Professorship for Open Space and Ecological Urban Design

Strengthening Local Climate Action

In order to achieve the climate protection targets, ambitious measures for reducing greenhouse gas emissions are needed. As a large proportion of these emissions caused in urban areas, cities and municipalities play a crucial role in implementing such measures. 

Rieke Hansen
Prof. Dr. Rieke Hansen

Ongoing Research Projects and Studies

Community Climate Action with Laser-Based CO2 Monitoring (KliLaMon)

Our joint project with Darmstadt University of Applied Sciences focuses on monitoring greenhouse gas emissions in municipalities. To ensure the effectiveness of implemented climate protection measures and to adjust local climate action plans if necessary, it is essential to continuously monitor emission reductions. The current monitoring approach is based on accounting for greenhouse gas emissions and relies heavily on the availability of comprehensive data. However, such data is often insufficient to make precise statements about emission trends, especially in the transportation sector. We are working on the development of an innovative sensor network for the local measurement of atmospheric CO₂ levels, with the goal of providing municipalities with new monitoring tools to better manage local climate protection. On the technical side, we are developing a precise yet cost-effective CO₂ sensor suitable for use in a network for local CO₂ monitoring. We are also exploring practical applications of the sensor network and engaging in discussions with municipal representatives and climate protection experts to determine the requirements the laser-based monitoring system must meet.

 

The KliLaMon project approach as an illustration © Marie-Pascale Gafinen