Drivers and spatial patterns of carbon emissions from residential buildings: An empirical analysis of Fuzhou city (China)

Global economic development will continue to harm the natural environment. China is the largest contributor to global carbon emissions, with cities and the construction sector playing a major role. Understanding carbon emissions from buildings in cities can inform mitigation measures. This study conducted a comprehensive accounting of carbon emissions from lighting and appliance electricity consumption in residential buildings. The investigation covered Fuzhou city in Fujian Province of China in 2011−2021. ArcGIS generated and analyzed the spatial patterns of carbon emissions by districts. The STIRPAT model identified the leading carbon-emission drivers. The findings indicate: (1) fine-grained spatial distribution of carbon emissions demonstrates a marked concentration in the city center and contiguous districts, low emissions in surrounding districts, and a gradually increasing trajectory; and (2) GDP per capita, urbanization rate, and resident population are the principal drivers of carbon emissions, every 1% increase in GDP per capita raises carbon emissions by 0.66%. Relevant practical energy-saving and emission-reduction measures are distilled from the results. The findings provide a scientific basis for decision-makers to formulate emission-reduction targets and strategies for Fuzhou's residential buildings, a theoretical basis for promoting regional low-carbon development, and a reference for other regions with a similar developing economy.