reaction and ultrasound-assisted methods emerge as sustainable pathways for crafting environmentally conscious SrTiO3 materials. Significantly, electricity emerges as a pivotal factor influencing environmental impact, urging the exploration of alternatives and the need for strategic decisions. This investigation not only sheds light on the ecological footprint of SrTiO3 synthesis but also underscores the urgency for adopting greener approaches in materials manufacturing.

How user innovation communities contribute to sustainability transitions. An exploration of three online communities

Online user communities have given rise to a new form of peer network collaboration. This paper examines three user innovation communities to assess their contribution to sustainability transitions, particularly in terms of exploring sustainable technical solutions and their integration into society. We study three user innovation communities by analysing internet forum interactions and conducting member interviews. To assess the impact of these communities, we use the technological innovation systems framework as an analytical perspective. Our analysis shows that user communities encompass a wide range of innovation activities and show great variation in their profiles: from strongly technology-oriented, rather anonymous networks to very broad-based communities that actively influence policy discourse, public acceptance and the social embeddedness of technologies. We conclude that innovation policy makers should recognise the transformative potential of this type of innovation and harness its potential to open up and explore alternative and more sustainable pathways.

Modeling and Optimization of Chlorpyrifos by Fungi Isolated from Agricultural Soil, Elucidating their Degradation Pathways by LC-MS-Based Metabolomics

Chlorpyrifos is a moderately hazardous insecticide to humans (Class II) by the World Health Organization (WHO) due to its acute toxicity still we are using cost-competitive and widely available suitable for various agro-climatic conditions, especially in arid regions of India. Our study explores the sustainable biodegradation pathways of biodegradation of chlorpyrifos-contaminated soils so that a novel chlorpyrifos-degrading fungus was isolated and identified as Aspergillus and Fusarium with the unique capability to degrade Chlorpyrifos. Identification of C1 and C2 two fungal strains, followed by isolation and characterization of CP and TCP degrading fungi through efficient biodegradation method. By LC-MS analysis the m/z values of sample TCP detected in culture medium and soil Aspergillus and Fusarium were able to completely mineralize Chlorpyrifos and its metabolite TCP from C1 and C2 culture grown in Mineral medium after 7 days of incubation soil without formation of any known intermediates. This study supports the idea that soils contaminated with Chlorpyrifos could be remedied effectively using fungi that break down Chlorpyrifos. Hence, this fungal consortium can be a valuable bio-augmenting agent to clean up Chlorpyrifos contaminated sites and helps in the sustainable management of natural resources.

Optimal Allocation of Territorial Space in the Minjiang River Basin Based on a Double Optimization Simulation Model

The unequal distribution of territorial space resources stands out as a leading cause of the human–land contradictions and environmental degradation. These issues are especially pronounced in the Minjiang River Basin, which exhibits significant regional disparities. In pursuit of solutions to these pressing problems and the identification of sustainable developmental pathways, this study presents an innovative territorial space double optimization simulation model. This model integrates quantity structure optimization and distribution pattern optimization, in order to comprehensively consider the optimization of territorial space allocation and build a new territorial space pattern for the Minjiang River Basin in 2030. On this basis, we employed the Patch-generating Land Use Simulation (PLUS) model and scenario analysis method to design the double optimization scenario and natural development scenario. By comparing these two scenarios, and calculating the ecological benefits (EB), economic benefits (ECB), carbon storage (CS), and comprehensive benefits (CB) achieved in different scenarios, the validity of the double optimization model was fully verified. The results indicated that: ① the loss of sub-ecological space (PeS) under the natural development scenario was significantly larger than that under the double optimization scenario, and the loss should be mainly attributed to the large expansion of production space (PS) and living space (LS); ② the area of ecological space (ES) has reduced since 2020, but less area was lost and the retention rate was higher under the double optimization scenario; ③ the natural development scenario made the research region gain more ECB, but it also resulted in the loss of more EB and CS, whereas the Minjiang River Basin under the double optimization scenario was able to effectively balance the relationship among the three, thus achieving the best CB. The research findings provide strong scientific support for alleviating the human–land contradictions, protecting the ecological security in the basin, and promoting the sustainable development of the region.

Understanding the Role of Base Species on Reversed Cu Catalyst in Ring Opening of Furan Compounds to 1, 2-Pentanediol.

The hydrogenation of biomass-derived furan compounds provides a sustainable pathway for the production of various valuable chemicals; product selectivity among multiple reaction pathways of furan compound hydrogenation is crucially dependent on catalytic sites; however controlling reaction pathways remains challenging due to the lack of identification and understanding of active sites. In this work we reveal the role of base sites in furfural selective hydrogenation through deliberately designed and synthesized reversed catalysts, basic metal oxides and hydroxide on Cu. It is demonstrated that base species greatly enhanced the selectivity of 1, 2-pentanediol (1, 2-PeD) from furfural, presenting a nearly fourfold increase of 1, 2-PeD: methyl furan ratio over the Cu based reverse catalysts. A combination of infrared spectroscopy and DFT calculations demonstrates the strong interaction between the C-O-C bond in furan ring and the catalyst surface in preferentially parallel adsorption mode in the presence of base species on Cu, thus facilitating the activation of C-O-C bond to produce 1, 2-PeD. This work provides a strategy of designing reversed catalyst to study the effect of promoters and reveals the role of base sites in the hydrogenation of biomass-derived furan compounds to diols.

A lighthouse to enhance the quality of life in the Nile River basin

AbstractThe future of large rivers is related to regional cooperation programs for the sustainable development of water and related resources in great river basins. The objective of this article is to present how roadmaps can be utilized for both building up sustainable development for the Nile River, and supporting the integration of national and regional development strategies in Egypt and other Nile basin countries. The strategic objective is to highlight a wide range of sustainable freshwater pathways for an inclusive, peaceful, and sustainable future for all. In particular, it focuses on generating innovative water solutions, actions, and practices that enhance water exploitation in large river basins, transboundary shared rivers, and other transboundary shared water resources. The roadmapping approach is adopted and developed widely in the science, technology, and innovation community. The paper concentrates on roadmapping as an important tool that promotes sound planning of sustainability of large rivers, and in particular, transboundary shared rivers. The roadmap analyzes the benefits of planning shared water cooperation that extends to ecological, economic, and political features, and also beyond the river for the benefit of all, and identifies at an early stage the actions needed to manage the associated technology and environmental risk. The roadmap includes the key water resources governance characteristics, geographical scope, climate change (CC), and its impact, member states, organizational structure, decision-making, data information sharing, monitoring, the role of multiple stakeholders, financing, legal basis, dispute resolution, and benefit sharing. Therefore, a roadmap for the Nile River can help raise productivity and support faster growth, if considered as a lighthouse for national development strategies. Roadmap for the Nile River proposes windows of opportunity and is a vital milestone for cooperation, peace, stability, joint investment, and prosperity. With possible benefits exceeding those derived from the river itself, a roadmap for the Nile River can catalyze strengthened cooperation and greater regional ecological, economic, social, and political integration. The paper concludes that the roadmap for the Nile River sustainability (NRS) is a promising model for assuring the sustainability of transboundary shared large rivers.

Can smart city planning enhance the sustainable transition of the E.U. capitals? A project and strategy-based smart, sustainable performance analysis in the programming period 2014-2020

Abstract Cities across the globe perceive their opportunities for digital transition pathways. This paper presents a project and strategy-based assessment of smart city ambitions in the light of sustainable urban development pathways in the European Union capitals considering the programming period 2014-2020. The purpose of the research is to understand better the smart city trends in Europe and identify any correlation between smart city and sustainability ambitions through the European capitals. The basis of the research was the official project result platforms of European funds with priorities related to smart cities. The collected best practices of transnational smart city projects provide statistics from the previous programming period and draw attention to the developing trends of smart city functions and the activity level of European capitals in the digital transition. Results show that between 2014 and 2020 nearly half of the capitals owned a specific smart city strategic document. Evaluating the smart urban performance of the capitals, it can be stated that most smart solutions were implemented related to mobility and environment in the previous period. Furthermore, it was also considered whether smart city projects could facilitate the shift toward sustainability. Based on the assessment of their planning strategies, a complex image of the European capitals has been revealed in their smart city development concepts; their strategic-level planning can be understood better, which is essential for policymaking in the era of digitalisation, identifying synergies with sustainable urban development ambitions, and monitoring the reached targets at the city level.

PARK CITY LEADS THE WAY OF URBAN DEVELOPMENT AND INNOVATION IN CHINA

Cities have been the cradle of human civilization, with ongoing efforts to achieve the ideal city. Park cities prioritize “public” and “fair” principles in urban governance, emphasizing people-centered and livable spaces. This paper explores research hotspots and trends in park city evolution to support sustainable spatial planning. Analyzing 2278 articles covering country cooperation, research topics, and practices, the initial focus is on eco-city development, shifting towards ecological restoration and sustainable cities. Research focuses on urban gardens, ecological/cultural services, green spaces, and spiritual comfort. China’s park city construction faces challenges in spatial patterns, ecological functions, and human settlement, requiring attention in planning and management. More data, methods, and experiences are needed to inform science-policy planning in urban management, advancing sustainable pathways for people and nature.

Exploring Sustainable Development Pathways for Agri-Food Supply Chains Empowered by Cross-Border E-Commerce Platforms: A Hybrid Grounded Theory and DEMATEL-ISM-MICMAC Approach.

As cross-border e-commerce platforms become increasingly integrated into the agricultural supply chain, the establishment of a sustainable supply chain ecosystem is of paramount importance. This study, grounded in the platform theory and the supply chain ecosystem theory, combines the grounded theory and the DEMATEL-ISM-MICMAC model to thoroughly analyze the complex mechanisms driving sustainable development. Utilizing the grounded theory, we construct a system of driving factors comprising five primary indicators and eighteen secondary indicators. The hybrid model reveals the interrelationships, significance, system hierarchy, and dependence-driving relationships among these factors. Notably, the driving factor system is categorized into a six-level hierarchical structure, encompassing profound elements, such as policy optimization and digital empowerment, as well as surface-level factors, such as simplification of customs procedures and consumer demand forecasting. Based on the analysis results, this research proposes a set of pathways to achieve the sustainability of the supply chain. These strategies involve improving cross-border agricultural e-commerce policy frameworks, enhancing digital-driven supply-demand coordination, strengthening logistics infrastructure and transparency, and cultivating brand influence. The study's findings not only enrich the relevant theories but also provide practical guidance for the coordinated advancement of economic, social, environmental, and resilient development. Furthermore, they are conducive to advancing the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.

Nanoparticles of poly(3-hexylthiophene): Toward a solvent-independent performance of electrochromic films

Nanoparticles of poly(3-hexylthiophene), P3HT(NP), uniquely enable the preparation of stable dispersions in environmentally-friendly media and thus offer a sustainable liquid phase fabrication of electrochromic device structures. In this work, we assess the electrochromic performance of P3HT(NP) films spray-coated from either tetrahydrofuran (THF)-water or chloroform (CHCl3)-ethanol dispersions on ITO substrates. The nanoparticle films exhibit consistent and reproducible high optical contrast values of around 50 %, t90-switching speeds of about 0.45 s and a cycling stability of approximately 200 cycles for a 20 % performance retention, independent of the solvent being used. Conversely, non-nanostructured P3HT films spray-coated from THF or CHCl3 reveal a strong solvent dependent variability in their electrochromic behavior presenting low optical contrast, high switching speeds and fast degradation rates in the case of CHCl3. The solvent independent electrochromic characteristics of P3HT nanoparticle films is related to a consistent availability of accessible electroactive sites provided by a homogeneous porous P3HT network structure formed on the underlying substrate, as probed by SEM and profilometric studies. Our findings reveal that the use of nanoparticles of P3HT and its environmentally benign liquid phase processing, a concept which is extendable to other electrochromic polymers, opens a sustainable pathway toward the large-area fabrication of electrochromic device structures with favorable and consistent performance parameters.

Sustainable development pathways for energies in Yangtze River Delta urban agglomeration

The sustainable development of urban agglomerations plays a pivotal role in national and global efforts to reduce emissions. By focusing on the efficient exchange and optimization of energy consumption across various sectors, the sustainable development of energy systems within urban agglomerations can be achieved. However, the overall impact of the cross-sector energy optimization and complementarity has not been quantitatively analyzed. Here, we focused on the Yangtze River Delta (YRD) urban agglomeration in China and proposed an optimization framework for energy, environment, and economy. The framework considered four sectors: transportation sector, power sector, industry sector, and building sector, in order to determine the most sustainable development pathway for the urban agglomeration. The optimization model considers total costs and greenhouse gas emissions reduction as the objectives and utilizes technologies as constraints to optimize the pathway. We found that this optimization strategy resulted in a 53.1 billion tons increase in CO2 emissions reduction in the region. The results of emission reduction varied across sectors, ranging from 4.5 to 22.2 billion tons CO2 equivalent, and across cities, ranging from 7.1 to 4688.1 Mt. The results suggest that the core cities in the urban agglomeration can take on a leadership role. By promoting cross-sector collaboration and implementing energy recycling, the energy efficiency of surrounding cities can be greatly improved, leading to the sustainable development of the urban agglomeration.