Study on the Spatial Differences, Dynamic Evolution and Convergence of Global Carbon Dioxide Emissions

Abstract

Reducing carbon emissions is essential for global sustainable development and has become a key concern around the world. In this study, we analyzed the spatial differences, dynamic evolution and convergence characteristics of global carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions in 92 countries from 1990 to 2021. The Dagum Gini coefficient, Kernel density analysis, Markov chain analysis and fixed effect model were used in this study. The results showed that, from the perspective of overall differences, the overall differences in global CO2 emissions during the study period showed a gradually increasing trend, and the inequality trend became more and more obvious. Based on the perspective of distribution dynamics, there is an obvious spatial disequilibrium of global CO2 emissions. In terms of the evolution law, its distribution dynamic law is relatively stable, the relative position of CO2 emissions is relatively stable, and different groups transfer to themselves with a greater probability. There is no obvious σ convergence in global CO2 emissions, but there is absolute β convergence. This study innovatively analyzed the differential characteristics of carbon dioxide emissions from a global perspective. The research results can provide a reference for clarifying countries’ carbon emission reduction responsibilities and promoting the green transformation of the global economy.