Urban emission reduction and carbon management

Abstract

Urban emission worldwide gradually converts the urban ecosystem into an urban heat island. In the world, 50% of the human population would live in cities. Consequently, 3% of the geographical area is under an urban setup. This accounts for 75% of the world's energy demand causing 70% emission of carbon dioxide (CO2). According to one estimate, adding a 1-hectare land area under an urban setup is being increased per minute across the globe. Further, the estimates suggest for every 5days the geographical area of Paris is achieved, and the annual expansion of the area of Japan is accomplished. According to the latest climate change action plan for 5years (2021–25) of the World Bank, the urban setup has been identified as a potential source of greenhouse gases (GHGs) emissions that may create significant challenges toward climate change mitigation. Such modifications have made the urban environment mostly nonhostile for indigenous flora and fauna. Urban vegetation comprises trees, herbs, shrubs, climbers, and agricultural species in the form of an agroforestry system. It is a biological unit that provides multiple benefits both annually and perennially. Urban forestry and agroforestry practices have also shown the potential to act as a carbon sink that would help to reduce the atmospheric CO2 load. At present, urban agroforestry is gaining more importance in terms of various ecological services, developing green architecture under urban setups, and helps to mitigate climatic extremes. Hence, urban forestry and agroforestry practices may play a significant role in developing sustainable cities and food production. © 2024 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.