Compilation of Effective Indigenous Indicators and Criteria in Zero-Carbon City Planning (Case study: Sari City)

The zero-carbon or low-carbon city is a new approach, which is rooted in sustainable urban planning. The main goal of this model is to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and carbon dioxide in urban areas. Sari, which is the capital of Mazandaran, contains natural resources and is located in an especial geographical location. As a consequence of recent years' development, the city has gone out of the way of harmonious development with nature. This study aims to compile indicators and criteria of the zero-carbon model for Sari city. Thus, the document study method is used as the tool to review the general condition of the city and basic indicators and criteria. Then, the depth interviews were conducted with the experts and the analysis has done by MXQDA to find out the indigenous criteria and indicators. After that, the indicators and criteria were scored and prioritized by experts. As a result, this study would place applied and descriptive-analytical in terms of purpose. The final result has shown that land use, management, and policymaking are the top three indicators, respectively. The means of sustainable transportation, reusable energy sources for neighborhoods, and green infrastructure are the main three indicators. In conclusion, the physical variables are not the only effective elements in planning a zero-carbon city, raising awareness and making suitable policies for encouraging citizens' participation are also efficient.