Evolving Experiences
Going Electric: Opportunities and Challenges in Aviation
Paper Presentation in a Themed Session Kelly George, Kelli Pearson
Overshadowing aviation’s many social and economic benefits, the industry’s 2% contribution to global greenhouse gas emissions hastens climate change (Air Transportation Action Group, n.d.). Electrification of air and ground operations is a promising solution to reduce the aviation industry’s carbon footprint, meet United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, and reach established targets for net-zero emissions before 2050. Developmental electric aircraft may enter the market as early as 2024, and some electric ground operations already exist; however, many technological, economic, operational, and social barriers impede broad application (International Civil Aviation Organization, 2022). The research team utilized a mixed methodology by analyzing relevant and current quantitative and qualitative data to assess aviation’s overall readiness for the approaching electric revolution, ultimately revealing the industry is not prepared for widespread implementation of the novel technology. Further, the research team employed a correlation matrix to identify Germany as the nation most likely to experience near-term, localized success with electric aviation based on applicable socioeconomic factors. Research findings highlight the necessary support structure and process upgrades required to achieve full electrification, identify an incremental way forward, and suggest organization development techniques to maximize progress.
Advancing Hydrogen Mobility in Qatar: Life Cycle Cost Analysis for Incentive Optimization View Digital Media
Paper Presentation in a Themed Session Carlos Mendez
The present study conducts a life cycle cost (LCC) comparison of gasoline, electric, and hydrogen fuel cell vehicles (HFCVs) within a Qatar context. Furthermore, policy instruments are analyzed and optimized to close the gap between HFCVs and other technologies. Initial findings reveal an 8% LCC difference between HFCVs and battery electric vehicles (BEVs), while a 17% gap exists between the latter and internal combustion engine vehicles (ICEVs). Nonetheless, after 25 years, HFCVs’ LCC will be the lowest due to technological advancements and reduced hydrogen production costs. Upon introducing policy measures like environmental taxes, purchase price incentives, and hydrogen fuel subsidies, it is observed that said measures can HFCVs bridge the gap between HFCVs and other technologies. Specifically, a combination of an 80% fuel subsidy and an 18.8% purchase incentive is required to obtain parity between HFCVs and ICEVs, while a 9% purchase incentive is sufficient for HFCV-BEV parity. Finally, it is observed that the deployment of policy instruments diminishes with time, becoming unnecessary after 24 years.
Advancing Urban Climate Neutrality: Insights from the EU Mission for 100 Climate-Neutral and Smart Cities by 2030
Paper Presentation in a Themed Session Claudia Ribeiro Pereira Nunes
This research project investigates the European Union's Mission, "100 Climate-Neutral and Smart Cities by 2030," focusing on Climate City Contracts (CCCs) as innovative governance tools to achieve urban climate neutrality. By analyzing the design, implementation, and impact of CCCs, the project aims to assess their role in fostering cross-sectoral collaboration, securing funding, and driving sustainable urban transformations. It also explores integrating green and digital innovations across mobility, energy systems, and nature-based solutions. Employing case studies, stakeholder interviews, and comparative analyses, the research evaluates climate neutrality's social, economic, and environmental co-benefits, such as reduced pollution, enhanced livability, and improved health outcomes. The study is based on developing scalable policy recommendations and toolkits to enable non-participating cities to effectively design and implement climate-neutral strategies. Through scenario modeling and digital twin simulations, the project identifies replicable solutions to accelerate the transition to climate-neutral towns across Europe. Ultimately, the research contributes to the European Green Deal's objectives, advancing urban resilience and sustainability while fostering collaboration and innovation to address the global challenge of climate change.
