Activation of NATURE-based solutions for a JUST low carbon transition
Although cities are major energy consumers and significantly contribute
to greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, their high density of socio-economic
activity and built environment design creates opportunities for promoting
climate protection. As recently recognized by the European Green Deal, European
cities can be exemplars in leading the way towards a low-carbon society, while
simultaneously addressing several other challenges arising from urbanisation
and structural socio-economic changes. Cities represent a complex setting where
climate impacts are not distributed evenly. Low income households are more
highly exposed to environmental stressors, while environmental amenities are
increasingly exclusive to high-income households. Debates on these inequities
have gained further traction linked to the recent spread of SARS-CoV-2. The
overall objective of JUSTNature is the activation of nature-based solutions
(NbS) by ensuring a just transition to low-carbon cities, based on the
principle of the right to ecological space. Beyond climate mitigation, this
includes the right to clean air and indoor/outdoor thermal comfort for human
health and well-being, as well as thriving biodiversity and ecosystems.
JUSTNature will contribute to this vision of shaping low-carbon cities by
developing a set of typical Low carbon | High air quality NbS interventions in
seven European cities. RWI will evaluate these interventions through
econometric modelling that draws on georeferenced data sources such as
satellite imagery and air quality readings.
Publications
Project start:
01. September 2021
Project end:
30. June 2025
Project management:
Prof. Colin Vance Ph.D.
Project staff:
Dr. Nicole Wägner
Project partners:
Accademia Europea di Bolzano,
Technische Universität München,
Polytechneio Kritis,
Universita ta Malta,
Abud Mernokiroda KFT,
E2ARC Architecture & Research for Cities,
Prospex Institute,
IES R&D,
Inlecom Innovation Astiki Mi Kerdospkopiki Etaireia,
Crowdhelix Ltd.,
Observa Natura BV,
Stichting Isocarp Institute Center of Urban Excellence,
Kydon Dimotiki A.E.,
Landeshauptstadt München,
Stad Leuven,
Comune di Merano,
Comune di Bolzano,
Gzira Local Council,
Szombathely Megyei Jogú Város Önkormányzata
Funding:
European Commission, Horizon 2020