Assessing Household Carbon Footprints and Climate Change Vulnerability Across Settlement Types in Maharashtra, India

Abstract

This study examines the relationship between household carbon emissions and climate change vulnerability across different settlement types in Maharashtra, India. A stratified household survey covering 1000 households across 123 villages and cities was conducted between August 2022 and March 2023. Household carbon footprints were estimated using activity-based emission factors and converted to carbon dioxide equivalents (CO₂e). The results reveal clear regional disparities in emissions and vulnerability. Metropolitan households recorded the highest emissions, mainly from electricity (42%) and transportation (37%), while urban households showed major contributions from transport (40%) and electricity (30%). In contrast, rural and tribal households generated lower overall emissions but experienced significantly higher economic losses due to climate-related events such as floods, droughts, and erratic rainfall. Biomass consumption accounted for 37% of emissions in rural areas and 57% in tribal households. The findings highlight an inverse relationship between carbon emissions and climate vulnerability, where communities contributing the least to greenhouse gas emissions face the greatest economic risks. The study provides empirical evidence to support region-specific climate mitigation and adaptation policies aimed at promoting climate justice and sustainable development in Maharashtra.