Comparative analysis of certified emission reduction methodologies for methane emission reduction in China

Area of Science:

• Environmental Science
• Climate Change Mitigation
• Carbon Markets

Background:

• China is a major methane (CH4) emitter, necessitating emission reduction strategies for carbon neutrality.
• The China Certified Emission Reduction (CCER) market can support CH4 reduction efforts, but its impact needs investigation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To analyze the performance of CH4-related CCER projects.
• To investigate the accounting methodologies used in these projects.

Main Methods:

• Analysis of registered CH4 emission reduction projects (2012-2017).
• Evaluation of CCER project accounting methodologies and emission factors.

Main Results:

• 182 CH4 projects registered, reducing 19.8 MtCO2e annually across coal mining, energy, waste, and agriculture.
• Uneven application of methodologies; many remained unused.
• Frequent use of IPCC default values introduced uncertainty in China-specific accounting.

Conclusions:

• The CCER market has potential for CH4 reduction but faces challenges with methodology application and accounting accuracy.
• Recommendations are provided to enhance the effectiveness of CH4 emission reduction measures in China.