China's emissions of potent greenhouse gases surge over the past decade

Emissions of two highly potent greenhouse gases in China have surged by 78% over the last decade, dominating global output.

Ellen McNally reports for The Guardian.

In short:

Perfluorocarbons, used in manufacturing and aluminum smelting, trap heat more effectively than CO2 and persist for thousands of years.
A study from MIT found that by 2020, China accounted for 64-66% of global emissions for two specific perfluorocarbons.
These emissions primarily originate from industrial zones in western China, linked to the aluminum industry.

Why this matters:

Given China's pivotal role in global greenhouse gas emissions, its strategies for reducing these potent gases will be important. The rapid increase in emissions of these long-lasting greenhouse gases from China threatens global climate goals. These gases trap heat much more effectively than CO2, intensifying global warming and exacerbating climate change.

www.theguardian.com

China's emissions of potent greenhouse gases surge over the past decade

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