Evolution of Household Carbon Emission Research Revealed by Machine Learning

Strategic Insights -

Research conducted by the University of Tokyo's Graduate School of Engineering has analyzed 4647 journal papers to study the evolution of household carbon emission research. The study found a significant increase in publications after 2015, with 7 distinct research clusters emerging, focusing on various topics such as food systems, supply-chain emissions, and renewable energy. Regional disparities were also observed, with the Global South focusing on cooking facilities and household energy use, while Europe emphasizes policy-oriented mitigation. This study has provided actionable directions to promote sustainable consumption practices and support global climate goals.

Key Takeaways:

  • The study analyzed 4647 journal papers to identify evolving research themes and regional disparities in household carbon emissions research.
  • A marked increase in publications was found after 2015, with 7 distinct research clusters emerging.
  • Research clusters focused on topics such as food systems, supply-chain emissions, and renewable energy.
  • Regional disparities were observed, with the Global South focusing on cooking facilities and household energy use, while Europe emphasizes policy-oriented mitigation.
  • North America focuses on transportation emissions and residential energy-efficiency modeling, while Asian countries examine urban-rural disparities and household inequality.
  • Current knowledge gaps identified include the need for cross-regional comparisons and supply chain integration.
  • The study highlights the importance of sustainable consumption practices in supporting global climate goals.
  • The research was supported by Grants-in-Aid for Scientific Research (KAKENHI).

Statistics:

  • 4647 journal papers analyzed in the study.
  • 7 distinct research clusters identified.
  • 2015 marked a significant increase in publications.
  • 115: Volume number of the Environmental Impact Assessment Review where the research was published.
  • 1723: Page number of the Global Warming Focus where the news report was published.

Sources:

  • Tracing the Evolution of Household Carbon Emission Research By Machine Learning. Environmental Impact Assessment Review, 2025;115.
  • Yin Long, Liqiao Huang, Sebastian Montagna, Zhiheng Chen, Kimitaka Asatani, Ichiro Sakata, Yoshikuni Yoshida, Xinyao Ding, Yosuke Shigetomi, and Tiantao Zhao. "Tracing the Evolution of Household Carbon Emission Research By Machine Learning." Environmental Impact Assessment Review, 2025;115.
  • Elsevier Science Inc. Ste 800, 230 Park Ave, New York, NY 10169, USA. (Elsevier - www.elsevier.com; Environmental Impact Assessment Review - www.journals.elsevier.com/environmental-impact-assessment-review/)