- Urban sprawl: Urban sprawl is a type of development that occurs when a city expands rapidly, often into previously rural areas. This type of development can lead to increased greenhouse gas emissions because it requires more land and infrastructure, such as roads and parking lots. Urban sprawl can also make it more difficult for people to walk or bike, which can lead to increased car use and emissions.

- Mixed-use development: Mixed-use development is a type of development that includes a variety of uses, such as residential, commercial, and retail, in the same area. This type of development can help to reduce greenhouse gas emissions because it can reduce the need for people to travel long distances for different activities. Mixed-use development can also make it more likely that people will walk or bike, which can further reduce emissions.

- Transit-oriented development: Transit-oriented development is a type of development that is centered around public transportation hubs, such as train stations or bus stops. This type of development can help to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by making it easier for people to use public transportation instead of cars. Transit-oriented development can also help to reduce traffic congestion and air pollution.

In addition to these direct effects, zoning can also affect greenhouse gas emissions indirectly. For example, zoning can affect the availability of affordable housing, which can in turn affect people's transportation choices. If affordable housing is not available in close proximity to jobs or public transportation, people may be more likely to live in car-dependent suburbs, which can lead to increased emissions.

Zoning is a powerful tool that can be used to shape the built environment and influence greenhouse gas emissions. By carefully considering the potential impacts of zoning decisions, communities can help to reduce emissions and mitigate climate change.

Here are some specific examples of how zoning can affect greenhouse gas emissions:

- A study by the Urban Land Institute found that mixed-use development can reduce vehicle miles traveled by up to 20%. This is because mixed-use development makes it easier for people to walk or bike to their destinations instead of driving.

- A study by the Brookings Institution found that transit-oriented development can reduce greenhouse gas emissions by up to 40%. This is because transit-oriented development makes it easier for people to use public transportation instead of cars.

- A study by the University of California, Berkeley found that zoning for affordable housing near public transportation can reduce vehicle miles traveled by up to 15%. This is because affordable housing near public transportation makes it possible for people to live closer to their jobs or other activities, reducing the need to drive.

These are just a few examples of how zoning can affect greenhouse gas emissions. By carefully considering the potential impacts of zoning decisions, communities can help to reduce emissions and mitigate climate change.