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4. Discussion
The analysis of domestic emission reductions and population density highlighted a clear
relationship between the variables. Generally, local authorities with higher population densities
achieved larger reductions in domestic emissions. The differences in domestic emissions reductions can
be explained to some extent by the variability of household sizes in low density areas. As highlighted
by Baiocchi and colleagues, settlements in denser authorities will often have similar size and structure
which contributes to similarly high levels of reductions [9].
As highlighted there are clearly potential benefits of an increase in an authority’s population
density as shown previously within literature [9,10]. However, this requires monitoring as there are
potential limitations to this, as some of the denser authorities which showed success in transport and
domestic emissions reductions were found in London. This can be attributed to the quantity and
integration of mitigation strategies. For example, a large majority of local authorities in London have
their own plans and policies to reduce emissions levels. Further, “The London Plan” has been
implemented, which outlines the strategy for all new domestic structures to be zero carbon from 2016
onwards [11]. Urban areas such as London are often required to report on climate change and produce
strategic reports and documents. As a result, large urban areas may be more likely to be more proactive
in reducing emissions levels in comparison to more rural authorities which have lower population
densities.
The grid intensity is a further factor explored regarding the reduction of emissions within the UK.
Table 2 and the domestic reductions rank plot show the UKs’ major regions attaining fairly similar
emissions reductions from 2005‐2016. All regions achieved a reduction in domestic emissions between
30‐36% except for Northern Ireland (‐22.7%). The similar reductions in domestic emission levels
suggests effective changes occurred in this sector across the entirety of the country. One significant
change that occurred across the UK from 2005‐2016 included the reduction in emissions intensity of the
grid. As presented within the graph showing domestic electricity emissions change, the grid intensity
reduced by approximately 14% from 2005‐2016. As the grid has become more efficient domestic
electricity emissions have consequently reduced.
As highlighted by Turk and other, the change from coal to other efficient fuel sources has resulted
in decarbonisation of the grid and significant overall emissions reductions [12]. There is clear
suggestion within literature of a reduced demand for coal‐fired generation and more of a focus towards
natural gas. Other key factors such as an increase in renewable energy as well as increased efficiency
in technology have also resulted in domestic emissions reductions. In order to further reduce domestic
emissions, coal should continue to be discouraged in its use for electricity production. Furthermore,
renewable energy schemes should continue to be promoted and utilised as an alternative source of
power. This can be achieved through increased funding being made available to local authorities as
well as promotion of schemes by the government through incentives such as feed in tariffs.
5. Conclusion
The UK has seen significant success in reducing GHG emissions from all sectors, including the
domestic sector where a 30% decline has been observed on average across all local authorities. While
previous studies have suggested that much decarbonisation could be attributed to out‐of‐boundary
activities (e.g., lower‐carbon electricity grid), local authorities have demonstrated substantial GHG
reductions within their borders. Population density and related factors seem to facilitate this, and
local authorities need to consider barriers to deeper reductions in the absence of sufficient density.
Conflicts of Interest: The authors declare no conflict of interest.
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