Liu, H.-Y.; Skandalos, N.; Braslina, L.; Kapsalis, V.; Karamanis, D. Integrating Solar Energy and Nature-Based Solutions for Climate-Neutral Urban Environments. Solar2023, 3, 382-415.
Liu, H.-Y.; Skandalos, N.; Braslina, L.; Kapsalis, V.; Karamanis, D. Integrating Solar Energy and Nature-Based Solutions for Climate-Neutral Urban Environments. Solar 2023, 3, 382-415.
Liu, H.-Y.; Skandalos, N.; Braslina, L.; Kapsalis, V.; Karamanis, D. Integrating Solar Energy and Nature-Based Solutions for Climate-Neutral Urban Environments. Solar2023, 3, 382-415.
Liu, H.-Y.; Skandalos, N.; Braslina, L.; Kapsalis, V.; Karamanis, D. Integrating Solar Energy and Nature-Based Solutions for Climate-Neutral Urban Environments. Solar 2023, 3, 382-415.
Abstract
The need to address climate change and establish sustainable urban environments has driven increased efforts in Europe to develop climate-neutral cities. This study highlights the importance of integrating solar energy technologies and nature-based solutions as key strategies to achieve climate neutrality. By examining current practices, emerging trends, and case examples, it explores the benefits, challenges, and prospects associated with the integration of solar energy and nature-based solutions in urban contexts. The study presents a pioneering approach to assess the urban heat and climate change mitigation benefits of combining building-integrated photovoltaics and nature-based solutions specifically within the European context. The results emphasize the synergistic relationship between nature-based components and solar conversion technology, identifying effective combinations for different climatic zones. In warmer regions of Southern Europe, strategies like rooftop photovoltaics on cool roofs, photovoltaics shadings, green walls, and urban trees have demonstrated effectiveness. Conversely, mid- and high-latitude European cities have seen positive impacts through the integration of rooftop photovoltaics and photovoltaics facades with green roofs and green spaces. As solar cell conversion efficiency improves, the environmental impact of photovoltaics is expected to decrease, facilitating their integration into urban environments. The study emphasizes the importance of incorporating water bodies, cool pavements, spaces with high sky-view factors, and effective planning in urban design to maximize resilience benefits. It also highlights the significance of prioritizing mitigation actions in low-income regions and engaging citizens in the development of social photovoltaics positive energy houses, resilient neighbourhoods, and green spaces. By adopting these recommendations, European cities can lead the way in creating climate-neutral urban environments that prioritize clean energy, nature-based solutions, and the overall well-being of residents. The findings underscore the need for a multidisciplinary approach that combines technological innovation, urban planning strategies, and policy frameworks to effectively achieve climate neutrality in European cities.
Keywords
Built environment; Climate adaptation and mitigation; Carbon footprint; Eco-design; Nature-based solutions; Resilient living spaces; Solar energy technologies; Sustainable urban developments; Urban heat island; Urban planning
Subject
Environmental and Earth Sciences, Sustainable Science and Technology
Copyright:
This is an open access article distributed under the Creative Commons Attribution License which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.
