Embodied carbon emissions generated by international trade of China's light industry sector based on global supply chains perspective

Abstract

Accurate measurement of the embodied carbon emissions (ECE) generated by international trade is the basis for formulating fair and objective global carbon emission control strategies. This paper proposed an improved multi-regional input-output model and applied it to analyze production and consumption activities related to China's light industry sector based on its position within the global supply chain. It was found that manufacturing of light industry general equipment was the most important contributor to increased ECE, and 13 of China's 16 light industries for which data were available were a net carbon sink generated by international trade. Further, it was also revealed that China received a net transfer of carbon emissions from 12 countries, such as Indonesia, South Korea and Japan. China, as an exporter of carbon emissions, was also responsible for increasing the ECE generated by the international trade of China's light industry sector in 27 countries. Such findings provide an empirical basis for revised international trade strategies and policies to improve energy conservation and reduce carbon emissions.