How global rooftop growth can fight climate change
How global rooftop growth can fight climate change: New research from Vienna University of Economics and Business Rooftops around the world could be key to fighting the climate crisis, new research from Vienna University of Economics and Business (WU) shows. Behnam Zakeri, Assistant Professor at WU’s Institute for Data, Energy, and Sustainability (IDEaS), and his fellow researchers utilised machine learning to estimate global rooftop area growth from 2020 to 2050. They found that by 2050, the global rooftop area is expected to increase to between 0.3 and 0.38 million square kilometres, representing a 20-52% increase from 2020, depending on different socio-economic developments. Africa is projected to see the highest growth, potentially doubling its rooftop area. With buildings accounting for 30% of global final energy consumption and 26% of global energy-related emissions, the model can aid in planning sustainable energy systems, with significant potential benefits in emerging economies. Rooftop solar power holds significant potential for emerging economies. With rapid rooftop area growth, these regions can leverage their manufacturing capabilities, high solar potential, cost-effective labour, and entrepreneurial spirit to achieve sustainable development and prosperity. This single harmonised global dataset can be used to inform policies for mitigating climate change, reducing biodiversity loss, and disaster risk management. Zakeri emphasises the breakthrough nature of this work, “this research exemplifies the power of artificial intelligence (AI) and emerging data sources in potentially resolving global sustainability challenges. This was not possible a few years ago or would have been very costly using alternative methods.” The study is also highly useful for urban planning and in the design of sustainable cities, furthering the ethos of the UN Sustainable Development Goals 7 (clean energy), 11 (sustainable cities), 13 (climate action), and 15 (life on land). Upcoming events in DevOps Join us for an in-depth presentation on the advanced cloud strategies at The National DevOps Conference and Awards, happening in London on October 22nd and 23rd, 2024. This premier event will feature expert insights into how AI is transforming DevOps practices and the broader tech industry. View the Full Agenda: The National DevOps Conference and Awards Agenda Exclusive Offer: Gain free entry to the conference by submitting your project to the DevOps Awards before the September 16th deadline. Don’t miss this opportunity to showcase your innovation and network with industry leaders. For exhibit at the conference, please contact calum.budge@31media.co.uk Foe media enquiries, please contact vaishnavi.nashte@31media.co.uk
