Towards Carbon-Neutral Neighborhoods: A Case Study in València, Spain

Instituto de Ingeniería Energética, Universitat Politècnica de València, Camino de Vera, s/n, 46022 València, Spain.

^* Corresponding author: carmonmo@iie.upv.es

Abstract

The climate crisis, driven by human activities like fossil fuel use, deforestation, and industrial emissions, demands urgent action. Nations are adopting renewable energy, advancing technologies like electric vehicles and carbon capture, and implementing reforestation, conservation, and sustainable agriculture policies. This work shows the results of applying a methodology for estimating and analyzing direct and indirect emissions of Scopes 1 and 2 within the Benicalap neighborhood in València and proposes mitigation measures to reduce these emissions, creating a Positive Energy District. Benicalap was identified as one of the most promising areas for a carbon-neutral district due to its high Greenhouse Gas (GHG) emissions. The measures that have been chosen include electrifying the transport sector, adopting induction stoves, installing photovoltaic systems on rooftops, converting public lighting entirely to LED and retrofitting older buildings. These measures will help decrease reliance on fossil fuels, lower energy consumption, and promote sustainable, low-carbon urban living. Finally, a recommended roadmap is proposed to deploy the recommended measures.