Digital technologies framework and future trends of carbon sequestration research in urban green spaces: a review

As a crucial component of carbon sequestration ecosystems in urban environments, urban green spaces (UGS) play a vital role in achieving carbon neutrality. However, due to the dual nature of UGS as both natural and social systems, the study of carbon sequestration and emissions in UGS involves complex factors and scales, necessitating the support of quantitative digital technologies (DT). Numerous studies have confirmed the beneficial role of DT in urban environmental recognition, evaluation and management, but the key technological frameworks to promote the study of carbon sequestration and emission in UGS have yet to be sorted out. Therefore, this study systematically analyzed the relevant literature in the Web of Science core database through bibliometrics and combined with the CiteSpace visualization tool, aiming to identify the research hotspots and frontiers of DT in the field from 2004 to 2024. The study provides a comprehensive overview of the application of seven distinct DT. Based on the results, a technological framework is proposed to advance research on carbon sequestration and emissions in UGS, while also outlining the limitations and future trends. This study contributes to the integration of DT applied to research and practice in the field of carbon neutrality in UGS, and provides theoretical references for increasing carbon sequestration, reducing emissions, and achieving climate goals in the digital era.