COMPARATIVE STUDY OF THE MAIN SOURCES OF CO2 EMISSIONS IN CHINA: SECTOR REVIEW

Abstract

Climate change poses severe threats to ecosystems, economic activities, and human health, primarily due to increased greenhouse gas concentrations, especially carbon dioxide (CO2). China, being one of the largest contributors to global CO2 emissions, faces the significant challenge of peaking its CO2 emissions before 2030 and achieving carbon neutrality by 2060. In 2022, China accounted for 31.1% of global CO2 emissions from combustible fuels, totaling 10,613.17 Mt CO2. This study aims to analyze the main sources of CO2 emissions in China and identify key sectors contributing to these emissions. The research employs both qualitative and quantitative methods, using secondary data from the International Energy Agency (IEA) and the Chinese National Bureau of Statistics, and applying the 2006 IPCC Guidelines for National Greenhouse Gas Inventories. The results reveal that China’s CO2 emissions from fuel combustion increased significantly from 2000 to 2022, with coal combustion being the largest source, accounting for 79% of total emissions. The electricity and heat production sector is the largest contributor, followed by the industrial and transportation sectors. Per capita CO2 emissions also showed a significant increase, reaching 7.51 tCO2 per capita in 2022. China’s efforts to control and reduce CO2 emissions through measures such as Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS) technology, improving the efficiency of coal-fired power plants, and promoting reforestation and sustainable agricultural practices are crucial for addressing the challenges posed by climate change. The integration of renewable energy sources and the transition to cleaner technologies will be vital for mitigating future emissions and fostering a sustainable future.