Research on Carbon Reduction Pathways: A Case Study of Kau Yi Chau Artificial Islands

Developing artificial islands is considered to be an effective solution for land scarcity and economic growth in coastal regions. However, the construction and operation of artificial islands could generate significant carbon emissions, posing challenges for low-carbon transitions. In this study, Kau Yi Chau Artificial Islands are analyzed to explore low-carbon strategies tailored to artificial island development. A carbon emission accounting framework based on urban operational processes is established, and five scenarios are developed using the LEAP model: the Baseline Scenario (BAS), Low-Demand Scenario (S1), Regular Carbon Reduction Scenario (S2), Enhanced Carbon Reduction Scenario (S3), and Deepened Carbon Reduction Scenario (S4). Energy demand and carbon emissions are systematically assessed across sectors such as buildings, transportation, solid waste, and vegetation-based carbon sinks. The results indicate that, compared to the BAS, carbon emissions in the S1, S2, S3, and S4 scenarios are reduced by 19.5%, 20.8%, 41.9%, and 54.6%, respectively. S4 is identified as the optimal development pathway for the artificial islands. The carbon reduction contributions of different sectors are analyzed, and optimization measures are proposed, providing valuable insights for low-carbon planning in artificial islands development.