Mapping A Greener, Less Carbon-Centric Future

In our ongoing efforts in combating climate change, every tree conserved, every ecosystem protected, every ounce of carbon  dioxide saved, counts. Professor Dominic Foo, a leading researcher at the University of Nottingham Malaysia (UNM), has been at the forefront of this global challenge.

In the past decade, his work has been focused on carbon-constrained energy planning, in identifying smarter ways to allocate energy resources to cut down carbon dioxide (CO₂) emissions effectively.

Professor Ir Dr Dominic Foo and Professor Raymond Tan

 

A New Lens on Carbon Reduction  

Alongside his research co-collaborator, Professor Raymond Tan from De La Salle University of the Philippines, Professor Foo has developed a breakthrough method – the Carbon Emission Pinch Analysis (CEPA) (or ‘carbon pinch’ in short). This high-level model helps governments and industries chart energy consumption with carbon reduction in mind, optimising the way energy is consumed, and ultimately contributing to minimising carbon footprint of entire sectors. 

“Our work is akin to providing a map that outlines exactly where they can focus their efforts, to have the biggest impact on reducing emissions. With CEPA, energy planners can identify the exact amount of low-carbon energy sources such as renewables, apart from the pinch points – which is the bottleneck of energy use and carbon emissions – and plan accordingly to achieve real decarbonisation.” 

Practical Tools and Process Design for Global Impact 

Snapshot of DECO2 

 

To provide greater accessibility to CEPA, Professor Foo and his research collaborator Dr Michael Short (University of Surrey, UK) co-developed an open-access software called DECO2, designed to assist and support energy planners worldwide. By translating complex data into actionable plans, decarbonisation efforts both locally and abroad, in locations such as Asia, Europe, and beyond, can better implement effective carbon reduction strategies.  

The potential applications of Professor Foo’s research are far-reaching, helping industries better analyse and visualise the energy-climate nexus within their existing operations. This allows for a greater alignment between developmental priorities and broader sustainability goals. 

More importantly, his work is part of UNM’s mission in advancing research that addresses critical climate challenges, positively impacting businesses, nation-building, as well as overall global sustainability prerogatives.  

Funded by organisations such as the British Council and ASEAN’s Research and Innovation for Development (RIDA), Professor Foo’s research is a shining example of the potential of cross-border collaboration, bringing together expertise from Malaysia, the Philippines, and the UK to create and amplify solutions that truly matter.