The Carbon Zero City market analysis draws starts with authoritative sources like Bloomberg NEF (energy transition) and McKinsey . Carbon Zero industries span the industrial spectrum. Carbon Zero has the potential to be over $12 trillion worldwide in 2030.

GDP v Cost

THESE POOLS ARE THE BUILDING BLOCKS OF A CARBON ZERO ECONOMY

The chart above outlines the value pools identified by McKinsey in a carbon zero economy. These value pools serve as foundational building blocks for creating sustainable urban environments in the future.

The shift towards a carbon-zero economy represents a transformative economic opportunity, with potential revenues and benefits that dwarf those of some of the largest sub-national and national economies worldwide (sources: McKinsey & Company, World Resources Institute).

GDP v Cost

A Potential Carbon Zero Economy versus existing economies

The carbon-zero economy is expected to be eight times larger than NYC's current economy. Carbon Zero City aims to position NYC as a major hub for urban carbon zero activities, capturing a significant share of this expansive market.

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Transportation Solutions for Cities

Source of Atmospheric CO2: Transportation is a significant contributor to global greenhouse gas emissions, accounting for about 24% of global CO2 emissions. This includes emissions from various modes such as road, rail, air, and marine transportation. The sector's emissions are also expected to grow, posing a major challenge to reducing global greenhouse emissions in line with international climate targets like the Paris Agreement (sources: Our World in Data, World Resources Institute).

Operational Exigency: As sea levels rise and storms become more intense, cities need to have operational options that are resilient and adaptable, including transportation systems that can function effectively above ground.

Sub-Sectors
Automobiles
Public Transit
Bikes and Non-Motorized Transport
Ferries and Maritime Transport
Smart Traffic Management Systems

 

Tesla
Pioneers in electric vehicles (EVs) and renewable energy storage solutions, Tesla is reducing CO2 emissions and promoting energy independence from fossil fuels.
Uber
Invests in sustainable urban mobility with electric and autonomous vehicles, aiming to lower urban emissions and enhance efficient transportation.
BYD 
Specializes in electric buses and vehicles, significantly reducing urban transit emissions and offering robust alternatives.
Volvo 
Committed to producing only electric vehicles by 2030, Volvo is reducing emissions and designing vehicles to withstand new climate norms.
Arrival
Focuses on electric transport solutions like buses and vans designed for urban environments, contributing to CO2 reduction.
Rivian
Designs electric trucks and SUVs suited for both urban and off-road environments, supporting CO2 reduction. Other notable companies include Fernhay, EAV, and Civilized Cycles.
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Buildings are a Major Source of CO2 Emissions

Building innovation is crucial for addressing the climate crisis as buildings account for significant urban energy use and emissions. Achieving carbon neutrality involves energy-efficient designs, smart technologies, and integrating renewable energy sources. The global green building materials market was valued at $238 billion in 2019.

Building Technologies
Energy-Efficient Design
Smart Building Technologies
Renewable Energy Integration
Sustainable Materials
Energy Management Systems
Retrofit Solutions
Sustainable Design and Engineering
High Efficiency Equipment
Building Operations
Johnson Controls
Provides building automation and efficiency solutions to reduce energy consumption and improve building performance.
Siemens
Offers smart building technologies and infrastructure solutions, focusing on energy efficiency and sustainability.
Lennar Corporation
Engages in sustainable housing development, incorporating energy-efficient designs and materials.
Schneider Electric
Specializes in energy management and automation solutions aimed at enhancing sustainability in buildings and industrial processes.
Honeywell
Develops technologies for energy efficiency and sustainable building solutions, including smart thermostats and HVAC systems.
NextEra Energy
A leader in renewable energy generation, focusing on wind and solar power to reduce reliance on fossil fuels.
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Power is Critical for Buildings and Transportation, as well as for Crypto and AI.

The importance and potential of power innovation in cities to address climate change are paramount. As urban populations continue to grow, cities face increasing challenges related to energy consumption and carbon emissions. Power innovation, encompassing advancements in renewable energy sources such as solar, wind, and hydroelectric systems, offers a path toward reducing urban carbon footprints and promoting sustainability. These technologies not only help cities reduce their reliance on fossil fuels but also foster greater energy security and resilience against power outages and other disruptions caused by extreme weather events linked to climate change. 

Moreover, the integration of smart grid technologies and energy storage solutions can enhance the efficiency of urban energy systems, allowing for better demand management and distribution of renewable energy. By investing in power innovation, cities can lead in the transition to a low-carbon future, improve local air quality, and set a sustainable example for urban development worldwide. This shift is crucial not just for reducing greenhouse gas emissions, but also for creating green jobs and promoting economic growth within a sustainable framework.

Power Generation and Systems
Renewable Power Generation
Grid Modernization/Efficiency
Flexibility, Storage
Power Systems and Analytics
Decommissioning, Thermal Conversion
NextEra Energy
Engages in renewable energy generation, including wind and solar power, to reduce carbon emissions.
Enel Group
Focuses on renewable energy and smart grids to enhance the sustainability of the power sector.
GE Renewable Energy
Provides wind, solar, and hydro energy solutions to support the transition to renewable energy.
Vestas
Manufactures wind turbines and provides renewable energy solutions to support the transition to a low-carbon economy.
First Solar
Offers solar energy solutions, including the manufacturing of solar panels and development of solar power plants.
Orsted
Focuses on offshore wind energy development and providing renewable energy solutions.
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Water is an Increasingly Scarce Resource in Many Cities; in NYC Rainwater has to be Managed

NYC's water supply is currently robust, with storage capacity at 90.0%, surpassing the typical 87.1%. But cities like Las Vegas, Beijing, New Delhi, and Mexico City are grappling with significant water shortages.

Challenges such as rising sea levels and more frequent extreme weather events demand sustainable water management solutions in NYC. Integrating green infrastructure like bioswales and green roofs can mitigate stormwater runoff, curb urban heat, and enhance air quality. Emphasizing water innovation, NYC aims to bolster its resilience, securing a dependable water supply for its vibrant population and economy amid shifting environmental conditions.

Water Management Technologies
Advanced Treatment
Rainwater Harvesting
Water Recycling
Smart Water Systems
Desalination
Leak Detection
Xylem Inc.
Provides water technology and innovative solutions for water and wastewater management to enhance sustainability.
Veolia
Specializes in water management and recycling services to promote efficient water use and reduce environmental impact.
Pentair
Develops sustainable water treatment and management systems to improve water efficiency.
GE Water & Process Technologies
Offers water treatment solutions and services to optimize water use and improve efficiency.
Suez Water Technologies & Solutions
Provides sustainable water management solutions to address water scarcity and improve water quality.
Kurita Water Industries
Specializes in water treatment and environmental solutions to promote sustainable water use.
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Consumer Products and Sustainable Practices

Innovations in consumer products are crucial for urban sustainability, especially as cities like NYC face growing populations and increased demand. 

Sustainable consumer products are essential for reducing environmental impact. They minimize waste, conserve resources, and encourage eco-friendly habits. As global demand grows, these products help combat climate change and promote a healthier planet.

Sustainable Living Products
Energy-Efficient Appliances
Sustainable Materials
Zero-Waste Packaging
Refillable and Reusable Products
Smart Home Technology
Local and Sustainable Food Products
Sustainable Fashion
Patagonia
Utilizes recycled materials to lessen resource use.
Philips
Develops energy-efficient lighting to cut down on energy use.
Nest (Google)
Optimizes home energy efficiency with smart technology.
Lush
Emphasizes zero-waste packaging and sustainable ingredients.
Hydro Flask
Promotes sustainable hydration with refillable bottles.
Blueland
Innovates in household cleaning with minimal plastic waste.
Loop
Encourages a circular economy through reusable packaging.
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Urban Agricululture to Address Uncertainty, and Create Local Jobs

Urban agriculture, particularly vertical farming, could play a crucial role in enhancing food security and sustainability in densely populated urban areas. 

By growing crops in vertically stacked layers, often in controlled environments, vertical farming maximizes space use and can drastically reduce water usage and transportation costs. This method not only brings fresh produce closer to urban consumers, reducing the carbon footprint associated with food transport but also provides cities with a resilient food system less dependent on external food supply chains. 

Moreover, urban agriculture that is outside can help in greening urban areas, improving air quality, and increasing biodiversity, contributing positively to the urban microclimate. 

Urban Agriculture Technologies
Vertical Farming
Hydroponics
Aquaponics
Rooftop Gardens
Community Gardens
Indoor Farming
Bayer Crop Science
Develops sustainable agriculture and crop protection solutions to enhance food security and reduce environmental impact.
John Deere
Provides precision agriculture technology to improve farming efficiency and sustainability.
Syngenta
Focuses on sustainable farming practices and crop solutions to promote agricultural sustainability.
CNH Industrial
Offers agricultural equipment and solutions to improve farming efficiency and reduce environmental impact.
Corteva Agriscience
Specializes in agricultural innovations to promote sustainable farming and improve crop yields.
AGCO Corporation
Develops agricultural equipment and technologies to enhance farming productivity and sustainability.
BrightFarms
Uses hydroponic farming techniques to produce fresh, local produce with minimal environmental impact.
Gotham Greens
Operates rooftop greenhouses to provide locally grown produce, reducing food miles and promoting sustainability.
Beyond Meat
Develops plant-based food products to reduce the environmental impact of meat production and consumption.
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Fuels and the Transition Away from Fossil Fuels

The transition to cleaner fuels represents a pivotal shift in global energy practices, aimed at reducing environmental impact and mitigating climate change. This movement involves phasing out fossil fuels like coal, oil, and natural gas in favor of renewable sources such as solar, wind, and hydroelectric power. Innovations in technology have also made biofuels and hydrogen viable alternatives, offering cleaner combustion processes and fewer emissions. 

Additionally, the adoption of electric vehicles and the enhancement of battery storage capacities are crucial components of this transition. Governments and private sectors worldwide are increasingly investing in these technologies, driven by both environmental goals and the economic potential of new energy markets. This transition not only helps in cutting down carbon footprints but also in fostering sustainable development and energy security for the future.

Shell
Investing in renewable energy and carbon offset initiatives to reduce carbon emissions and promote sustainability.
BP
Transitioning to low-carbon energy sources and investing in renewable energy projects to reduce environmental impact.
ExxonMobil
Engages in research and development of carbon capture and storage technologies to mitigate carbon emissions.
Chevron
Investing in renewable energy and developing carbon capture and storage solutions to reduce carbon footprint.
TotalEnergies
Focuses on renewable energy projects and carbon offset initiatives to promote sustainability in the energy sector.
Eni
Committed to transitioning to renewable energy and developing carbon capture technologies to reduce carbon emissions.
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Hydrogen, a Zero Emission Solution

The hydrogen industry is pivotal in tackling climate change, poised to grow to $201.8 billion by 2025. It offers a zero-emission solution for transportation and industry, reducing reliance on fossil fuels. Hydrogen also stabilizes power grids by storing excess renewable energy, accelerating the shift to a low-carbon economy. With substantial investments and supportive policies, hydrogen is key to achieving global climate targets and fostering economic growth.

Plug Power
Develops hydrogen fuel cell solutions for transportation and industrial uses, promoting the adoption of clean hydrogen energy.
Ballard Power Systems
Specializes in hydrogen fuel cells for buses, trucks, and other heavy-duty vehicles, contributing to the reduction of carbon emissions in transportation.
Air Liquide
Engages in hydrogen production, storage, and distribution to support the growth of the hydrogen economy and promote clean energy solutions.
Linde
Provides hydrogen production and distribution solutions to support the transition to a hydrogen-based energy system.
ITM Power
Develops electrolyzers for hydrogen production using renewable energy sources, promoting the use of green hydrogen.
Nikola Corporation
Designs hydrogen fuel cell trucks and infrastructure to support the adoption of hydrogen-powered transportation.
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Waste and Sustainable Practices

Transitioning to zero-waste models through advanced recycling technologies, waste-to-energy plants, and sustainable materials management can significantly reduce urban emissions. Methane capture from organic waste for use as a renewable energy source is another effective strategy.

Waste Management Technologies
Advanced Recycling Technologies
Waste-to-Energy Plants
Sustainable Materials Management
Methane Capture
Composting
E-Waste Management
Enablers of Materials Reuse
Industrial and Mature Materials Processing
Materials Processing Innovation
Waste Management
Provides comprehensive waste management services and recycling solutions to promote sustainability and reduce landfill use.
Republic Services
Offers recycling and waste disposal solutions to minimize environmental impact and promote a circular economy.
Covanta
Specializes in waste-to-energy solutions, converting waste into renewable energy and reducing landfill use.
Suez
Provides waste management and recycling services to support the transition to a circular economy and reduce environmental impact.
Veolia
Offers comprehensive waste management solutions, including recycling and waste-to-energy services, to promote sustainability.
Biffa
Provides waste management and recycling services to reduce environmental impact and promote a circular economy.
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Industrials in a Carbon Zero Economy

Reducing emissions in the industrial sector through energy efficiency, cleaner production processes, and the adoption of renewable energy. Carbon capture, utilization, and storage (CCUS) technologies also play a critical role in mitigating industrial emissions. Sub-segments:

Industrial Sectors
Steel
Aluminum
Cement
Mining
Chemical
3M
Develops sustainable products and manufacturing processes to reduce environmental impact and promote sustainability.
Honeywell
Provides energy efficiency and smart building solutions to enhance industrial sustainability.
Schneider Electric
Specializes in energy management and automation solutions to improve industrial efficiency and sustainability.
General Electric
Engages in the development of cleaner production processes and renewable energy technologies to reduce industrial emissions.
ABB
Offers automation and electrification solutions to improve industrial energy efficiency and reduce emissions.
Siemens
Provides industrial automation and digitalization solutions to enhance efficiency and sustainability in the industrial sector.
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Carbon, the Sequestration of, and Use of as an Input

Carbon innovation is vital for cities like NYC to tackle climate change and aim for carbon neutrality. Urban centers, dense with people and heavy on industry and transport, are major CO2 emitters. Innovations like direct air capture (DAC) and carbon utilization technologies are transforming our ability to remove CO2 from the atmosphere, significantly lowering urban carbon footprints, enhancing air quality, and boosting public health. The market for carbon capture, utilization, and storage (CCUS) is booming, expected to hit $15 billion by 2027, fueled by regulatory demands, technological progress, and the pressing need to address climate effects. This rapid growth underscores the role of carbon innovation as a cornerstone in sustainable urban development and climate mitigation strategies.

Carbon Management Technologies
Direct Air Capture (DAC)
Carbon Utilization
Natural Carbon Sinks
CarbonCure Technologies
Reduces carbon emissions in concrete production by incorporating CO2 into the manufacturing process.
Climeworks
Specializes in direct air capture technology to remove CO2 from the atmosphere and contribute to carbon neutrality.
Schneider Electric
Provides energy management and sustainability services to enhance carbon efficiency and reduce emissions.
Carbon Clean Solutions
Develops carbon capture technologies to reduce industrial CO2 emissions and promote sustainability.
Global Thermostat
Specializes in direct air capture technologies to remove CO2 from the atmosphere and support climate change mitigation.
Carbon Engineering
Focuses on developing direct air capture and carbon utilization technologies to reduce atmospheric CO2 levels.
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