Spatial planning factors that influence CO2 emissions: A systematic literature review

Spatial planning can function as a switchboard for mitigation, adaptation, and low-carbon development objectives. However, its role in tackling climate change remains ambiguous as there exist considerable differences in the outcomes of limited studies. A vast diversity in spatial planning factors, along with the indirectness and complexity in the influencing mechanism, can be possible reasons behind this uncertainty. In order to clarify the effect of the spatial planning factors and analyze their mechanisms, we systematically reviewed the literature on this topic from the year 2005 to 2020. Based on the articles reviewed, we identified seven major factors that affect CO2 emissions from different spatial planning levels. Additionally, we decompose the interrelationships among the causal factors and propose models of the direct and indirect effects of each factor on the CO2 emissions. Further, we summarized the mode of influence of each factor in different CO2 emission sectors, clarified the dissimilar results between studies, and analyzed the key reasons that led to the ambiguity to have a robust understanding. We also propose specific planning suggestions to control CO2 emissions, outline a future direction for the overall multi-factor composite research and put forward approaches to optimize the research method.

Automated summary

Spatial planning plays a crucial role in addressing climate change but its impact on CO2 emissions remains uncertain due to the diversity of factors and complex influencing mechanisms. Research from 2005 to 2020 identified seven major factors affecting CO2 emissions at different spatial planning levels, proposing models for direct and indirect effects. The study provides planning suggestions, analyzes dissimilar results in studies, and highlights key reasons for the ambiguity, paving the way for future research optimization.