Journal of Geographical Studies of Mountainous Areas

Journal of Geographical Studies of Mountainous Areas

Explanation of factors affecting carbon emissions in the neighborhoods of Tabriz metropolis

Document Type : Original Article

Authors
Department Geography and Urban Planning, Ta.C., Islamic Azad University, Tabriz, Iran.
10.22034/gsma.2025.2053296.1063
Abstract
1. Introduction
Urbanization and rapid population growth have significantly altered the spatial structure of cities, leading to substantial environmental challenges, particularly in terms of carbon emissions. The increasing concentration of human activities, industrial development, and transportation networks has exacerbated the emission of greenhouse gases, particularly carbon dioxide (CO₂), which is a major contributor to climate change. In this context, large cities, especially metropolises in developing countries, are experiencing severe environmental degradation due to unbalanced urban expansion, inefficient land use planning, and increasing reliance on fossil fuels.
Tabriz, as one of Iran's major metropolitan areas, has undergone rapid and often unplanned urban development. This has led to a significant increase in the city's carbon footprint, with dense urban cores, industrial zones, and high-traffic corridors contributing to the highest levels of emissions. Previous studies suggest that urban form, spatial structure, and land use configurations are critical factors influencing carbon emissions. However, a comprehensive spatial analysis of these relationships, particularly within the context of Tabriz, is lacking.
This study aims to analyze the spatial distribution of carbon emissions in Tabriz at the neighborhood level. By employing geospatial analytical techniques, it identifies the key determinants of carbon emissions and examines how urban spatial structure influences emission patterns. The research provides insights into how land use types, urban density, road networks, and green spaces interact to shape the environmental footprint of the city. Understanding these relationships is essential for designing effective urban policies that promote low-carbon development and mitigate the adverse effects of climate change.

2. Methodology
The research adopts an applied approach and employs a descriptive-analytical method. Data collection involves satellite imagery, census data, and urban planning documents. Geospatial analysis techniques, including spatial autocorrelation (Moran’s I) and geographically weighted regression (GWR), were applied to identify spatial clusters of carbon emissions and determine the influence of variables such as building density, population density, road network density, land use types, and traffic patterns.

3. Results
Findings indicate that carbon emissions in Tabriz exhibit a clustered spatial pattern, with significant correlations to factors such as industrial land use, building density, and road network density. High-emission zones are concentrated in industrial and densely populated areas, while the presence of green spaces effectively mitigates carbon emissions. The GWR model confirms that the spatial impact of these factors varies across the city, with industrial areas and high-traffic zones being the most significant contributors.

4. Discussion
The results highlight the uneven distribution of carbon emissions and the role of urban form in shaping environmental sustainability. Compact urban development and efficient land use planning can contribute to carbon reduction. Additionally, integrating green infrastructure and promoting sustainable transportation are key strategies for mitigating emissions.

5. Conclusion
This study underscores the necessity of spatially informed urban policies to curb carbon emissions in Tabriz. By prioritizing sustainable urban planning and adopting data-driven approaches, policymakers can foster low-carbon city development. The findings offer valuable insights for decision-makers aiming to balance urban growth with environmental sustainability.

Author Contributions
In the preparation and writing of this article, all authors (first, second, and third) have contributed equally and jointly. All stages of the research, from study design and data collection to analysis of results and final writing of the article, are the result of collaboration and collective agreement of all authors.

Data Availability Statement
Data available on request from the authors.

Acknowledgements
We are very grateful to everyone who assisted us in conducting this research.

Ethical Considerations
All authors affirm that this research was conducted in accordance with ethical standards, with no data fabrication, falsification, or plagiarism.

Funding
This research did not receive any specific grant from funding agencies in the public, commercial, or not-for-profit sectors.

Conflict of Interest
The authors declare no conflict of interest.
Keywords

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