Carbon storage and emission potential in relation to population dynamics: the case of Niğde City, Turkey.

Abstract

This study aims to assess the carbon storage and emission potential related to population dynamics in the central neighbourhoods of Niğde. The research involves three main stages: calculating the normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI), estimating the amount of carbon stored and determining the total carbon footprint generated by the population. The study compares the carbon stored in the city's green areas with the carbon emissions the population produces, ultimately revealing the total carbon footprint released into the atmosphere. The findings indicate that the total amount of carbon stored within the study area is 788,993.19 tonnes, while the carbon footprint generated by the population amounts to 514,501.56 tonnes. This methodology allows for calculating carbon storage at the city level and highlights its relationship with neighbourhood-based population data. The study is an important foundation for future research to determine the carbon storage potential in urban areas.