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The building sector is critical in climate change mitigation by reducing its energy consumption. At the same time, warming climate requires adaptation measures from buildings, making it necessary to study the future thermal energy demand of buildings. This paper studies the impact of climate change on the thermal energy demand of buildings in a heating dominated climate of Finland, under "representative concentration pathway" (RCP) climate scenarios in near- (2030), medium- (2050) and long-term (2080) horizon. Additionally, the impact of the thermal performance level of the buildings is investigated. The thermal energy demand calculation is based on overarching standards from the European "energy performance of buildings" directive. The weather scenarios present both typical and extreme weather years, applied through morphing and future weather data from the Finnish Meteorological Institute. The results show that annual thermal energy demand in Finland in 2080 can decrease up to 74.6 kWh/m 2. In addition, the decrease in heating demand will be higher than the increase in cooling demand. Cooling can become the dominant peak in long-term evaluations, especially in South Finland (Vantaa) with passive buildings under RCP8.5 climate scenario. Renovation is the most efficient action to decrease energy intensity, the earliest it is done the better. [Display omitted] • Thermal energy demand of detached houses in Finland is studied under RCP climate scenarios. • Thermal energy demand is expected to decrease in Finland in long-term. • RCP scenario affects when the highest average annual thermal energy change occurs. • Cooling can become the dominant thermal peak demand source for passive buildings. • Renovating building to newer standards remains beneficial, though less with time. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As China actively fulfills its emissions reduction obligations to meet the Paris climate goals, it is crucial to explore carbon reduction policies at the city level, given the important role and potential of cities in China's emissions reduction efforts. In this study, a comprehensive assessment and prediction of carbon emission patterns in the Pearl River Delta urban agglomeration was conducted by developing an integrated model that incorporates graph representation learning, factorial analysis, and random forest methods. The main findings are (1) there is significant heterogeneity in carbon emissions across industries and across time and space; (2) carbon clusters can more accurately characterize the flow of carbon emissions than carbon supply chains; (3) the nonmetallic manufacture, electricity supply and transportation industries play a decisive role in carbon emission reduction; and (4) the prediction results show that the carbon emissions of the Pearl River Delta urban agglomeration will reach 349.2 million tons in 2021, and will then show a declining trend year by year, dropping to a projected 179.8 million tons in 2035. Based on the above findings, it is recommended that the monitoring of key carbon emission clusters should be strengthened, and the monitoring data should be utilized to establish a cross-city and cross-industry cooperation mechanism for emission reduction. In addition, a clear set of action plans and strategies should be formulated and implemented to ensure that the carbon emission targets for 2035 are realized. [Display omitted] • ►A graph-factor-based random forest model (GRFM) is developed. • ►Carbon emissions have significant sectoral and spatial-temporal heterogeneity. • ►Electricity supply is the largest carbon emitter. • ►Developed economies such as Guangzhou, Dongguan, Foshan dominate carbon emissions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Air pollution control measures play a crucial role in reducing air pollution and climate change, but researches on co-benefits of Total Control of Major Air Pollutants (TCMAP) in China is limited. This study quantifies synergistic benefits of TCMAP in reducing pollutant and carbon emissions by constructing a project-level emission reduction database, and further modelling safeguard strategy of emission reduction to achieve dual carbon target. Results revealed that TCMAP has facilitated a shift in the focus of air pollutant management from energy restructuring to deeper industrial and transportation restructuring. Synergistic benefits of TCMAP surpassed Carbon dioxide (CO 2) emissions from end-of-pipe treatment measures. As a result of rigorous implementation of TCMAP, approximately 0.12 GtCO 2 emissions were projected to be avoided in 2022. Synergistic reductions of 5,161 kt pollutants need to be achieved by 2030, and this commitment should be further strengthened to achieve 11,352 kt pollutants by 2060 to achieve dual-carbon target. [Display omitted] • Atmospheric control turned to transportation and industrial structure adjustment. • TCMAP pathway achieved synergistic carbon reduction 0.12 GtCO 2 in 2022. • Synergistic benefits of TCMAP far outweigh the end-treat measures that produce CO 2. • More ambitious TCMAP target safeguards needed for climate change mitigation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There is urgent need for the transformation of built environments to tackle climate change. The reduction of greenhouse gas emissions to achieve the Paris Agreement goal of limiting warming to well below 2 °C is of paramount importance, as is planning for future climate change risks. Architects, as designers of the built environment hold an important role in advocating and enabling the necessary mitigation and adaptation actions required in the design and construction of new buildings, and the reuse of existing built fabric – to reduced embodied carbon and achieve operational energy efficiency. Despite the importance, most built environments do not yet adequately address climate change. Limited research has examined the barriers that architectural professionals encounter when integrating climate change action in their projects during their role designing built environments. This is the gap that this research addresses. Interviews with twenty-two Australian architectural practitioners were undertaken, to investigate their experience of barriers to and facilitators of climate change action in their professional practice. Four key themes were found: 1) actors, 2) processes and structures, 3) information and knowledge, and 4) the role of government. Barriers and facilitators were found to be embedded in architects' perception of their role, the processes and practices they undertake, and their relationship with other stakeholders. The facilitators identified can assist drive better outcomes for future design and construction of buildings. Recommendations identified include: 1) build architects' confidence and capability to be advocates; 2) develop of architects' climate change knowledge and competence; 3) transform design processes to be more circular, interdisciplinary and long term focused, and 4) reform current built environment policy to adequately consider climate change. [Display omitted] • Architects are crucial to achieving climate change action, but there is limited information on how to achieve this. • This study interviewed Australian architects about the barriers and facilitators they face to climate change action. • Key barriers for architects to enable change include limited influence, reach and decision-making capabilities. • Barriers and facilitators to climate action are influenced by both internal and external factors. • Identifies initiatives to facilitate climate change action: building knowledge and capacity, and transforming design processes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Adopting net zero neighborhoods (NZN) combined with circular economy are increasingly recognized as an essential strategy for construction companies, allowing their transition towards sustainability and contributing to climate change mitigation. Transforming existing neighborhoods into NZN is necessary to achieve energy self-sufficiency and net zero by 2050. The success of NZN hinges on government initiatives. However, existing studies appear to lack a comprehensive exploration of the transformation initiatives within NZN, spanning aspects like raw materials, construction practices, transportation, and waste management, particularly in terms of technological advancements. To address the gap, this research introduces a conceptual framework that integrates the multiple case studies design method with an urban transformative capacity model. This innovative framework is the first application of a multi-level urban transformative capacity model in transforming existing neighborhoods into NZN within a specific region. This research specifically utilizes South Wales in the UK as a case study. It identified four key initiatives in technology, construction, transportation, and waste management. These initiatives offer significant benefits, including fostering a more sustainable and environmentally friendly construction industry through enhanced traceability and efficiency, and simultaneously promoting social sustainability by improving community engagement, providing social benefits through sharing economy initiatives, and creating new green job opportunities. [Display omitted] • This study aims to apply CE principles to create net zero neighborhoods. • A conceptual framework is proposed for transforming existing neighborhoods into NZN. • The method integrates multiple case studies and urban transformative capacity model. • This research uses South Wales in the United Kingdom as a case study. • The innovative initiatives can drive successful transformations in the target city. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To effectively mitigate climate change, policymakers worldwide established various GHG tracking and trading systems. In the light of ambitious climate goals, stricter regulations, and increasing demand for climate action, various groups such as researchers and governmental institutions suggested additional approaches. This paper addresses the complexity that arises from the breadth of suggested approaches and implemented systems for GHG tracking and trading. By doing so, it synthesizes relevant dimensions in a way that is understandable to enterprises and policymakers, enabling them to design meaningful systems incorporating the reduction of GHG emissions and advance cleaner production. Therefore, this paper presents a first-of-its-kind taxonomy of GHG tracking and trading approaches through a systematic literature review. It illustrates ten main design and implementation dimensions with 30 corresponding characteristics. To accelerate decarbonization, this paper sets impulses for future GHG tracking in the electricity sector based on semi-structured expert interviews. Consecutively, it provides policy directions for CO 2 -adaptive decision-making for enterprises, formulated as a Call for Action with seven prospective questions. These include, for example, questions concerning technical aspects like data management, legal issues like the sufficiency of existing data security and privacy regulations, as well as economic topics like the calculation of an appropriate local and temporal granularity. • Presenting a first-of-its-kind taxonomy of GHG tracking and trading approaches through a systematic literature review. • Creating targeted knowledge for enterprises and policymakers for designing meaningful systems to reduce GHG emissions. • Setting impulses for future GHG tracking in the electricity sector based on semi-structured expert interviews. • Providing policy directions for CO 2 -adaptive decision-making for enterprises, formulated as a Call for Action. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, a stepwise clustered ensemble temperature downscaling (SCETD) model has been proposed based on a stepwise cluster analysis method (SCA) and used for the first time to study the extreme temperature variations at 12 stations in the Yangtze River Basin (YRB). The results show that the proposed model can be used to generate reliable forecasts of daily maximum, minimum, and mean temperatures based on CMIP6 data (R 2 > 0.96). Temperatures in the Yangtze River Basin are likely to maintain a significant upward trend (Tmean is 0.082–0.23 °C/decade under SSP245 and 0.094–0.46 °C/decade under SSP585) in the future. In terms of extreme temperature events, extreme warm events may happen more frequently and extreme cold events to decrease in the future under SSP245 and SSP585. A more significant increase of FD and TNn can be observed in the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau region, while the TXx and SU will grow more considerably in the central Yangtze River region under both scenarios. Semi-arid regions (Qinghai-Tibet Plateau) are more sensitive to climate change. The changes of SU and TXx are significantly smaller than FD and TNn under both SSPs scenarios. The obtained results will be of great significance for responding to international climate goals, formulating emission reduction policies, adopting adaptation measures and international cooperation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Indigenous lands play a leading role in conserving biodiversity and mitigating climate change, which is fundamental for Brazil and the world. However, the Marco Temporal law n° 14.701/23 argues that Brazilian indigenous peoples only have the right to demarcate lands that were in their possession or disputed at the time of the promulgation of the 1988 Constitution. To assess the possible impacts of the Marco Temporal law, we used Ecological Niche Modeling techniques to predict the distribution of endangered terrestrial vertebrates, evaluating the percentage of those species that are protected by Indigenous lands. Furthermore, we quantify the carbon stock in these areas using a spatially explicit model generated by the Random Forest algorithm developed within the MapBiomas Solo project. Our results confirm the importance of Indigenous lands in protecting biodiversity, hosting more than 85 % of Brazilian endangered terrestrial vertebrates. Furthermore, we highlight the relevance of these lands in combating climate change, having a significantly higher carbon stock than Brazilian conservation units. If applied, the approval of the Marco Temporal law could generate legal uncertainty, threatening the health of several Indigenous ethnicities and increasing conflicts due to land exploitation. To effectively fulfill international commitments to conserve biodiversity and mitigate climate change, the Brazilian government must make the demarcation and protection of Indigenous lands and guarantee the constitutional rights of original peoples a central political priority on its agenda. [Display omitted] • Indigenous lands are as effective as conservation units in protecting endangered species and climate change mitigation • The demarcation and protection of Indigenous lands guarantee Indigenous people's constitutional rights • The legal uncertainty in indigenous lands threatens biodiversity conservation, especially in the Amazon's arc of deforestation • Demarcating Indigenous lands helps Brazil meet international biodiversity conservation and climate change agreements. • Amazon's Indigenous lands effectively protect threatened terrestrial vertebrate species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The escalating pace of climate change and biodiversity loss has energized endeavors to expand protected areas. Recent studies find that agricultural land may play a vital role in tackling climate change and promoting biodiversity. However, most agricultural protection areas (APAs) are implemented based solely on agricultural production characteristics, and there are limited strategies that incorporate other conservation goals. We combined Systematic Conservation Planning (SCP) principles, optimization algorithms, and the Ecosystem Service framework to identify potential APAs and explore the trade-offs in promoting the multifunctionality of agricultural land. We conducted our study in the Treasure Valley, Idaho, where we generated four optimization scenarios. 1. Agricultural Productivity 2. Climate Mitigation 3. Wildlife Habitat 4. Combined Ecosystem Services. We compared the four scenarios based on their a) ability to protect cultivated land, b) potential to contribute to climate mitigation, c) protection of important biodiversity habitat, and d) economic cost. We found that the Climate Mitigation, Wildlife Habitat, and Combined Ecosystem Services scenarios protected a more even distribution of ecosystem services without sacrificing the amount of cultivated land protected. We found that the Agricultural Productivity scenario resulted in the lowest total cost; however, the other scenarios protected a larger area at a lower cost per unit area. The inclusion of multiple objectives showed strong potential to help reach global conservation goals. Our work adds to the body of literature on the role of private land in protecting natural resources and is a starting point for future research to guide agricultural land protection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • The harvesting efficiency achieved 99.2 % with the application of 60 g/L of FMT@DTAB. • PVDF integrated with extractants demonstrated enhanced butyric acid mass transfer. • Butyric acid showed improved mass transfer coefficient in PVDF with extractants. • PVDF-TDA achieved a 60 % recovery efficiency for butyric acid with 60 g/L of FMT@DTAB. Syngas fermentation utilizing acetogenic bacteria like Clostridium sp. provides a promising method for transforming CO and CO 2 -rich waste gases into valuable products such as short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) and bio-alcohols, aiding in the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions and supporting carbon neutrality objectives. Magnetic nanoparticle-based coagulants, particularly Fe 3 O 4 @MIL-100(Fe)@TEOS@DTAB (FMT@DTAB), have recently attracted attention due to their efficient recovery and enhanced cell disruption capabilities enabled by cationic surfactant surface modifications. At a dosage of 60 g/L, FMT@DTAB has proven highly effective in achieving significant concentrations of acetic acid (7.06 g/L), butyric acid (6.27 g/L), ethanol (6.43 g/L), and butanol (5.24 g/L), along with notable harvesting efficiency (99.2 %) and intracellular ATP concentration (2.1 mM). Recent research on supported liquid membrane contactors highlights their cost-effective and environment-friendly properties, with an emphasis on minimal extractant usage. This study investigated the behavior of SCFAs using both virgin and supported liquid membrane contactors, focusing on factors such as organic extractant and membrane pore size. PVDF filled with tridodecylamine notably improved butyric acid recovery to around 60 %, with a mass flux of 14.95 ± 0.28 g/m2/h, outperforming virgin and other extractant-filled PVDF membranes. This study enhances resource efficiency and reduces industrial environmental impacts by optimizing the recovery and production of valuable chemicals from waste gases. It supports sustainable and economically viable biotechnology applications, aligning with global climate change mitigation efforts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article presents the results of a systematic literature review following the PRISMA protocol and answering the research question of how climate change or energy security considerations affect public attitudes towards nuclear energy. 82 articles published in English since 2011 and indexed in scientific databases were selected for the review. After providing quantitative bibliometric information, we conduct thematic analysis to describe qualitatively the main research themes traceable in the literature, using individual articles to illustrate research trends and tendencies. By synthesizing existing social scientific knowledge, we conclude that public support for nuclear energy is generally negatively associated with climate change concerns and positively associated with concerns for energy security. Moreover, the higher the perceived benefits of nuclear energy for energy security and, to a lesser extent, for the mitigation of climate change, the more open or (sometimes reluctantly) favorable attitudes towards nuclear energy are. However, differences between countries have also been observed. We critically discuss existing gaps regarding the objects of study, methods, and role of theory to outline needful research avenues in future. The review contributes to a broader – inter- and transdisciplinary – debate on nuclear energy technologies as a possible means of coping with global climate change and energy security challenges. • Climate change researched more than energy security as a determinant of attitudes. • The public concerned about climate unconvinced nuclear presents a solution. • Energy security often persuades as an argument for nuclear energy. • Social research into emerging nuclear technologies is underdeveloped. • The research field needs methodological integration and stronger theorizing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To motivate public participation in climate change mitigation, both "carrot" policies that create positive incentives for mitigated carbon and "stick" policies that create negative incentives for emitted carbon have been widely applied. Given the joint deployment of these measures, a key question is whether they are compatible with each other. Focusing on the Low-Carbon Reward Scheme (LCRS) and carbon taxes, two prominent proposals on China's climate policy agenda, this study evaluates how one incentive policy affects public support for the other. The results of a large survey experiment with Hangzhou residents indicate a two-way crowding-out effect, wherein introducing the LCRS diminished support for the tax, albeit primarily among LCRS proponents, and introducing the tax reduced support for the LCRS. Aligning with the proposed account, crowding out was driven by a decrease in policy effectiveness and fairness perceptions. These findings reveal a contradictory relationship between carrot and stick policies at the citizen level and illuminate the underlying mechanism. • Both carrot and stick policies are applied to motivate climate mitigation behaviors. • We identify a two-way crowding-out effect between these policies in public opinion. • Introducing a stick (carbon tax) reduces support for a carrot (low-carbon reward). • Introducing a carrot reduces support for a stick among people favoring the carrot. • Crowding out is driven by weakened policy effectiveness and fairness perceptions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Methane seeps are highly productive ecosystems that provide carbon sequestration services, host diverse communities including endemic species, and serve as habitats for commercial fisheries. Little is known about the economic value the public places on them. Discrete Choice Experiments (DCEs) are administered to a sample of Costa Rican taxpayers to evaluate their willingness to pay (WTP) in monetary terms using tradeoffs made in a survey context involving three of the main attributes of methane seep ecosystems to provide insights for future conservation and management efforts. Extensive effort is devoted to understanding how Costa Ricans view different aspects of the deep sea. We find that they associate it with strange animals, natural resources, the unknown, and being far from reach. Perhaps surprisingly, they underestimate how much they know about the deep sea. We find that WTP for methane seep protection is the highest for programs that protect seeps with endemic species, followed by seeps with high climate change mitigation potential and commercial fishing habitat. Higher-income groups and women are more likely to prefer options that increase the current level of protection. We discuss how science communication and community engagement contribute to care expressed toward the deep sea. • Methane seeps provide important ecosystem services and economic values. • Costa Ricans are willing to pay for methane seep conservation. • Human connection and highest WTP were associated with existence values. • WTP increased with knowledge, suggesting a key role for science communication. • Management efforts should consider deep-sea literacy and non-use values. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Municipal climate policies tie in closely with sustainable urban development. Land use has far-ranging impacts on carbon emissions from mobility, housing, and consumption; as well as climate resilience, carbon sinks, and biodiversity. While compact city is well-established as the dominant strategy for climate-wise planning, a parallel approach focused on greening and its climate advantages is gaining prominence. However, there is little empirical evidence on how municipal climate policies address the relationship between these often conflicting strategies. This study examines how compacting and greening are motivated and how greening is negotiated in relation to compacting in the six largest cities in Finland. Based on a qualitative content analysis of municipal climate action plans (CAP), we show that the primacy of compacting as a strategy is not questioned, however, the importance of greening is increasingly underlined. We demonstrate that the relationship between compacting and greening policies is framed by three main discourses: 1) compacting while protecting the green, 2) greening the built-up structure for adaptation purposes, and 3) greening as a multifunctional strategy parallel with compacting. The study contributes to the topical debate on the integration of compacting and greening and to the need for cross-sectoral and systemic climate-wise policies in general. • Compacting and greening policies are examined in municipal climate action plans. • Compacting is dominating climate actions, though greening is gaining ground. • The tension between compacting and greening is hidden and specifically reframed. • Three discourses are identified to negotiate greening in relation to compacting. • These are compacting while protecting, adaptive greening and multifunctional greening [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Since the Paris Agreement, European member countries have been committed to mitigating climate change and adapting to its effects. Climate action planning allows cities to organize their approach. It is critical to ensure that investments in infrastructure and services have a low-carbon impact and consider likely climate change perspectives. The output of this process is the climate action plan (CAP): one or more documents where a city sets out its roadmap to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and strengthen climate resilience throughout the community. Many cities have already developed and published a Paris Agreement-compatible CAP. The quality and compliance of these plans will also influence the achievement of the goals of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC, 2015). Thus, cities are crucial players in global climate change mitigation and adaptation efforts, and how they engage in climate policy is currently under debate. The paper is intended to support technological design, selecting good practices from the latest and most complete ones for climate mitigation and adaptation in urban settings. In particular, the paper focuses on public space and built environment regeneration actions that can tangibly contribute to the global climate resilience movement. Considering the operational difficulty that could arise in planning climate adaptation measures in historical urban contexts, the study critically analyzes current strategies in sedimented landscape realities of high cultural-historical value. The goal is to draw from them a cognitive and expeditious method of intervention that can be reiterated for similar contexts and is compatible with the consistency and value of urban and built heritage. The theme is timely and falls into Sustainable Development Goals No. 11 (sustainable cities and communities) and No. 13 (climate action). • The paper analyses the most recent studies and scientific papers on climate action plans. • Good practices for climate mitigation and adaptation in urban settings are critically investigated. • The study analyses current strategies in sedimented landscape realities of high historical and cultural value. • A toolkit is proposed that can be repurposed for similar contexts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• First study to comprehensively address climate strategies for the O&G upstream sector in Brazil. • Decarbonization scenarios are simulated using a national Integrated Assessment Model (IAM). • O&G production can be sustained without compromising national decarbonization goals, but CO 2 and CH 4 emissions reductions must exceed simulated efforts to match industry leaders. • Ample potential to offset emissions through reforestation (∼ 500MtCO 2 /2050) and BECCS (∼ 400MtCO 2 /2050), presenting appealing business prospects for the industry. • CCS can play a vital role in advancing the decarbonization goals of both the sector and the country. Future projections of oil and gas demand suggest that some production will remain necessary. Although attention often focuses on CO 2 emissions from the combustion of their products, oil and gas production is also a relevant global emission source of both CO 2 and CH 4. Hence, understanding the carbon performance of upstream activities in producing nations is vital for distinguishing producers in a climate-pressured global market. This work explores climate strategies for the oil and gas upstream sector, using Brazil as a case study. The sector´s emissions profile is evaluated under distinct national climate scenarios. The analysis employs BLUES, a national Integrated Assessment Model (IAM), to access production volumes, mitigation measures applicable to the sector, and carbon dioxide removal potentials within the country to eventually offset the sector's remaining emissions. Results indicate sustained oil and gas production over the evaluated horizon (2020–2050) without compromising national climate goals, yet the sector's future emissions trajectory does not align with decarbonization targets pursued by more ambitious oil-producing nations and industry players. Despite sectoral mitigation measures indicated by the model, considerable emissions remain until 2050. Conversely, the country offers ample offsetting opportunities with potential synergies for the sector, especially through BECCS. Furthermore, the acceptability of offsets is discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• The maximum pressure-limited global storage achievable after thirty years of continuous injection is 3640 GtCO 2 (121 GtCO 2 yr-1), increasing to 5630 GtCO 2 (70 GtCO 2 yr-1) at the end of the century. • Applying simplified physics models to estimate injectivity limited storage resources and rates allows for a self-consistent estimate of storage resources across the globe, resolved at the scale of geological basins, and including areas where no resource assessments have yet been carried out. • To achieve the global storage injection rates implied by scaleup trajectories included in the IPCC sixth assessment Report, injectivity limitations mean that deployment will have to expand beyond the ten countries with the most active CCS development today. Limiting global warming to a 2 °C rise may require large-scale deployment of carbon capture and storage (CCS). Due to the key role CCS plays in integrated assessment models of climate change mitigation, it is important that fundamental physical constraints are accounted for. We produce a global estimate of CO 2 storage resource that accounts for pressure-limits within basin-scale reservoir systems. We use a dynamic physics model of reservoir pressurisation that is sufficiently simple to be incorporated into energy systems models. Our estimates address regionally inconsistent methodologies and the general lack of consideration for pressure limitations in global storage resource estimates. We estimate a maximum pressure-limited resource base and explore scenarios with different injection patterns, and scenarios where the extent of CCS deployment is limited by the history of regional hydrocarbon exploration and the readiness of countries for deployment. The maximum pressure-limited global storage achievable after thirty years of injection is 3640GtCO 2 (121GtCO 2 yr-1), increasing to 5630GtCO 2 (70 GtCO 2 yr-1) at the end of the century. These represent an update to volumetric-based estimates that suggest in excess of 10,000Gt of storage resource available. When CCS deployment is limited to the top ten countries ranked by the GCCSI Storage Readiness Index, our maximum storage estimate decreases to 780GtCO 2 (26GtCO 2 yr-1) at the mid-century and 1177GtCO 2 (15GtCO 2 yr-1) at the end of the century. These latter results fall within the range of projected deployment by the IPCC and IEA and suggest that reservoir pressurisation will limit CCS deployment if development does not rapidly expand beyond the current implementation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Innovative dual-element recording system used for high-fold 2D seismic profiles. • Survey delineated Havnsø structure, confirming a well-defined four-way closure. • No large-scale faults found in the near surface, ensuring structural integrity for GCS. In Denmark, Geological Carbon Storage (GCS) has been prioritized as an immediate solution for climate action. The Havnsø domal structure has been identified as one of the most promising locations for GCS because its size and properties are believed to be suitable for GCS. However, the preliminary assessments, based mainly on old, sparse, and low-quality seismic data, are uncertain regarding the prospective storage resource and the integrity of the structure. To enable informed decisions and planning of the storage operations and as part of a large-scale acquisition campaign targeting several similar onshore structures throughout Denmark, a seismic data acquisition work was conducted in 2022 in the area. The purpose of the survey was to delineate the structural closure and map possible geologic features, such as faults, that could jeopardize GCS operations. In total, 132 km of high-fold and high-resolution 2D profiles were acquired using an innovative dual-element recording system for both deep and shallow subsurface imaging purposes. The recording comprises two vibrating sources and a combination of nodal recorders spaced at 10 m, and 2-m-spaced microelectromechanical systems (MEMS)-based recorders attached to a moving landstreamer. The seismic data contain information on all horizons of interest for GCS. The structure is estimated as a well-defined four-way closure, where the reservoir is continuous. A thick, mostly uniform sealing rock is interpreted and no large-scale faults are found in the near surface. The results, supported from existing background information, provide crucial information to assist further decisions and actions related to future storage operations in Havnsø. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Temperature is one of the crucial environmental factors affecting the physiology and suitability of fish species for aquaculture, making it vital to predict how the present rate of climate change will impact these species. To assess the heat tolerance of silver pompano Trachinotus blochii , the Critical Thermal Maxima (CT max) and Critical Thermal Minima (CT min) were investigated at six different acclimation temperatures (T acc), ranging from 18 to 36 °C. Generalized Additive Model (GAM) was performed on CT max and CT min and tested for data validation. The results revealed that the CT max and CT min for T. blochii were 41.1 ± 0.0478 °C and 12.0 ± 0.0748 °C, respectively. The Thermal Tolerance Polygon was calculated to be 357.02 oC2 for the specified temperatures. The study revealed that silver pompano acclimated to higher temperatures exhibited greater thermal tolerance. Additionally, it was found that their thermal tolerance could be increased through an acclimation regime, allowing them to adapt better to higher temperatures. The results enlighten the species potential towards securing global food security and sustainable development, as these resilient finfish can be integrated into climate-smart marine aquaculture systems to mitigate the effects of climate change by providing valuable information for future actionable strategies for species diversification. • The study explored silver pompano, T. blochii' s heat tolerance and acclimatization response ratio (ARR). • Thermal tolerance of silver pompano, varies with acclimation temperature, peaking at 36 °C and reaching a minimum at 18 °C. • Thermal polygon for the specified temperature regime of the species computed as 357.02 oC2. • The research identified specific temperature thresholds: CTmax at 41.1 ± 0.0478 °C and CTmin at 12.0 ± 0.0748 °C, delves insights for understanding climate change impact. • Silver pompano found to be a potential resilient marine finfish species for diversified mariculture in climate change scenario. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Assessment of carbon stock (CS) in various land use/land cover (LULC) types is essential for environmental policies focused on reducing CO 2 emissions and mitigating climate change. This study utilized the CA-Markov model to simulate future LULC scenarios and the InVEST model to evaluate CS changes in Pakistan from 2001 to 2030. The study employed two decades of yearly composite land cover data from MODIS, achieving high accuracy with a kappa value of 0.856. The results indicate that an increase of 38.1 × 103 km2 in cultivated land could lead to an increment of 13.5 Tg in Pakistan's total CS. In comparison, an increase in forest area can be the reason for raising above-ground carbon (AGC) by 16.8 Tg. These findings enhance the understanding of long-term LULC and CS changes in Pakistan. The study provides valuable insights for governments to refine land use strategies, adjust carbon emission reduction policies, and design better regulations based on the study's findings. Key recommendations include promoting vertical urban development to preserve carbon sequestration areas, implementing strict agricultural zoning laws, expanding afforestation initiatives like the Billion Tree Tsunami and Green Pakistan, and establishing a national LULC and CS monitoring program. Integrating data from various sources will create a comprehensive database to inform policy decisions and land management practices, contributing to global climate change mitigation efforts. [Display omitted] • First national scale assessment (2000−2020) and forecast (2030) of carbon stock and land use/land cover changes in Pakistan. • Barren lands contain 63% of Pakistan, responsible for 56% of total CS. • An increase of 45% area of forest (LC with a high density of CS) will increase (16.8 Tg) above-ground carbon (AGC) by 2030. • Pakistan's total CS will be increased by 0.5% by 2030. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ecological carbon sinks play a crucial role in global carbon cycling and climate mitigation, making their effective management essential. This study develops a novel risk zoning and multifactor analysis framework for ecological carbon sink management in Yunnan Province, China, a region recognized for its ecological diversity and carbon sequestration potential. Our results reveal that high-priority ecological carbon sink zones, mainly in the southwest and western regions, cover 20% of the total area and contain over 60% of the province's carbon stocks. In contrast, high-risk zones, primarily in urbanized regions, show a reduction in carbon sequestration, with emissions exceeding 25.7 million kg due to urban development and landscape degradation. The analysis delineated five distinct risk zones; urgent intervention zones, risk control zones, priority restoration zones, long-term conservation zones, and integrated management zones. Notably, urgent intervention and priority restoration zones, while representing just 9.6% of the area, are critical for protecting over 40% of the carbon sequestration potential. The comprehensive risk zoning framework, combining principal component and canonical correspondence analysis (PCA-CCA), effectively integrates landscape indicators, socio-economic factors, and natural elements. Our innovative, data-driven approach offers strategic insights into managing carbon sinks while balancing ecological integrity and socioeconomic needs, providing a replicable model for ecosystem management. The framework presented in this paper. [Display omitted] • Created a zoning framework combining carbon sink priorities with landscape risks for precise ecological risk management. • Established a zoning matrix for differentiated strategies to enhance carbon sink conservation and mitigate ecological risks. • Integrated PCA and CCA for assessing ecological carbon sinks, revealing impacts from landscape and socio-economic factors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this paper is to assess carbon dioxide (CO 2) reduction research and strategies, in view of the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals (SDG), and in particular SDG 13 'Climate Action', achievement. According to current understanding, limiting global warming to a determined temperature level requires stabilization of atmospheric greenhouse gases by achieving net-zero emissions. This implies that all residual emissions should be counterbalanced by natural or technical long-term storage sinks. Therefore, CO 2 reduction and storage appear to be essential for curtailing global warming and for the stabilization of global climate, as a precondition for the achievement of SDGs. Catalyst preparation has a high impact on carbon removal technology, especially as far as the most promising methods, such as electrochemical and photochemical reduction, are concerned. Even if the two technologies might preliminarily appear different, the inner mechanisms, that is, electron transfer and surface absorption, are common to both. This study analyses recent literature on CO 2 catalytic reduction through the analysis of network maps created by VOSviewer to spotlight the most promising areas for the sector's improvement. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Coastal wetlands have the capacity to trap and store large amounts of carbon and function as efficient blue carbon sinks—an essential nature-based approach for climate change mitigation. Owing to anthropogenic activities and sea level rise (SLR), coastal wetlands located at the land–sea interface are subject to severe deterioration, transformation, and loss. Assessing coastal wetland vulnerability to SLR serves as the foundation for developing climate change adaptation solutions and is critical for maintaining the stability and sustainability of coastal ecosystems. In this paper, we provide an overview of approaches for assessing coastal wetland vulnerability and find the following: (1) The Rod Surface Elevation Table–Marker Horizon (RSET–MH) method can provide accurate and repeatable measurements of local surface elevation changes; however, contrary to Relative Sea Level Rise (RSLR) recorded by long-term tide gauges, RSETs recording the current surface elevation changes of coastal wetlands provide short-period monitoring with uneven coverage. Hence, RSET monitoring needs to be further extended to obtain long-term broad-coverage data for more accurately assessing coastal wetland vulnerability. (2) Existing vertical accretion models for coastal wetlands account for important feedback mechanisms between SLR and sediment accretion; however, they do not account for the relationship between vertical accretion and climate change, i.e., elevated atmospheric carbon dioxide concentration. This omission may lead to a shift in the SLR threshold for the survival of coastal wetlands. (3) Human activities affect the stability of wetlands, and current studies on coastal wetland vulnerability do not consider the potential impacts of human activities on these areas, resulting in an incomplete assessment of wetland risk. Incorporating the effects of human activities into biophysical models of coastal wetland evolution is a major challenge that must be addressed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To meet urban resilience goals and the needs of growing populations, cities aim to develop multifunctional greenspaces and urban forests. Urban greening is seen to improve the quality of life for residents, contribute significantly to biodiversity conservation and socio-ecological resilience, and meet climate mitigation and adaptation goals. There is also a growing recognition of the importance of involving individuals and communities in the design and planning of greenspace in cities, particularly in the configuration of parks and in identifying the types of vegetation found there. In these contexts, it is increasingly common to engage the public with virtual 3D landscapes, with the ultimate goals of crowdsourcing preferences, knowledge, and patterns of use. There have been few studies to systematically examine how the public interacts with these virtual spaces, and their decision-making needs. Experts have a fluency with a broad range of ecosystem services that flow from urban greenspaces, as well as a familiarity with trees and other landscape elements. This is not the case for the public, who may instead rely on familiar and visually salient landscape attributes. This is in keeping with the concept of constructed preferences, where judgements are formed as they are elicited and are heavily influenced by available information. This study thus compares aided and unaided decision-making by the public in a virtual 3D urban park. Participants were invited to plant trees in park; some participants were provided with a brief description of a key ecosystem function of each tree (along with an illustration of that tree), other participants were only provided the illustration. Three key insights emerge from this research: (i) public tree preferences are sensitive to whether information is provided or withheld, (ii) in the absence of information, easy to evaluate characteristics (i.e., visually salient characteristics) played a large role in tree selection within the virtual urban parks, and (iii) for most participants, and consistent with other studies, aesthetics was the most important attribute guiding tree choice. These insights can support improved public engagement in landscape design and planning, particularly in crowdsourced and virtual settings. • 3D landscape visualizations are an effective tool to identify public tree preferences. • Information about trees' ecosystem services should be included in visualizations. • Without information the public may focus only on visually salient ecosystem services. • With information, a greater variety of ecosystem services is considered in tree choice. • Aesthetics play a large role in tree selections for a virtual urban park setting. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Monitoring CO 2 concentrations in urban areas is crucial for determining the efficacy of climate change mitigation policies. However, highly heterogeneous land use, local geography, and local convection patterns, which vary throughout the urban landscape, complicate this task. To establish continuous monitoring programs, it is important to first determine the heterogeneity of urban landscapes on the ground. To understand the role these factors play in the distribution of CO 2 over an urban area, we conducted a CO 2 measurement campaign over the Metropolitan Area of Barcelona (AMB) over four urban land uses: impervious, green, forest, and agricultural. There is a clear tendency for CO 2 mixing ratios to decrease as the degree of urban vegetation increases, even in the midst of a developed boundary layer. For example, CO 2 concentrations were 429 and 427 ppm at forest and agricultural sites, respectively, while 485 ppm was reported at urban sites. A decrease in atmospheric CO 2 was observed from 458 to 428 ppm in the gradient from urban to suburban areas, in which the biosphere component increased. The biosphere component of the CO 2 signal was significant and was observed in the gradient from urban to suburban areas, which averaged a reduction from 458 to 428 ppm. Our findings show that the large spatial variability in CO 2 concentrations (ranging from 410 to 495 ppm) is best explained by anthropogenic activity. We propose increasing the spatiotemporal resolution of CO 2 monitoring in the AMB to determine these trends more precisely over longer periods of time. • First data showing CO 2 concentration distribution over the Metropolitan Area of Barcelona. • CO 2 concentrations decrease from urban to suburban areas as biosphere increases. • Local mixing ratios of CO 2 strongly linked to temporal changes in air masses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There is increasing recognition in science and policy that the current nature and climate change crises are highly intertwined, and that these need to be jointly addressed. Within the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), the Race to Zero (R2Z) and the Race to Resilience (R2R) campaigns foster climate action by cities, regions, businesses, investors, and civil society organizations for mitigation and adaptation. The campaigns are part of UNFCCC-backed institutional arrangements linking intergovernmental climate governance with actions beyond national commitments to support the implementation of the Paris Agreement, also referred to as the Global Climate Action Agenda (GCAA). Both mobilization campaigns highlight and promote the contribution of nature to climate mitigation, adaptation, and resilience. Yet, the integration of nature in climate ambition is more complex than indicated in the calls to action. We here identify key areas of concern in the alignment of climate and biodiversity goals, discussing the biophysical and socio-ecological considerations relative to (i) practices for enhancing land-based and marine sinks to limit warming; (ii) the unpredictability of biodiversity dynamics under climate change; (iii) the spatial scale at which actions can be implemented; and (iv) the types of metrics that can be used for tracking progress. We provide recommendations for the two mobilization campaigns to integrate in their criteria and metrics frameworks to support effective and equitable actions that deliver for climate, but also for nature and people. We then make a call to action for transdisciplinary knowledge production and dissemination that strengthens science-policy interactions. [Display omitted] • Nature's contribution to climate mitigation and adaptation is increasingly recognized in science and policy. • The integration of nature in climate actions presents risks for climate, biodiversity and people. • Risks encompass bio-physical challenges, social trade offs, and equity concerns. • UN-backed mobilization campaigns can promote alignment goals for climate, nature, and people. • This article makes recommendations to strengthen standards, transparency, and accountability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Biden administration has revitalized the United States' climate agenda. Current research on the U.S. climate mitigation policies has predominantly focused on individual policies and legislative measures, demonstrating a lack of a comprehensive and systematic analysis. To address this gap, this study establishes a systematic analytical framework for US climate mitigation policies, including the "Vertical Policy Hierarchy - Horizontal Policy Path - Policy Instruments" dimensions, drawing upon first-hand policy data to thoroughly assess the U.S. climate mitigation policy system, pathways, instruments, and potential policy outcomes. The study finds that, (i) Concerning the vertical policy hierarchies based on the government's governance structure, the U.S. federal government has been proactive in advancing climate mitigation policies. However, the government faces multiple risks arising from various factors, including elections, public opinion, limited authority, frequent economic and social unrest, and the ever-shifting domestic and international political factors. These vulnerabilities may undermine the effectiveness of policies. The Congress also encounters certain challenges of significant fragmentation and influence from diverse economic and political factors, which poses challenges to the enactment of related environmental legislation. Moreover, the Supreme Court's climate litigation rulings tend to exhibit a conservative and highly politicized nature. (ii) In terms of the horizontal policy path, which is categorized into six major focus areas, the U.S. climate mitigation policies have made positive strides in the general sector, buildings sector, transport sector, and agriculture and forestry sector. However, challenges persist in the energy sector and industry and business sector. (iii) An analysis of 706 policy instruments indicates that Financial/Fiscal Mechanisms and Direct Investment are the primary means of implementing U.S. climate mitigation policies. Since President Biden assumed office, Regulatory Reform has emerged as a significant breakthrough, accompanied by the gradual adoption of Commercialization Mechanisms and Governance Mechanisms. However, Market-based Mechanisms have encountered challenges in their implementation at the federal level. (iv) An analysis of the potential effects of policy instruments indicates that institutional requirements are a primary consideration; policy design emphasizes environmental justice and equity. Many policies demonstrate positive outcomes in terms of environmental effectiveness, economic effectiveness, and innovation. Policies are also beneficial in improving people's livelihoods, reducing inflation, increasing employment, while also exhibiting positive synergies and enhancing competitiveness. Combining these results and issues, this paper also discusses prominent trends in the policy and offers recommendations for climate decision-making in the United States and other countries. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As the importance of non-state mitigation actions in the transition to a low-carbon economy becomes firmly established, a rapidly growing number of companies are setting corporate climate mitigation targets. Shareholders increasingly value these commitments, conveying the impression of good future carbon performance. However, a critical question emerges: why do some companies progress better than others toward their climate mitigation targets? There is currently a lack of empirical literature assessing companies' progress against their mitigation targets. Using a new indicator to evaluate the progress against individual corporate climate mitigation targets in a comparable manner, this study presents an explanatory analysis of 120 determinants applied to 4341 climate mitigation targets (scope 1 and 2 emissions) of 2975 companies reporting to the 2020 CDP questionnaire. The target progress assessment shows that 30% of targets have increased emissions since their base year, 15% have reduced their emissions but not at a sufficient pace, while 55% were on track to achieving or had already achieved their targets. In addition, 18% of targets were already achieved the year the target was set, which may be due to choosing a base year with unusually high emissions. The findings reveal 19 key determinants significantly associated with the progress against corporate targets and highlight future research orientation. Our results indicate better progression by companies having absolute targets with longer timeframes and disclosing additional, as well as remuneration links to climate-related issues. Companies with more ambitious targets progress less than others, except when the ambitious targets are approved by the Science-Based Targets initiative. The latter implies ambitious targets from some firms may only be symbolic, and that investors should consider both target ambition and progress. Clear guidance and regulations should be implemented by policymakers to prevent misleading target information. Future research should address limitations related to reliance on self-reported data and exclusion of scope 3 emissions targets, along with the research directions suggested by the findings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Carbon emissions elimination in the rapid urbanization areas contributes to regional sustainable development and global climate change mitigation. With the target of carbon neutrality, the global top-class Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei Urban Agglomeration which confronts with the dual pressure of excess carbon emissions and shrink ecological space has increased its carbon reduction coordination cooperation, among which energy consumption carbon emission control and natural resource sink maintenance have been recognized as the key strategy. However, the study on carbon balance prediction is lack and the amount of energy consumption carbon emissions in the future can be offset by the ecological carbon sink is still unknown. To estimate the gap to carbon neutrality, this study proposes a framework for carbon offset analysis and prediction which takes various carbon emission scenarios and the potential of natural resource on carbon reduction into consideration. After the framework conduction in the agglomeration, it is revealed that the regional least carbon emissions of 29.51 Mt mainly derive from the population and economic growth brought by urbanization process, while the carbon sink predicted to be 2552.31 Kt is still far to cover the emissions. With the regional carbon offset rate decline from 0.68% to 0.63%, the ecological carbon sink in Beijing will offset 1.21% of its carbon emission, while the least ecological space keep city Tianjin is predicted to suffer the lowest offset rate of 0.09%. The research results contribute to recognize the key factors on carbon emission control and key areas for carbon maintenance in following years, as well as narrowing the gap to neutrality with both consideration of carbon emission reduction and sink maintenance. [Display omitted] • Framework on energy consumption carbon offset analysis was established. • Regional carbon emissions, sinks and offset rate were predicted. • Drop from 0.68% in 2020 to 0.63% in 2030, the declining offset rate indicates the gap to neutrality is still large. • Implications for each area's carbon emission offset rate improvement were discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study addresses the imperative transition towards renewable energy for the powering of desalination technologies, focusing particularly on island contexts. The Canary Archipelago serves as a unique wind energy-desalination laboratory, with numerous experimental projects conducted since the late 1980s. The lessons learnt that are identified in this paper highlight the critical factors influencing project success or failure, including the modernization of desalination plants, the optimal selection of wind farm sites and turbine technology, adequate resources for operating and maintenance tasks, and optimal battery sizing to minimize system shutdowns. In this context, reverse osmosis emerges as the most advantageous technology for variable operating conditions. System interfaces between wind turbines and desalination units are also discussed and it is identified that further research is needed for mechanical or hydrostatic interface systems, while electrical interface systems suit low-medium water demand areas. Recommendations are given for system design and maintenance with the aim of providing valuable information for other island communities grappling with the water-energy nexus and climate change mitigation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cities face twin challenges of changing climate and urban heat island (UHI) effect, with the environmental implications of urbanization still unclear. This study employs the Weather Research and Forecasting (WRF) model to examine the impacts of urbanization in the Greater Bay Area (GBA) during warm and cold seasons in past (2000) and near-future (2030) scenarios [i.e., under shared socioeconomic pathways (SSP): SSP1-26, SSP2-45, and SSP5-85]. Datasets from the World Urban Database and Access Portal Tools (WUDAPT) were incorporated into the WRF model to improve the representation of urbanization effects on weather patterns. Our findings indicate that urban expansion significantly increases urban temperatures and decreases wind speed across selected climate change scenarios. The spatially averaged urban temperatures in the fine resolution domain for 2030 could rise by 0.9 °C (warm season) and 2.4 °C (cold season), respectively, and urban wind speed decreases by ∼ 3 m/s under the SSP5-85 scenario. In cold season, the UHI effect could last over 20 h, while urban area may experience cooler nighttime temperatures than rural areas in warm season. Moreover, the future scenario predicts higher daytime O 3 levels due to the warming effects of climate change and urbanization, but lower nighttime levels in warm season, attributed to intensified south-easterly sea breeze and background winds, when compared to the past scenario. This study highlights the importance of incorporating urbanization and climate change in future urban atmospheric environment studies, and underscores that urban climate change adaptation and mitigation should consider extra impacts on built-environment caused by urbanization. • Climate change and urbanization impacts on meteorological and O 3 fields were explored in GBA. • Urbanization and climate change are expected to raised temperatures by 0.9 °C in warm season over the study area. • Urbanization and climate change are expected to raised temperatures by 2.4 °C in cold season over the study area. • Urbanization is expected to reduce wind speed by 3 m/s and intensify sea breeze penetration over the study area. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The European Union (EU) has consistently held a prominent global position in climate governance. This paper compiles 152 climate neutrality policies issued by the European Commission (EU Commission) and employs a systematic analytical framework including "Vertical Policy Hierarchy - Horizontal Policy Path – Systematic Policy instruments" to conduct an in-depth analysis of the EU's climate neutrality policy system. This study produces several findings as follows: First, the EU's climate neutrality policy hierarchy is characterized by a structure comprising "Long-Term Planning – Specific Measures - Financial Support". Second, the EU's policy formulation process for climate neutrality emphasizes the integration of a multi-party engagement mechanism involving "Nongovernmental Level - Regional Level - National Level - Transnational Level - Supranational Level", while extensively employing a "framework-content" policy-making methodology. Third, the EU's climate neutrality governance is guided by the dual objectives of achieving a "Cleaner Energy Structure" and "Recover Ecological Environment" pursuing a broad-ranging and multi-tiered policy pathway towards climate neutrality. Fourth, the EU leverages a combined approach of mandatory measures and guiding policies to propel the climate neutrality governance process, aspiring to achieve breakthroughs in new energy technology innovation through climate neutrality governance, thereby solidifying its international standing. Moreover, this study provides an outlook on the future of the EU's climate neutrality policy governance, positing that the EU's emphasis on climate neutrality governance will remain undiminished, with a heightened focus on guiding policies and an emphasis on the roles of enterprises and the public in advancing the realization of climate neutrality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Electricity demand is a crucial factor in energy system planning. Understanding future electricity demand is vital for developing effective energy and climate policies, as well as establishing a resilient and sustainable energy system. In light of these considerations, the escalating challenges posed by climate change are anticipated to have a substantial impact on electricity demand. This study, therefore, provides a comprehensive analysis delving into the dynamic nature of Temperature Response Functions (TRFs) of electricity demand across Europe. By examining various factors influencing electricity demand in residential buildings, such as thermal insulation, heating electrification, space cooling, and passive cooling, we aim to understand their collective impact on shaping future Temperature Response Functions. To project electricity demand, our study incorporates these factors into our scenario assumptions. Through a comprehensive investigation of these scenarios, our findings reveal distinctive regional influences of these factors. In regions where heating demand prevails, an initial increase in electricity demand is anticipated due to increased electrification rates. However, improved building thermal insulation is expected to substantially reduce winter electricity demand in the long run. Conversely, in regions with pronounced cooling demand, a notable escalation in electricity demand is foreseen due to increased space cooling penetration rate. Nevertheless, the application of effective passive cooling measurements is expected to mitigate and markedly diminish this increase. By highlighting the differential influences of these factors on electricity demand across Europe, our findings can offer valuable insights and guidelines first for energy system modelers for considering the change in Temperature Response Functions and second for policymakers to develop effective climate change adaptation and mitigation strategies. • Examination of the dynamic characteristics of Temperature Response Functions (TRFs). • Space and passive cooling, electric heating, insulation effects on electricity demand. • Projection of TRFs and electricity demand for 36 European countries until 2100. • Thermal insulation and passive cooling are essential for reducing electricity demand. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Policy and market incentives are rapidly expanding to promote soil organic carbon (SOC) sequestration in global croplands. Evidence suggests that long-term increases in SOC can influence both crop yield and nitrogen (N) fertilizer requirements, with the potential to help address two important sustainability challenges. However, increases in SOC may also trigger higher soil nitrous oxide (N 2 O) emissions, which would represent an important tradeoff for climate change mitigation. We tested the hypothesis that long-term increases in SOC are associated with higher crop yields and fertilizer N use efficiency (NUE), but at the cost of higher N 2 O emissions. Wheat was grown in two soils (SOC low and SOC high) under three N fertilizer rates (0, 100, and 200 kg N ha−1) in a mesocosm experiment. Soils were obtained (0–25 cm) from a 22-yr field experiment on no-till and cover cropping in California. Results indicate that total biomass and grain yield were higher for SOC low than SOC high at 100 kg N ha−1 but not the other N levels. Crop N uptake was also 28% greater for SOC low at 200 kg N ha−1, resulting in higher overall NUE. Soil N 2 O emissions increased for SOC high by 25–112% compared to SOC low , likely due to long-term changes in labile C and N pools, microbial activity, and soil structure influencing porosity and gas diffusion. While there are well-documented crop and environmental benefits from enhancing SOC in agricultural soils, results from this study suggest that changes in soil N 2 O emissions should be considered to accurately determine net GHG emission reductions. • Soil N 2 O emissions increased 25–112% with long-term soil carbon sequestration • Crop yields were not higher with increased SOC • Crop nitrogen uptake and nitrogen use efficiency decreased with increased SOC • Elevated N 2 O emissions presented a tradeoff for net GHG emission reductions [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Localized socioeconomic and natural narratives are applied on the regional scale. • Propose ecological zoning management in mountainous agglomerations. • POP, GDP, DEM, and Slope have an inverted U-shaped relationship with carbon storage. • Urbanization expands into the western mountainous under the localized SSP5–8.5 narrative. Ecological carbon storage is critical to climate change mitigation by absorbing CO 2 from the atmosphere. Mountainous ecosystems, crucial carbon reservoirs, are experiencing persistent carbon storage declines, yet management mechanisms targeting such complex terrains remain challenging. Focusing on the Sichuan-Chongqing urban agglomeration, interwoven as mountains and basins, we employed the MPI-coupled (Improved Markov-PLUS-InVEST) model and localized "socio-economic-climatic" narratives to simulate the dynamic evolution of carbon storage over extended periods. Diverse impacts and gradient effects of social, economic, and natural (incl. terrain, climate) drivers on carbon storage are further examined. The findings revealed that: (1) The most carbon storage growth projected from 2030 to 2060 reaches 1.53 %, but of which localized SSP5–8.5 narrative the urbanization encroached upon the undeveloped mountainous, severely impairing carbon sequestration by 81.5Tg. (2) In addition to landscape types, carbon storage exhibits complex spatial responses to economic development, population size, and terrain with an inverted U-shaped relationship. The proposed methodology offers more accurate carbon storage estimates and assists policy-makers in similar terrains to effectively manage the spatial heterogeneity of carbon storage. This study facilitates the implementation of tailored ecological conservation through urban zoning, thus contributing to enhanced subregional climate change mitigation efforts globally. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Carbon tax is a policy instrument that facilitate the phase-out of coal as a chemical feedstock and help China achieve an early carbon peak. However, the policy design is challenged by the complex dynamics of global warming potentials (GWP) from upstream methane emissions, which have a short atmospheric lifetime but a high climate impact. In this study, we compared the life-cycle GWP of two propylene production routes in China: Coal-to-Olefin (CTO) and Propane Dehydrogenation (PDH). We also conducted a cost-profit analysis that incorporates the carbon tax, considering uncertainties in the dynamic radiative forcing of methane. We derived a range of optimal carbon tax rates that can enhance the economic competitiveness of low-carbon propylene routes PDH and discourage the expansion of coal-fed CTO propylene routes. Results show that, for the propylene sector in China, the carbon tax rate should be between 86 and 600 Chinese Yuan (CNY) or 12–84 US dollars (USD) per ton of carbon dioxide equivalent (CO2e), which corresponds to 1–10% of the typical propylene price in the Chinese market. Our study provides spatiotemporal insights into the carbon tax for China's propylene sector to decarbonize and control upstream methane emissions. Since propylene is one of the key raw materials for chemical (e.g., plastic) productions, our analysis contributes to the climate benefits of global chemical trade. • Carbon tax contributes to controlling upstream methane emissions from coal-based chemical production. • Time-horizon is crucial for taxing carbon, especially as short-lived greenhouse gas emissions affect propylene producers' profits. • Carbon tax is necessary at provincial scale since the intensity of methane emissions from coal and propane feedstock supply chains vary regionally. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aims to evaluate and compare two integrated processes (Plant A and B) for hydrocarbon production from CO 2. They involve proton exchange membrane water electrolysis for H 2 production, reverse water-gas shift reaction for syngas production, pressure swing adsorption for syngas purification, Fischer-Tropsch synthesis for diesel-range hydrocarbons from CO 2 , and atmospheric distillation for product separation. Plant B additionally integrates a hydrocracking-based upgrading section. The simulations were performed using Aspen Plus® v10, Aspen Adsorption® v10, and Aspen Custom Modeler® v10. The evaluation covers technical, economic, environmental, and multi-criteria assessment (GREENSCOPE). The proposed processes demonstrate the potential to convert CO 2 to hydrocarbons, with carbon conversion rates of 75% and 71% for Plants A and B, respectively. Process energy intensity is 155 and 170 MJ/kg LP for Plants A and B, respectively. Environmental assessment reveals CO 2 reduction, resulting in negative global warming potentials of −2.20 and −0.84 kgCO 2-eq /kg LP for Plants A and B, respectively. The sustainability degree indices for Plants A and B are 1.00 and 0.06, respectively, indicating Plant A as the more sustainable process alternative based on both quantitative and qualitative metrics. Economic analysis shows project unviability in the Brazilian context due to reliance on H 2 production and prevailing pricing conditions. Economic viability requires a price increase of liquid products by 266% and 302% or CO 2-eq abatement costs ranging from 2.05 to 3.43 US$/kgCO 2-eq for Plants A and B, respectively. GREENSCOPE methodology indicates better performance for Plant A across all scores, highlighting a clear connection between the hydrocracking unit and performance indicators. The findings show that these processes align with sustainable development goals (SDGs) targets for climate action (SDG 13), clean energy (SDG 7), industry, innovation, and infrastructure (SDG 9), decent work and economic growth (SDG 8), and responsible consumption and production (SDG 12). Overall, the research moves forward SDGs by offering solutions to cut carbon emissions and promote sustainable industrial practices. [Display omitted] • The overall carbon conversion achieved 71–75%. • The global warming potential is about −2.20 to −0.84 kg CO2-eq /kg LP. • The net present value is about −1066 to −1147 MMUS$. • An increase of 266–302% in liquid product prices is required for economic viability. • A CO 2-eq abatement cost of 2.05–3.43 US$/kg is required for economic viability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Cerrado (Savanna biome) showed higher SOC in croplands compared to native vegetation. • Up to 38% of 1 m depth SOC stocks in the Cerrado biome are in shallow layers. • Random Forest predicted ≈65% of SOC variation for croplands and ≈56% for native vegetation. • Clay, precipitation, NPP and temperature are key predictors for SOC stocks. • The models predicted SOC variation better in deeper layers in native vegetation. Soils are the third largest carbon pool on Earth and play a crucial role in mitigating climate change. Therefore, understanding and predicting soil carbon sequestration is of major interest to mitigate climate change globally, especially in countries with strong agricultural backgrounds. In this study, we used a new database composed of 5029 samples collected up to 1-meter depth in three biomes that are most representative of agriculture, Pampas (Prairie), Cerrados (Savanna), and Atlantic Forest (Forest), to explore soil organic carbon (SOC) stocks and its environmental drivers. The Cerrado (Savanna) biome was the only one where croplands presented higher SOC stocks than native vegetation (Native vegetation 121.23 Mg/ha and croplands 127.85 Mg/ha or 5 % higher). From the tested models, the Random Forest outperformed the others, achieving an R2 of 0.64 for croplands and 0.56 for native vegetation. The accuracy of the models varied with soil depth, showing better predictions in shallow layers for croplands and deeper layers for native vegetation. Our results highlight the importance of clay content, precipitation, net primary production (NPP), and temperature as key predictors for soil carbon stocks in the studied biomes. The findings emphasize the importance of protecting the surface layers, especially in the Cerrado biome, to enhance SOC stocks and promote sustainable land management practices. Moreover, the results provide valuable insights for the development of nature-based carbon markets and suggest potential strategies for climate change mitigation. Enhancing our understanding of SOC dynamics and adopting precise environmental predictors will contribute to the formulation of targeted soil management strategies and accelerate progress toward achieving climate goals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Insights from transportation research used to improve comprehensive ESOM. • Capturing underlying heterogeneities by increasing contextual model resolution. • The setup underpins importance of tailoring climate strategies to specific settings. • Behavioural shifts have different implications depending on the contextual setting. • Failing to address key cost barriers delays car fleet electrification by five years. Meeting ambitious climate targets requires deep cuts in emissions from passenger transportation. Many studies point to electrification and behavioural shifts as key measures. Spatial, demographic, economic, and transport-sector-related factors shape the opportunities and preferences for change, thus setting the direction and pace of the transition. These factors typically differ between urban, suburban and low-population-density settings, a fact that is generally overlooked in comprehensive energy system optimisation models (ESOM). This study introduces a novel contextual representation of passenger transportation within a national ESOM (TIMES-Sweden). When testing the new approach, different cost barriers to electrification are found across various settings, signalling a need for different policy responses. Further, opportunities for – and impact from – shifts in travel behaviours vary significantly across settings. These results highlight the need for climate change mitigation strategies in passenger transportation which are better tailored to specific contexts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Climate change triggers shrub encroachment into alpine grasslands and snowbeds. • Back from the future aims restore the encroached vegetation through shrub removal. • A multicriteria research protocol is proposed to assess the experiment feasibility. • The data obtained assessed the full comparability of control and manipulation zones. • The protocol allows assess the experiment feasibility and its long-term monitoring. Climate change triggers changes of vegetation floristic composition, physiognomy and even the onset of new successional pathways, requiring adequate, robust and replicable methodological approaches to properly track these changes. In tundra ecosystems woody plants are encroaching into grasslands and snowbeds, inducing their gradual regression. "Back from the Future" is a pilot project performing selective shrub removal from grasslands and snowbeds in the Italian Central Alps to contrast climate-driven shrub encroachment and promote the recovery and active conservation of vegetation communities. Here we propose a multi-criteria research protocol providing a quantitative tool for: a) the set-up of the manipulation experiment; b) the assessment of the full comparability of manipulation and control areas; c) the long-term monitoring of the efficiency of the manipulation experiment. The experiment was carried out in three study sites (Braulio, Cedec, Sforzellina) across an elevation gradient from the subalpine to the nival belts in the Italian Central Alps. At each study site we identified a control and a manipulation zone to assess the efficiency of the manipulation experiment compared to the natural ecosystem dynamics. The multi-criteria research protocol integrates different sampling approaches: mapping and morphological characterization of trees and shrubs; phytosociological survey of permanent plots; grid-point intercept survey of permanent plots; line-intercept survey along transects; allometric shrub measurements along transects. Our data show that this protocol is applicable to different vegetation types, across different elevation belts, and is suitable to match different targets and/or bioindicators of change. Indeed, the limitations of each selected method when individually applied can be overcome by their combination. Our data demonstrate the full comparability of the control and manipulation zone at each of the three study sites in terms of species richness, floristic composition, species coverage, shrub characteristics and volume. Our results supported the feasibility of this protocol as tool for the set-up of the experiment, to assess the full comparability of control and manipulation zones, and perform a detailed monitoring of the effects and the feasibility of the restoration action and the success and efficiency of this pilot project. The protocol elaborated in the frame of this pilot project could be exported beyond the local context and applied to similar mountain regions, especially in the European Alps, for the planning, set up and monitoring of good land management practices aiming to climate change mitigation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Alpine study sites with a long close-to-nature forestry (CNF) history were studied. • Alternative climate change and CNF management scenarios were simulated. • CNF performs well in ensuring multiple forest ecosystem services and biodiversity. • Climate change requires adaptation of CNF by fostering climate-adapted tree species. • High multifunctionality, including biodiversity, needs diversified management. Close-to-nature forestry (CNF) has a long tradition in European Alpine forest management, playing a crucial role in ensuring the continuous provision of biodiversity and forest ecosystem services, including protection against natural hazards. However, climate change is causing huge uncertainties about the future applicability of CNF in the Alpine region. The question arises as to whether current CNF practices are still suitable for adapting forests to climate change impacts while also meeting the increasing societal demands regarding Alpine forests, including their potential contribution to climate change mitigation. To answer this question, we simulated forest development using the ForClim forest model at two Alpine study sites, together representing a large biogeographic gradient from high-elevation inner Alpine forests (Switzerland) to lower-elevation south-eastern Alpine forests (Slovenia). The simulations considered three climate scenarios (historical climate, SSP2-4.5 and SSP5-8.5) and six alternative management strategies, including both current CNF management practices and climate-adapted versions. Using an indicator based multi-criteria decision analysis framework, we assessed the joint impacts of climate and management on biodiversity and key ecosystem services of the investigated regions, including carbon sequestration (CS) inside and outside the forest ecosystem boundary. The joint effects of climate change and CNF varied, both among and within the study sites along the biogeographical gradient. While CS was more resistant to climate change under current CNF at the south-eastern Alpine site, it was more sensitive at the inner Alpine site, where CS potentials decreased at lower elevations. This adverse effect could be partly mitigated by fostering the use of climate-adapted tree species. However, current CNF and adaptations of it did not meet multiple management objectives equally well: while protection from gravitation hazards and timber production also benefited from this silvicultural practice, biodiversity benefited from CNF variants with low-intensity or no management. In conclusion, CNF has a high potential to continue fulfilling its crucial role in European Alpine forests. A differentiated approach will be needed in the future, however, to identify forest stands where adaptive measures are required, especially at sites particularly vulnerable to climate change. In combination with less intensively managed or unmanaged areas, CNF provides a management portfolio that will help European Alpine forests to meet the demands of future society. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Integrated multi-objective optimization with wood price uncertainty. • Identified trade-offs and synergies, considering wood price uncertainty. • Optimal management allocations shift with spatial and harvest size constraints. • Spatial restrictions and wood price uncertainty impact NPV and carbon sequestration. • Results inform strategic decisions in forest management. Forest ecosystems deliver multiple services crucial for human wellbeing and welfare, with complex relationships among forest ecosystem services (FESs). Implementing sustainable forest management (SFM) policy requires insights into trade-offs, conflicts and synergies among key FESs, necessitating decision-support tools for multiple objectives. However, uncertainty in key parameters adds complexity. We formulated a tri-objective optimization problem concentrating on three vital ecosystem services in Nordic boreal forests: timber supply, climate change mitigation, and biodiversity conservation. Furthermore, future timber price uncertainty was integrated into the optimization model. Utilizing the TreeSim individual-tree growth and yield simulator, we simulated forest growth and yields, carbon stocks, and biodiversity values. Pareto-optimal solutions were found for four distinct management strategies using the epsilon-constrain method to solve the optimization problem. These management strategies differed in spatial restrictions on harvest location and timing, including considerations like harvest adjacency, green-up and maximum harvest opening area (MOA). The analysis revealed trade-offs among all three objectives, with variations influenced by management intensity. Furthermore, within the Pareto solutions for each strategy, a compromise solution was identified based on the knee-point method. The study demonstrated nuanced impacts of green-up constraints related to harvest practices, showing minor effects on harvesting, carbon sequestration, and biodiversity conservation when MOA was restricted to 35 hectares or less. However, more substantial impacts were observed with a MOA limited to 60 hectares or in a strategy without spatial restrictions. Our results underscore the importance of considering multiple objectives in forest management and policy under uncertain wood prices, preventing undesired effects from a singular or deterministic approach. This work provides insights into trade-offs and synergies, contributing to strategic planning and policy design. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• DAC donors use significantly different criteria to determine eligibility for, versus the amount of, climate finance allocated. • The same criteria which determine eligibility for access, tend to limit the amount of climate finance allocated by DAC donors. • Different types of donors utilize significantly different criteria to determine the amount of adaptation and mitigation finance allocated. • SIDS need dedicated loss and damage funds because long-term adaptation funds are often diverted to immediate post-disaster recovery. • Low-income SIDS with weak capacities are typically ineligible for climate finance, excluded by complex processes, or receive meagre allocations. Empirical studies of the determinants of access to climate finance have coalesced around a broad set of independent variables, including recipient need, merit and adaptive capacity, and donor interest. This paper provides comprehensive and nuanced insights into the allocation of the varied sources of climate finance by providing answers to the following questions: (i) Do the eligibility criteria used by donors to determine which countries receive climate finance differ from the criteria used to determine the amount of finance allocated? (ii) Do the eligibility criteria and determinants of amounts allocated for mitigation aid differ from those for adaptation aid? (iii) Do different kinds of donors determine eligibility for financing and amount of finance allocated in different ways? (iv) Do SIDS receive more (or less) climate finance than is justified by their relative vulnerability and adaptive capacity? The results provide a better understanding of the challenges faced by SIDS in accessing climate financing, highlight an underemphasized bifurcation within this group of countries, and underscore the need for further exploration of suitable types of support and modalities of delivery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the pursuit of sustainable development, accurate renewable energy demand forecasting holds great significance for climate change mitigation and promoting sustainability. However, renewable energy forecasting has been consistently challenged by seasonality and nonlinearity. Identifying the periodic and nonlinear characteristics concealed within renewable energy sources accurately is still an unexplored problem. Consequently, an innovative nonlinear discrete seasonal grey model is proposed for renewable energy forecasting, which incorporates seasonal dummy variables and a power exponent term for handling the seasonality and nonlinear patterns in time series. Furthermore, an intelligent algorithm matching framework is proposed to augment the flexibility of the newly developed model. For practical purposes, the new methodology is contrasted against a range of benchmarks encompassing statistical, machine-learning, and traditional grey models in forecasting the quarterly total renewable energy consumption in the United States. The proposed model exhibits over 27% improvement rates over its counterparts, achieving the most superior predictive accuracies of 1.45%, 39.27, and 0.79 in MAPEP , RMSEP , and MASEP metrics, respectively. Furthermore, the probability density and sample size analyses are conducted to validate the robustness of the new model, confirming its adaptability and stability towards algorithm randomness and historical information volume. Consequently, the novel model is employed to forecast the short-to-long-terms renewable energy consumption in the U.S., showcasing an upward trend and seasonal fluctuations of the consumption for the forthcoming 24 quarters from 2023Q4 to 2029Q3. These insights can offer valuable implications to the stakeholders such as energy suppliers, utility managers, and policy advocates, highlighting actionable strategies for optimizing renewable energy consumption forecasting and aiding sustainable development initiatives. • An innovative nonlinear discrete seasonal grey model is proposed for renewable energy forecasting. • The optimum algorithm matching the novel model is determined from five alternatives. • The Monte Carlo Simulation and parameter sensitivity analysis advance the robustness. • PSO with the optimal parameter group has been selected for searching coefficients. • The new model possesses higher accuracy and robustness than various competitors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We perform an ex-ante life cycle assessment, integrating cradle-to-gate greenhouse gas emissions into an off-grid energy system model. By applying a multi-objective optimization, minimizing both costs and carbon dioxide equivalent (CO 2 e) emissions, we find the Pareto boundary between these two goals. As a case study, we chose the power supply to an astronomical observatory in Chile, using mostly solar power and energy storage in batteries and hydrogen. We compare the ex-ante study to a prior ex-post life cycle assessment, and furthermore dive into sensitivities of our model regarding component lifetimes and costs. We find (i) low-hanging fruit in lowering emissions with small cost increases, (ii) ex-ante life cycle assessments' possibility to find less CO 2 e intensive power systems compared to ex-post conducted studies, (iii) a pronounced sensitivity of the optimization model on assumed lifetimes of energy storage components. This study shows the importance of including life cycle CO 2 e emissions into the optimization objective of energy system models. This method uncovers the environmental and economic trade-offs associated with high shares of renewable energies in off-grid energy systems. • We integrate life cycle assessment (LCA) into an off-grid energy system optimization. • The applied case study powers a remote astronomical telescope in Chile. • A multi-objective optimization finds Pareto curves at varying costs and lifetimes. • Low-hanging fruit shows low additional system costs to reduce CO 2 e impacts. • In contrast, a separate LCA did not find such trade-offs in costs and CO 2 e emissions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Energy transitions in Indigenous, Northern and remote communities in Canada promise benefits that go beyond reliable, clean and affordable energy services. The Federal and Provincial governments have committed funding to get remote communities off diesel, acknowledging energy transitions' global and local benefits. Besides climate change mitigation, other benefits, including job creation, income generation, community ownership and local economic growth, are fundamental components of the value proposition of renewable energy projects. However, despite the promises, little evidence of the impacts of renewable energy on communities' local conditions exists. This article looks at the relationship between renewable energy projects and community well-being in Canada. We construct a panel of Indigenous communities and well-being levels using Census data and information about renewable energy projects for the period 1981–2016. The findings suggest that renewable energy is associated with higher levels of well-being. Concretely, having access to renewable energy increases overall well-being by 1 to 5 points on the 0–100 well-being scale, depending on the component of the well-being index considered in the analysis. • Renewable energy and community wellbeing is an essential relationship for successful energy transitions. • The size of the renewable energy projects is strongly associated with higher community wellbeing. • Communities that hold majority ownership of renewable energy projects exhibit higher wellbeing levels. • Solar and wind energy projects are associated with higher wellbeing levels, whereas hydropower is associated with lower ones. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Virtual water trade (VWT) is the trade of water 'embodied' in a product. This paper explores the extent to which bilateral tariffs, World Trade Organization (WTO), and Regional Trade Agreements (RTA) reshape the trade of water across nations and alleviate water scarcity issues. To achieve this goal, we built a panel database on blue (irrigation water) and green (rainwater) VWT among paired trading countries from 1998 to 2002. Using a standard gravity model, we study how the bilateral tariff and WTO/ RTA affect the intensity of blue and green VWT. The results indicate that, on average, a 1% tariff reduction increases the green virtual water trade by 0.219%. In most waterstressed countries, a 1% reduction in tariffs increased blue VWT by 0.416% and green VWT by 0.424%. By crops, we find that tariffs had a negative effect on VWT for the less water-intensive crops, but a positive effect or no effect on the more water-intensive crops. We further find in the most water-stressed countries, RTA facilitated VWT. As a climate mitigation strategy, water-scarce countries can increase VWT, thus reducing the production of water-intensive crops, by lowering tariff rates independently or through trade agreements. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Effective municipal solid waste (MSW) management is a crucial component for sustainable cities, as inefficient waste disposal contributes to the release of about a billion tons of CO 2 -eq in greenhouse gases (GHG) annually. With escalating global waste generation, there is an untapped opportunity to integrate carbon dioxide removal (CDR) technologies into existing MSW management processes. This review explores current research on utilizing MSW for CDR, emphasizing its potential for both energy generation and carbon sequestration. The investigation covers three waste management practices: landfilling, waste-to-energy (WtE), and biochar production, revealing two paths for carbon sequestration. First, MSW serves as a feedstock in bioenergy with carbon capture and storage (BECCS), acting as a carbon-neutral resource that avoids fossil fuel and energy crop use, reducing GHG emissions and generating value through energy production. Second, direct storage of organic MSW and its derivatives, like biochar, in various carbon sinks allows for extended sequestration, offering a comprehensive approach to address the challenges of waste management and climate change mitigation. Moreover, this review advocates for an extended exploration into several subjects including in-depth analysis of waste, research on MSW-derived biochar recalcitrance across different carbon sinks, and understanding the symbiotic connections with GHG-emitting sectors like agriculture and energy. Finally, this review emphasizes the necessity of conducting life-cycle assessment studies to fully discern the benefits and assess the impacts of any future endeavors exploring the role of MSW in carbon sequestration. [Display omitted] • Municipal solid waste (MSW) is an untapped resource for carbon dioxide removal. • Three strategies to utilize MSW for CO 2 removal include landfilling, waste-to-energy, and biochar production. • Carbon sequestration is achieved through MSW-burial and energy recovery with CCS. • Auditing carbon emissions and LCA are necessary to illuminate the impacts of MSW. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

While cities have been widely considered to be key sites of ambitious and transformative climate action, it is time to question whether they have adequate tools and mandates to reach their goals in time. In this paper we provide a comprehensive assessment of planned measures in major cities, assessing the distribution of persuasive (soft) versus direct regulatory (hard) and material measures using an urban systems perspective. Examining 1079 climate measures of 19 cities in the global C40 network we find that the majority of measures can be considered as soft measures , focused on raising awareness, incentivising businesses, engaging citizens, and developing new plans. Our cases suggest that cities in the Global South are more focused on hard and material measures and less prone to voluntarism than cities in the Global North. Generally, showing that strategies for sustainability transformations in cities are heavily reliant on voluntarism and persuasion, the article expresses concern for the ability of cities to meet its ambitious targets. The research literature on urban climate governance should expand from its current focus on collaborative, network-based and experimental governance, to reconsider the roles of regulation and control in meeting climate targets. • Provides a comprehensive assessment of planned climate measures in 19 major cities • Analyses 1079 climate measures and categorises into soft, hard and material modes • We find that the majority of measures (more than half) can be considered as soft. • We critically discuss the viability of ambitious climate targets. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]