Embrace Decarbonization to Keep Growing Cities Healthy and Safe for All

Two things are true.

One, cities are massive contributors to climate change. They consume 78% of the world’s energy in some form and are responsible for north of 60% of greenhouse gas emissions, says UN Habitat.

And two, this issue is going to get even trickier to manage. By 2050, more than 70% of the world’s population will live in cities.

But the great news is city builders are working hard to decarbonize now to improve city life for all and prepare for the future.?

For instance, to tackle the increased greenhouse gas emissions and air pollution from fossil-fuel-powered delivery vehicles on city streets resulting from the increase in online shopping since the pandemic, the National League of Cities recently released its Decarbonizing Delivery of Goods Municipal Action Guide. It’s packed with suggestions for decarbonizing – tech-focused and policy ideas for governments to consider, as well as ways the private sector can jump in.?

Like how Gotcha Mobility allows small businesses in Baton Rouge, La., to rent e-bikes by the day rather than by the minute or hour to make this delivery option more attractive. Or, how cities can use curb management parking and idling techniques to encourage delivery companies to use zero emission vehicles.

The World Green Building Council says operational emissions from buildings are responsible for 28% of global energy related carbon emissions.To help lower this, AtkinsRéalis created Decarbonomics, an approach that uses data and AI-enabled carbon-emission dashboards to help building owners see where they can cost-effectively reduce carbon emissions and how decarbonization efforts in their buildings are performing.

And we’re always encouraged to see cities and towns embracing alternative energy sources. Such as the Town of Raymond, Alberta, population 4,136, which became a net-zero community in 2018 by installing solar panels to power its facilities and streetlights.?

Want to hear from experts with insights into how to manage the growth of cities while achieving net-zero goals? Then check out CityAge’s Urban Zero event in Vancouver on Feb. 6, as well as this summary report from CityAge’s recent Decarbonize Houston event.