Smart, Low-Carbon Lifestyles for Carbon Reduction: Opportunities and Challenges in Addis Ababa

Abstract

Urbanization of Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, has intensified carbon emissions, necessitating smart, low-carbon lifestyle adoption to meet climate goals. This study examines the potential of context-specific policy and technological interventions to promote scalable, equitable adoption, addressing barriers like cost, infrastructure, and cultural norms. Methods involved analyzing 2032 carbon reduction projections (e.g., 64,887,080.46 tons cumulative under Full Integration) and technology effectiveness (e.g., Waste Tech at 254.0197 tons/unit), visualized through a map and intervention. Findings reveal that subsidies, infrastructure expansion, cultural campaigns, waste-to-energy systems, and public transit enhancements can reduce emissions significantly, with spatial disparities favoring central sub-cities like Bole. The study’s R-squared of 0.8598 confirms robust model reliability. Conclusions highlight the feasibility of these interventions, though challenges like funding and rebound effects require mitigation. Recommendations include securing international funding, expanding infrastructure equitably, and monitoring adoption to ensure sustainability. This research provides a replicable model for African urban centers, contributing to global decarbonization efforts.