Production of fuel-based carbon footprint distribution map using spatial interpolation methods based on GIS

Abstract

The Earth is a complex system where living and non-living elements coexist in a delicate balance. Climate change is the primary factor responsible for the degradation of this system over time. The far-reaching consequences of climate change impact various aspects of our lives, including the physical environment, urban settings, human activities, economy, technology, agriculture, food production, access to clean water, and public health, all of which are widely acknowledged. Human-induced greenhouse gas emissions in these areas significantly trigger global climate change. Hence, addressing and mitigating the environmental damage from these emissions and the interconnected climate change phenomena is imperative. This situation is where the concept of "carbon footprint" gains prominence in assessing the extent of this damage. Carbon footprint serves as an essential measure in managing and curbing climate change. This study focused on controlling and mitigating carbon emissions, one of the primary greenhouse gasses responsible for climate change, by implementing spatial interpolation techniques based on Geographic Information Systems (GIS). The investigation targeted the Beşirli neighborhood in the Ortahisar district of Trabzon province. Data concerning electricity and natural gas usage were acquired from relevant institutions to perform carbon footprint calculations. Subsequently, carbon footprint calculations were conducted utilizing the acquired data within the specified region. The resulting outputs were systematically organized, integrated into the GIS environment, and linked to their respective geographical locations. Eventually, region-specific carbon footprint distribution maps were generated using selected spatial interpolation methods. These maps enabled a spatial observation of points exhibiting variability in terms of carbon emissions, thereby highlighting the carbon footprints evident in the region. The ultimate goal of this endeavor is to propose practical measures for minimizing the adverse environmental impacts by suggesting strategies to reduce and prevent carbon footprints associated with carbon emissions in the relevant areas.