Revealing Urban Carbon Dioxide (CO₂) Emission Characteristics and Influencing Mechanisms from the Perspective of Commuting

Commuting to and from work is one of the most important and regular routines using urban transport, being a major source for an increase in transport-related carbon dioxide (CO₂) emissions. In this study, we explore the characteristics of CO₂ emissions from commuter travel in Beijing from different perspectives. A bottom-up approach from a macro perspective is used to analyze recent changing trends of carbon emissions due to commuter travel modes in Beijing, and to identify the main sources of carbon emission increases that affect transportation. To identify CO₂ emission characteristics and influencing mechanisms in Beijing, the proportion of commuting modes, commuting distance, and commuting-related CO₂ emissions by Ring Roads was analyzed. The commuting-related CO₂ emission model, based on Tobit models from the microscopic perspective, was constructed to explore the main factors affecting CO₂ emissions of individuals/households. Results show that CO₂ emissions due to commuting in Beijing in recent years has presented an increasing trend. In 2014, the amount of CO₂ emissions from commuters had already reached the level of 553.68 × 10⁴ t, with CO₂ emissions generated by car trips accounting for 75–80% of emissions. Average individual/household commuting-related CO₂ emissions on the Ring Road inside the main urban areas of Beijing shows a gradual increasing trend, with the growth trends between the 3rd–5th Ring Road being the largest. Household locations separated by Ring Roads and the occupation type of residents are important factors affecting CO₂ emissions. Commuters with access to a car, those having a higher income, and those located in the outer regions of the main urban areas produce more CO₂ emissions. To reduce the increasing trend of CO₂ emissions in Beijing, it is important that the government accelerates the development of public transport, industry, and residential facilities along the outskirts of the city, along the Ring Road, and along the radix road. View Full-Text