Spatial compactness and carbon emission: Nighttime light satellite‐based exposure assessment

Abstract

Scholars of urban sustainability are increasingly interested in the influence of spatial configuration on local environmental performance, with a focus on urban compactness. Spatial compactness with urban density boosts energy‐efficient construction and infrastructure, subsequently encouraging lower carbon emissions. In this study, we first documented the distributional pattern of spatial compactness in the prefectures of Japan using refined measurement and nighttime light satellite data, which is a more consistent indicator of economic activities. Further, we investigate the underlying impact of this compactness on the local carbon emission intensity with quantitative evidence. The regression results indicate that higher compactness in a prefecture corresponds to lower carbon intensity even in different settings. Moreover, robustness checks verify the consistency of the abatement effects. Additionally, the mitigating role of compactness presents a heterogeneous pattern across sectors. The effect is statistically significant only in the manufacturing and household sectors. These findings add to the value of urban compactness and offer important policy implications for addressing sustainable societies in the long term.