Evaluating the Contribution of Urban Pollution to Climate Change and the Effectiveness of Mitigation Strategies in Developing Countries

Abstract

In developing countries urbanization and its associated energy consumption and transport growth are leading to increased environmental pollution in an ever growing urban population, and causing elevated concentration of greenhouse gases in the air. This article reviews the contribution to climate changes from urban pollution, and analyzes critically the efficiency of mitigation strategies in developing countries. Using secondary research (from recent peer reviewed literature) and evidence from the IPCC this study covers most significant urban pollution sources, climate and environmental impacts and mitigation actions. Results suggest that these different transport-related, energy, waste and urban development aspects are important contributors to urban emissions and urban climate pressures. Emissions can be reduced while maintaining a healthy and environmentally friendly, and compact city development through sustainable transport, renewable energy, energy efficiency, and waste management. But lack of funding, lack of infrastructure, and governance and implementation obstacles decrease the effectiveness of mitigation. The article underscores the importance of having packages of climate policies and measures for air quality, coupled with better institutions and investment time-scale.