The influence of urban spatial structure on building carbon emissions at the neighborhood scale considering spatial effect

Abstract

This study investigates the impact of urban spatial structures on carbon emissions from buildings in Seoul, based on data from 2020. By employing spatial econometric models, the study identifies key urban characteristic factors influencing energy consumption and following carbon emissions. We focus on key aspects of urban spatial structure, spatial compactness, connectivity, and land use mix to examine their effects on energy usage and emissions. The findings highlight a complex relationship between urban density and emissions. High-density areas may increase or decrease emissions depending on human activity, building use, and transportation infrastructure. Additionally, the connectivity and accessibility provided by efficient urban transport networks are crucial for mitigating carbon emissions, but their effectiveness is significantly enhanced when integrated with land use planning. The findings suggest that while high-density and mixed land use can increase energy consumption due to increased activities, improving urban connectivity can help mitigate emissions. It should aim to balance density and connectivity for sustainable urban development, ultimately contributing to effective carbon reduction strategies and urban sustainability.