The Impact of Public Transportation on Carbon Emissions—From the Perspective of Energy Consumption

Abstract

Background: Transportation has become the second-largest source of global carbon emissions. Promoting low-carbon development by means of public transport and green travel and analyzing the mechanism and path of the carbon emissions reduction effect of public transport have become key to reducing carbon emissions in the transportation field and achieving “carbon peak and carbon neutrality”. Methods: The data from 30 provinces (2010–2019) were extracted from China Emission Accounts and Datasets (CEADs), China Energy Statistical Yearbook, China Statistical Yearbook, and China Automobile Statistical Yearbook. The two-way fixed-effect model was used to explore the carbon emissions reduction effect of public transport development level. The mediating-effect model was used to verify the transmission role of energy consumption in the carbon emissions reduction effect of public transport development level. Results: The study suggests that the public transport development level and CO2 emissions are negatively correlated, showing an “Inverted U-shaped” curve relationship. Energy consumption is the transmission path of the carbon emissions reduction effect of public transport development level. The public transport development level adjusts the energy consumption structure through the traffic substitution effect, energy input optimization effect, and industrial structure optimization effect and then acts on carbon emissions. Moreover, the contribution rate of energy consumption is about 4.22%. In addition, regional heterogeneity is present in the transmission path of the carbon emissions reduction effect of public transport development level based on energy consumption. The carbon emissions reduction effect of public transport development level is more significant in the central and western regions than the eastern and northeast regions of China. Conclusion: The transmission mechanism of energy consumption in the carbon emissions reduction effect of public transport is worthy of attention. To promote low-carbon and circular development in the transportation sector, it is urgent to accelerate the green upgrading of transportation infrastructure, promote the low-carbon transformation of energy production and consumption, promote carbon emissions reduction in public transport, and strengthen the linkage regulation between effective government and an effective market.

CFD Simulation Study on the Cooling Characteristics of Shading and Natural Ventilation in Greenhouse of a Botanical Garden in Shanghai

“…The greenhouse of the botanical garden not only performs as a carbon sink by plants consuming CO 2 , but also turns into a carbon source by consuming cooling/heating energy to maintain the indoor temperature. As it adopts natural ventilation and utilizes shading cooling measures, compared with traditional cooling by air conditioning systems, it has the potential to greatly reduce carbon emissions [25].…”

Beyond traffic jams: public perceptions of Jabodetabek Commuter Line (KRL) System for sustainable urban development

“…The environmental friendliness of the KRL system was another positive aspect noted by the participants. They recognized the system's contribution to reducing air pollution and mitigating regional traffic congestion [3]. The use of electric-powered trains was particularly appreciated, as it aligned with their desire for a more sustainable and environmentally conscious mode of transportation.…”

“…Positive perceptions of the KRL system, such as affordability, convenience, and environmental friendliness, can lead to increased public transportation usage and greater support for sustainable transportation policies. When residents view the KRL system as a viable and attractive transportation option, they are more likely to choose it over private vehicles, resulting in reduced traffic congestion, air pollution, and carbon emissions [2,3,8,12]. This increased usage of sustainable transportation options contributes to achieving sustainable urban development goals by creating more liveable, environmentally friendly, and socially inclusive cities.…”

“…Despite significant advancements in expanding and modernizing the rail network, there remains a considerable research gap in understanding how the public perceives the KRL system as a sustainable transportation solution. In order to ensure that the system effectively supports sustainable urban IOP Publishing doi:10.1088/1755-1315/1263/1/012027 2 development goals, it is crucial to conduct additional research and gain a more comprehensive understanding of the public's perspectives and knowledge concerning the sustainability aspects of the KRL system [2,3]. This research will provide valuable insights that can be used to inform strategies and initiatives to enhance the system's sustainability and promote its alignment with broader urban development objectives.…”

“…Positive perceptions have the potential to act as catalysts, stimulating increased ridership and garnering greater support for sustainable transportation policies [5]. This positive momentum, in turn, can significantly contribute to urban development by alleviating traffic congestion, reducing carbon emissions, and promoting creation of an environmentally friendly and liveable city [3]. Conversely, negative perceptions can serve as barriers, impeding the system's widespread adoption and hampering progress towards sustainable urban development.…”