Climate change is undoubtedly one of the greatest global challenges facing humanity in the 21st century. Cities must bear a major responsibility for this problem (Ranalder et al., 2021), however, we must work to transform them from a problem into an opportunity. According to the World Bank, more than 50% of the world's population (United Nations, 2019) lives in cities, and with this number expected to surge further in the coming years, developing eco-friendly and sustainable cities is crucial. To ensure that our cities are equipped to meet the challenge of climate change, the engagement of all stakeholders, from big business and climate lenders to individual citizens, is needed. This is a challenge that must be met to ensure that no one is left behind.
One way to address this challenge is to identify, study and evaluate the multiple benefits of cities and energy recertification projects. Multiple benefits refer to the positive impact of a program or policy without any ranking bias, as opposed to the common welfare approach, which emphasizes a single primary goal (e.g., energy efficiency), although it acknowledges the existence of other "good" benefits. Although the concept of multiple interests was introduced by the IEA nearly a decade ago, in response to the recognition of how much potential investment in energy efficiency buildings has yet to be developed, it is still difficult to translate it into assessment practice, especially when the object of assessment is a complex (e.g., an entire community rather than a single building).
Proceeding from this premise, this paper explores the issue of multiple interest identification between similar projects and various stakeholder categories by profiting from two ongoing European urban innovation projects (i.e., ARV and ProLight) and Annex 83 of the Global Discussion Platform IEA-EBC Positive Energy Zone. First, through a review of the scientific literature and an analysis of recent smart city and positive energy zone projects, the expected multiple benefits are assumed. Then, discuss them with stakeholders in a hybrid mode (face-to-face and remote interaction) in an interactive workshop until a short list is eliminated. Finally, experts and project partners are invited to answer a questionnaire and pick out the most significant benefits for a particular case based on their professional or institutional role. The questionnaire used for this purpose was developed using the best-worst-worst scaling technique, which requires minimal effort from the respondent while producing reliable results.
The results of this paper provide a picture of what multiple benefits are for each specific stakeholder category, and what is more expected for certain types of urban projects, in an attempt to examine new ways to leverage urban energy transition investments by considering non-financial impacts. Compiled by Chen Jiaoyun
The multiple welfare approach has a particular utility in situations where changes at the city level are expected to alter existing social dynamics. This approach can be applied to a wide range of urban projects and policies, and its benefits can be seen in a range of areas, including environmental sustainability, social equity, and economic development. By focusing on identifying multiple benefits, we can prioritize those policies and programs that are most effective in promoting sustainability and equity, while also mitigating the risks associated with climate change.
Addressing the challenge of climate change requires a multifaceted approach that engages all stakeholders and provides opportunities for constructive dialogue and cooperation. By using a multi-stakeholder approach, we can create actionable and effective strategies that promote long-term sustainability and resilience while ensuring that the interests of all stakeholders are taken into account. As the ongoing effects of climate change become more apparent, there has never been a more important time to prioritize sustainability and action.
