Inter-provincial sectoral embodied CO₂ net-transfer analysis in China based on hypothetical extraction method and...

Area of Science:

• Environmental Science
• Economics
• Industrial Ecology

Background:

• China aims to peak carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions by 2030.
• Understanding CO2 linkage structures and transfer characteristics is crucial for effective emission reduction policies.
• Existing research often overlooks inter-provincial, sector-to-sector CO2 transfer analysis.

Purpose of the Study:

• To analyze inter-provincial sectoral linkages of embodied CO2 emissions in China.
• To identify key CO2 emitting sectors and understand transfer characteristics.
• To provide insights for optimizing China's CO2 mitigation strategies.

Main Methods:

• Employed the Hypothetical Extraction Method (HEM) to calculate embodied CO2.
• Utilized net transfer analysis to assess the impact of provincial trade.
• Applied complex network analysis to visualize clustering and identify transfer media sectors.

Main Results:

• Heavy industries in North China are key sectors with significant CO2 linkages.
• The electricity industry shows the largest net CO2 outflow, while construction has the largest net inflow.
• CO2 transfer networks exhibit spatial clustering, with geographically adjacent sectors showing stronger linkages.

Conclusions:

• Emission reduction policies require tailored, localized planning.
• Identifying key sectors and transfer pathways is vital for targeted mitigation efforts.
• This study offers new perspectives on sectoral CO2 linkage and transfer in China.