Study on the Optimization of Urban Traffic and Spatial Structure in the Environment of Low-Carbon Eco-Cities

Introduction

In the face of escalating carbon emissions and the urgent global imperative to achieve carbon peaking, cities worldwide are confronted with the dual challenges of resource scarcity and environmental degradation. The traditional urban growth model, characterized by sprawling development, is proving inadequate in meeting contemporary demands for sustainable development amid climate change concerns. Consequently, there is a pressing need for cities with high-carbon footprints to reevaluate and optimize their urban development strategies. The concept of low-carbon ecology and sustainable urban development has emerged as a pivotal framework in addressing these challenges. It represents a collective global effort to combat energy crises, mitigate climate change impacts, and safeguard ecological environments. Central to this paradigm shift is the optimization of urban spatial structures and transportation systems, crucial components that significantly influence carbon emissions and urban sustainability (Ding & Luo, 2024).

With the increasing carbon dioxide (CO₂) emissions, the current earth environment is facing the dilemma of carbon peaking. Carbon emissions are closely related to the process of urban upgrading and optimization, and the rational use of urban land and the optimization of transportation systems are related to the development process of cities. At present, cities in the world with high-carbon emissions are facing the dual pressures of urban resource shortage and ecological environment deterioration. The urban growth model of extension growth has struggled to meet the development needs under the current new situation. Therefore, optimizing and upgrading the urban development strategy are important options for cities with large carbon emissions. The concept of low-carbon ecology and sustainable development is the common goal of all countries in the world in the 21st century. It is a new development orientation to solve the current energy crisis and cope with global climate change and ecological environment degradation. In addition, the public transport mode has no longer become the mainstream, and the number of personal motor vehicles has increased, which further aggravates the pressure on urban traffic space. In this context, building urban transport space systems in the environment of low-carbon ecological cities has become an important way to achieve the development of low-carbon ecological cities (Mavlutova et al., 2023).

This article focuses on City C, which is undergoing transformative initiatives toward becoming a low-carbon ecological city. By analyzing City C’s urban planning dynamics, traffic characteristics, and carbon emission patterns, this study aims to propose strategic interventions and guidelines. These recommendations are designed to optimize urban spatial structures, enhance public transport systems, and foster sustainable behaviors among residents (Ivănescu, 2023). Through these efforts, City C endeavors to align with national goals of carbon peaking and establish a resilient model of urban development that balances economic growth with environmental stewardship. By exploring the intersections of urban planning, transportation optimization, and low-carbon ecological strategies, this article contributes to the broader discourse on sustainable urbanization. It underscores the importance of integrated approaches in shaping urban environments that are not only economically vibrant but also environmentally sustainable, thereby paving the way for a greener and more resilient future (Yang & Su, 2024).

The primary motivation for this study is the necessity to address the environmental sustainability of City C. As the most populous city in its province, with over 10 million residents, City C’s current trajectory poses serious risks to both local and global environmental health. The research aims to identify practical and effective strategies for reducing carbon emissions, improving the urban spatial structure, and promoting the use of clean energy within the city. By focusing on optimizing the traffic system and spatial layout, the study seeks to contribute to the broader goal of making City C a model of sustainable urban development. Additionally, the study is motivated by the potential economic and social benefits of transitioning to a low-carbon ecological city. Reducing carbon emissions not only aligns with national environmental goals but also presents opportunities for economic revitalization through the development of new energy industries. This transformation could enhance the quality of life for City C’s residents by creating a healthier environment and more efficient urban infrastructure.