Mobility in private transport and CO2 emission: Geospatial patterns and implications in land use planning for the Santiago Metropolitan Area, Chile

Abstract

Transportation ranks as the second sector with the highest contribution of carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions in the world for the year 2012. This phenomenon is exacerbated by physical expansion, urban fragmentation, and inequality in cities, with the Metropolitan Area of Santiago (AMS) serving as a notable example. Therefore, the objective of this study is to determine the geospatial patterns of CO2 emissions resulting from intercommunal mobility in private transportation within the AMS. To begin, the emissions of CO2 from mobility were quantified, resulting in a total of 2,838,199 tonnes per year. Subsequently, the geospatial emission patterns were identified using three indicators. These indicators substantiate the existence of a significant concentration of private mobility due to the unequal distribution of services in a specific sector of the AMS. This reinforces the geospatial pattern of population mobility towards the northeastern region of the city. The discussion and promotion of planning initiatives within the AMS emphasize the need for a comprehensive approach to land use planning. This approach aims to foster a more sustainable city, enhance the quality of life, and promote greater equality of opportunities for all residents.