Finding a Scientific Method to Reduce Carbon Dioxide Emissions from Urban Areas in Iraq/ Baghdad as a Model

Abstract

This research represents the different analytical methodologies (Models) of carbon dioxide reduction and their various categorizations as well.  Then, it explains many of these models and makes a comparison among them.

The research explores the characteristics that affect energy consumption and carbon dioxide emissions associated in urban areas. Although, there is rich body of research has been conducted to determine these effects, most of them concentrated on transportation sector. The research illustrates the effects on energy consumption in the building sector. The research problem is arising because there is a difficulty in finding a scientific and applicable method to reduce carbon dioxide emissions from urban areas of Baghdad. In order to cover this gap, the research establishes its thesis which is: it could be found the suitable method of carbon mitigation for the city of Baghdad by collecting and analysing the available information and applications in this topic globally. So, the aim of this paper is to establish a suitable and scientific base to choose a method for the sake of carbon dioxide mitigation in Baghdad. The paper suggests the most suitable model for Baghdad to be used in carbon mitigation endeavour. What data available in this topic? Which of carbon modelling systems, tools and techniques are suit this city? What are the main drivers that could affect the choice? What is the goal of using any of these models? How could the obtained results be evaluated? All of these questions are considered to choose a model for Baghdad to meet its goal of carbon emissions reduction. After choosing MARKAL model, the relevant analytical features of MARKAL model are illustrated to be used. In addition, this research shows the main reasons of using this model which are; it is used in more than 50 countries, it is related with the differences in energy demands that caused by the different urban areas, it suggests the optimal carbon mitigation strategies in its results that are suit each area, and the richness of literature available. This research discusses three tasks: explain carbon mitigation models and conducting   a comparison among them, explain the use of MARKAL in other countries and the capability of using MARKAL in Baghdad as the right tool to use in carbon mitigation in the city.

Keywords:Carbon dioxide emissions, carbon and energy models, energy demands, Business-As-Usual, MARKAL model