Global Emission Reduction Research Articles

Adaptation of Existent Methods for Setting Decarbonization Targets in the Brazilian Power Sector Companies

Power sector companies are crucial in global decarbonization, accounting for 32% of global greenhouse gas emissions. Despite frameworks like the Science-Based Targets initiative (SBTi), there is ongoing debate about the adequacy of current target-setting methods and emissions allocation. This paper focuses on Brazil’s diverse, renewable-heavy energy mix and complex regulatory environment. It highlights the challenges faced by vertically integrated and predominantly renewable energy companies in meeting SBTi goals, despite their commitment to climate action. The study finds that the current SBTi methodology fails to accurately reflect the efforts of these companies, often penalizing them for emissions beyond their control. An alternative methodology is proposed that excludes unmanageable emissions, aligning targets more closely with operational actions while maintaining transparency in reporting. A key finding is that this new methodology avoids distortions caused by external factors, ensuring emissions reductions are tied to company actions. For renewable power utilities, the methodology emphasizes high-emission categories within the value chain, such as asset construction and maintenance, promoting deeper engagement in decarbonization. A new tool and scenarios were developed, showing that proposed adjustments enhance target accuracy, support global emissions reduction goals, and provide a more transparent and equitable way for companies to report emissions, distinguishing between controllable and external factors.

The potential impact of environmental goods trade liberalization on trade and emissions

We combine econometric estimation with quantitative modeling to generate projections on the trade, GDP, and emissions effects of a potential trade liberalization agreement involving energy-related environmental goods (EREGs) and environmentally preferable products (EPPs). Trade liberalization can contribute to reduced emissions in two ways in our projections: (i) a reduction of import prices of goods promoting energy efficiency; and (ii) a reduction in the costs of intermediate and capital goods used in the production of electricity from renewable-energy sources. Four scenarios are evaluated, combining reductions in tariffs and non-tariff measures (NTMs) for EREGs and EPPs. Using simulations with the WTO Global Trade Model we find (i) an increase in exports of EREGs and EPPs both at the global level and in most regions; (ii) a modest increase in GDP in all regions because of falling tariffs, NTMs, and increased energy efficiency; and (iii) a modest reduction in global emissions of about 0.6%. The dominant channel is energy efficiency, whereas the costs of EREGs as intermediates in renewable energy production play a minor role, with or without end-use control.

Network structures and mitigation potential of trade linked global agricultural greenhouse gas emissions

Since agriculture is a major source of greenhouse gas emissions, accurately calculating these emissions is essential for simultaneously addressing climate change and food security challenges. This paper explores the critical role of trade in transferring agricultural greenhouse gas (AGHG) emissions throughout global agricultural supply chains. We develop a detailed AGHG emission inventory with comprehensive coverage across a wide range of countries and emission sources at first. Utilizing this inventory, the multi-regional input-output analysis is integrated with the complex network analysis to specifically reveal the characteristics of global AGHG flow networks. Finally, scenario analyses reflecting current trends and policy changes in global agriculture are conducted to investigate the emission reduction potential of different networks. The results show that the community division and characteristics of different AGHG networks vary, with more communities in the rice-CH4 and livestock-CH4, N2O networks, and fewer in the cropland-N2O network. Production-side technology improvements (reducing direct carbon emission intensities) and consumption-side livestock products substitution can contribute to the reduction of global AGHG emissions. At the same time, these impacts may propagate to other countries through AGHG networks. In contrast, localization substitution has minimal impact on AGHG emissions and may even result in slight negative effects. It is suggested that enhancing cooperation between countries from a network perspective, such as strengthening the transfer of advanced production technologies within communities, could help reconceptualize global agricultural decarbonization.

Crop-Specific Emission Projection Suggests Peaking of Agricultural N2O by the Middle Century.

Agriculture is the largest anthropogenic source of N2O emissions and plays a crucial role in global greenhouse gas mitigation. In an increasingly populated world with growing food demands, a precise and high-resolution spatial prediction of agricultural N2O emissions becomes essential in reducing global emissions. In this study, an integrated assessment model coupled with the land cover downscaling module is employed to predict crop-specific N2O emissions at a 0.05° resolution under various SSP-RCP scenarios from 2025 to 2100. Our findings show that global agricultural N2O emissions will peak around 2065, ranging from 5.2 to 6.6 Tg N a-1. Corn cultivation is the primary N2O contributor, while rice production will produce fewer emissions and peak before 2025. The emission hotspots are concentrated in western Europe, India, eastern China, and the west coast and east-central region of the USA. By 2100, the crop-specific N2O emissions in China are predicted to decrease below the levels observed in 2015, while the emissions in the USA and India may double in some socio-economic pathways. Our projection of N2O emission patterns is supportive of implementing targeted policies and strategies to achieve global emission reduction targets.

Advanced Diesel Engine Emission Control: Current Technologies and Future Alternatives

In an era increasingly focused on decarbonization and electrification, diesel engines, known for their high emissions, are being phased out in certain sectors, such as light and heavy-duty vehicles. However, the high thermal efficiency, durability, and superior power and torque output of diesel engines remain indispensable in various applications. As governments worldwide implement stringent emission standards, it is crucial for diesel engines to control their emissions to comply and stay relevant. This paper reviews recent advancements in diesel emission control, detailing the composition of diesel emissions and their detrimental effects on the environment and human health. It explores the operating principles and effectiveness of current emission control technologies, including water injection, post-injection, multiple injection, selective catalytic reduction (SCR), lean NOx traps (LNT), and turbocharging. Additionally, the paper examines the future of diesel engine development by evaluating the principles and potential of alternative fuel technologies such as hydrogen-diesel dual-fuel engines and dimethyl ether as a fuel. This comprehensive analysis aims to provide insights into sustainable diesel engine advancements that align with global emission reduction goals.

Development And Countermeasures of Carbon Finance in The Construction Industry Under the Background of The Carbon Peaking and Carbon Neutrality

Under the background of the carbon emission peaking and carbon neutrality and the trend of global emission reduction, how to deeply meet China’s “3060” carbon target is an important proposition for the development of various industries. As a typical high-carbon emitting traditional industry, China's construction industry has a particularly high demand for energy efficiency and carbon reduction. This paper comprehensively examines a number of papers to explore the issue of the impact of carbon finance on the development of decarbonisation in the construction industry from the current situation, distinguishing between the practical problems posed by each of the influencing factors. This paper delves into the challenges and countermeasures faced by the construction industry itself, the market, and the government in the development of carbon finance. It further explores the carbon finance development model throughout the entire lifecycle of the construction industry. In line with the inherent needs of low-carbon development in the construction industry while promoting the realisation of win-win long-term benefits in terms of both economic and environmental benefits.

Transforming CO2 into advanced 3D printed carbon nanocomposites

The conversion of CO2 emissions into valuable 3D printed carbon-based materials offers a transformative strategy for climate mitigation and resource utilization. Here, we 3D print carbon nanocomposites from CO2 using an integrated system that electrochemically converts CO2 into CO, followed by a thermocatalytic process that synthesizes carbon nanotubes (CNTs) which are then 3D printed into high-density carbon nanocomposites. A 200 cm2 electrolyzer stack is integrated with a thermochemical reactor for more than 45 h of operation, cumulatively synthesizing 37 grams of CNTs from CO2. A techno-economic analysis indicates a 90% cost reduction in CNT production on an industrial scale compared to current benchmarks, underscoring the commercial viability of the system. A 3D printing process is developed that achieves a high nanocomposite CNT concentration (38 wt%) while enhancing composite structural attributes via CNT alignment. With the rapidly rising demand for carbon nanocomposites, this CO2-to-nanocomposite process can make a substantial impact on global carbon emission reduction efforts.

Assessing the influence of the global emissions reduction targets on the design and performances of a ship’s propulsion system

Assessing the influence of the global emissions reduction targets on the design and performances of a ship’s propulsion system

How does climate policy uncertainty shape corporate investment behavior?

In the context of global carbon emission reduction, the uncertainty brought by climate policy would affect the corporate investment behavior. Our study explores the impact of climate policy uncertainty on corporate investment by using a sample of Chinese A-share listed companies in Shanghai and Shenzhen from 2008 to 2022. We find that when climate policy uncertainty increases, the corporate investment will decrease, with state-owned enterprises and high-carbon-emitting companies being more significantly affected. In addition, the mechanism analysis indicates that managerial climate attention and good ESG ratings can mitigate the negative impact of climate policy uncertainty on the corporate investment. Furthermore, major public emergency as the COVID-19 pandemic significantly amplifies the effects of climate policy uncertainty to corporate investment. Our results remain valid after a series of robustness tests, providing insights for corporate investment behavior in the face of climate policy uncertainty.

Dual fuel retrofit LNG for Indonesia’s Greenhouse Gas Strategy Case: Fulfilment of engine requirements on existing vessels in accordance with class requirements

Abstract The global maritime industry is transitioning towards sustainability to meet stringent environmental standards under IMO’s MARPOL Annex VI and the Paris Agreement. LNG emerges as a promising marine fuel, significantly reducing sulfur oxides (SOx), nitrogen oxides (NOx), and particulate emissions compared to traditional fuels. Indonesia, a major LNG exporter, aims to utilize LNG domestically under its Long-term Strategy for Low Carbon & Climate Resilience 2050. Adopting LNG in Indonesia’s maritime sector faces challenges, especially retrofitting existing diesel engines. Technical hurdles include ensuring engine compatibility, modifying fuel systems, and conducting comprehensive on-board testing due to limited infrastructure. Regulatory frameworks like Biro Klasifikasi Indonesia (BKI) Rules and the NOx Technical Code 2008 amendments provide the guidance for emissions compliance and testing. This paper discusses methodologies to overcome these challenges, emphasizing robust testing protocols and sea trials to validate engine performance and emissions under real-world conditions. Collaboration among stakeholders is essential to facilitate Indonesia’s transition to sustainable maritime practices. Future advancements in LNG technology and infrastructure will bolster Indonesia’s energy security and contribute to global emissions reduction targets in maritime transport.

Deconvoluting Soecs – One Cell at a Timeinsights from Single-Cell Analysis of Solid Oxide Electrolysis Cells at Topsoe

The escalating need for sustainable energy solutions has intensified research into Solid Oxide Electrolysis Cells (SOECs), a cornerstone technology in the green transition facilitating the conversion of electricity into green fuels. Topsoe has made significant strides in the field of green technologies, aiming to revolutionize the production of zero-emission fuels and chemicals, thereby contributing to global carbon emission reduction efforts.Topsoe's commitment to leading the carbon emission reduction technologies by 2024 is demonstrated through the development of its advanced SOEC technology. This technology is central to future Power-to-X plants, providing a highly efficient electrolysis solution that complements downstream processes. The upcoming SOEC manufacturing facility in Denmark, anticipated to commence operations in 2025, epitomizes this commitment. The facility is poised to produce electrolysis cells, stacks and modules, aiming for an annual production capacity of 500 MW, with scalability prospects. Topsoe's comprehensive expertise from electrolyzers to various downstream processes enables the transformation of renewable resources into zero-emission products such as green hydrogen, green ammonia, e-Methanol, and eFuels, marking a significant step towards a sustainable future1.The core of the work presented here entails the in-depth analysis facilitated by single-cell studies, both within Topsoe as well in close co-operation with different research institutions. Historical and ongoing research into single-cell testing, dating back several decades, has provided substantial insights into optimizing cell setup and operational parameters. These studies allow for a detailed understanding of individual cell resistance contributions, crucial for deconvoluting the impact of raw materials and manufacturing steps on the full cell performance and durability. The methodological approach includes a spectrum of techniques from in-situ characterization, such as Electrochemical Impedance Spectroscopy (EIS) and current-voltage (IV) curves, to pre- and post-mortem analyses using Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), Transmission Electron microscopy (TEM), Raman spectroscopy, and Energy Dispersive X-ray Spectroscopy (EDS) etc.Such detailed single-cell level studies are pivotal in addressing the mechanical and electrochemical performance requirements of SOECs, aiming to map them to stack and system performance. Furthermore, the studies delve into the challenges of scaling up these technologies, emphasizing the importance of stress tests and impurity evaluations to enhance system lifetime and efficiency. 1.www.topsoe.com/hubfs/Investor%20Images/Annual%20Reports/Annual%20report%202023/Topsoe_AR_2023_FINAL.pdf?hsLang=en

Effects of asymmetric policies to achieve emissions reduction on energy trade: A North American perspective

The implementation of asymmetric emission reduction policies can not only increase the cost of reducing emissions but also reduce the effectiveness of climate policies themselves, leading to policy inefficiencies such as carbon leakage. This paper investigates the impact of asymmetric emission reduction policies on the cost-effectiveness and efficiency of climate strategies in North America. Using a model inter-comparison approach, which combines two bottom-up global models and one top-down global model, this study assesses the effects of such policies on fuel substitution, global fossil fuel trade, and emissions in North America and globally. It is the first work where a multi-model approach is used for exploring how different energy systems react to asymmetric carbon policies. This provides critical insights into regional policy design within a global emissions framework. Quantitatively, the study reveals that asymmetric carbon pricing can lead to more than 60% global emissions reduction in certain models, but can also drive trade distortions, where U.S. exemptions result in emissions rising by more than 10% compared to reference scenarios. Qualitatively, significant fuel substitution patterns across Canada, Mexico, and the U.S. demonstrate increased coal consumption when carbon prices are unevenly applied. While no global emission increase was observed, asymmetric policies result in inefficiencies between local policy costs and emissions reduction outcomes, such as rising fossil fuel trade in non-abating regions. The findings suggest that harmonising carbon policies across regions would reduce inefficiencies and minimise carbon leakage.

Pathways to Carbon Neutrality in Civil Engineering

Abstract. With the development of the global economy and trade exchanges worldwide, urban infrastructure and industrial development have become part of the competition among countries. However, the construction industry and the production of chemical materials emit a large amount of carbon dioxide, leading to the continuous deterioration of the environment, so it is necessary to effectively reduce emissions. As a synonym for global emission reduction, carbon neutrality plays an important role in different industries, especially in civil engineering. In this paper, we start with building materials and green construction to explore the realization of carbon neutrality at the source and center of carbon emission in civil engineering. Firstly, we introduce the low-carbon production technologies of cement and steel, including calcium recycling and membrane separation technology in the cement industry, high-temperature combustion technology and carbon capture technology in steel industry. Then, we take renewable concrete as an example to discuss the emission reduction path of green building materials. Finally, it outlines how to carry out green construction, introduces assembly carbon reduction technology and energy integration system, and demonstrates the possibility of this green construction program in the case of "T&A House".

Optimal Strategies for E-Commerce Platform Supply Chain: Carbon Emission Reduction and Financing

In the context of global carbon emission reduction (CER) targets and slowing economic growth, it is imperative for suppliers to make informed choices regarding CER and financing strategies. However, limited research has explored the impact of financing strategies on CER. This paper develops a supply chain model that includes a supplier, a manufacturer, an E-commerce platform (E-C platform), and consumers with a preference for low-carbon products. The supplier sets the wholesale price, while the manufacturer controls both the production quantity and the unit amount of CER. We examine whether the manufacturer will invest in CER with sufficient capital or under various financing scenarios, namely (1) traditional production with sufficient capital (Scenario ST); (2) CER implementation with sufficient capital (Scenario SG); (3) CER implementation with E-C platform financing (Scenario EG); (4) CER implementation with bank financing (Scenario BG). Through comparative analysis, the analysis reveals that, regardless of the financing method chosen, the supplier’s profit and the manufacturer’s production quantity increase when the manufacturer invests in CER technology innovation compared to the traditional scenario. Furthermore, in terms of the manufacturer’s profit, if the service cost of bank financing exceeds a certain threshold, the manufacturer should either seek financing from the E-C platform or abandon the CER investment. Additionally, with respect to CER outcomes, Scenario BG outperforms Scenario EG. These findings provide a theoretical foundation and decision-making support for supply chain participants when addressing carbon reduction and financing strategy decisions.

The repercussions of enacting the IMO 2020 regulation for mitigating ship emissions in Malaysian waters

ABSTRACT The IMO 2020 regulations, introduced by the International Maritime Organization (IMO), came into effect on January 1, 2020, with the primary goal of reducing sulphur oxide emissions from ships by capping the allowable sulphur content in marine fuels at 0.50%. This measure aims to minimize the harmful environmental and health impacts of sulphur emissions, which contribute to air pollution and acid rain. However, the implementation of these regulations has posed considerable challenges for Malaysia’s maritime sector, particularly due to increased operational costs and difficulties in complying with the stringent requirements. This study critically analyses the challenges associated with the enforcement of IMO 2020 regulations in Malaysia, focusing on regulatory compliance. By conducting a comprehensive review of existing literature and integrating insights from key stakeholders and regulatory authorities, this research evaluates the current state of implementation. The findings reveal that the enforcement of IMO 2020 in Malaysia has been suboptimal, largely due to gaps in regulatory execution and industry preparedness. For Malaysia to fully align with international standards and contribute to the preservation of a sustainable maritime ecosystem, concerted efforts are essential to enhance enforcement mechanisms and ensure compliance with global emission reduction targets.

Artificial Intelligence in Climate Change Mitigation: A Review of Predictive Modeling and Data-Driven Solutions for Reducing Greenhouse Gas Emissions

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is increasingly recognized as a powerful tool for addressing the challenges of climate change. Its ability to process vast amounts of data and generate advanced predictive models positions AI as a key player in efforts to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and develop sustainable solutions. This review delves into the multifaceted role of AI in climate change mitigation, highlighting its potential in several critical areas. Firstly, AI is revolutionizing predictive climate modeling by providing more accurate forecasts and simulations, enabling better-informed policy and decision-making. Secondly, it is optimizing energy systems through smart grid management, demand forecasting, and the integration of renewable energy sources, thereby enhancing energy efficiency and reducing reliance on fossil fuels. Furthermore, AI is advancing carbon capture and storage technologies by improving the identification of optimal sites and enhancing process efficiency. In environmental monitoring, AI-driven solutions are enabling real-time detection and analysis of environmental data, contributing to more effective conservation efforts. This review also presents case studies and data that demonstrate the tangible impact of AI applications in driving progress towards global emission reduction targets. However, the adoption of AI in this domain is not without challenges. Issues such as data privacy, algorithmic transparency, and the ethical implications of AI deployment need to be carefully addressed. The paper concludes by outlining future research directions and emphasizing the need for interdisciplinary collaboration to fully harness the potential of AI in combating climate change.

HOW DOES THE DIGITAL ECONOMY AFFECT ENERGY EFFICIENCY?

As a new way of promoting high-quality economic development, whether the digital economy can enhance energy use efficiency by improving resource allocation is of great practical significance to global energy conservation and emission reduction efforts. This research employs principal component analysis and slacks-based measure data envelopment analysis in a case study of 30 provinces in China between 2014 and 2020 to evaluate the digital economy and energy efficiency. The analysis explores how the digital economy impacts energy efficiency, considering direct impacts, mediating effects, and their nonlinear relationship. The findings indicate a declining trend in China’s energy efficiency before it starts to moderate. The digital economy can boost energy efficiency by encouraging industry upgrades and reducing labor mismatches. The threshold regression model reveals that when the capital mismatch level exceeds 0.8871, the digital economy adds considerably to energy efficiency. The study’s findings confirm the linear and nonlinear energy efficiency impact trajectories of the digital economy, offering useful references for sustainable development policymaking.

Explaining the changes in the green technology innovation efficiency of construction enterprises

Based on the objective of global carbon emission reduction, the green technology innovation efficiencies of construction enterprises (GTIE–CE) have attracted attention in various countries and regions worldwide. However, researchers have not yet assessed GTIE–CE from the perspectives of asymmetric innovation theory, resource orchestration theory and eco-innovation theory. To reveal the changes in GTIE–CE, an index system is constructed to measure this efficiency based on resource orchestration theory and eco-innovation theory. In addition, based on the asymmetric innovation theory, this study uses the spatial variance function and PVAR model to reveal the evolution mechanism of GTIE–CE with respect to market, government and technology dimensions. The main conclusions are as follows. (1) Regional heterogeneity is present in GTIE–CE in China, and the appearance of high efficiency spreads from the Yangtze River Delta and Pearl River Delta to the surrounding areas. (2) The market dimension positively affects the green technology innovation efficiency of construction enterprises, but this effect is delayed. (3) The government dimension significantly promotes the improvement in GTIE–CE, but this effect is delayed. This study provides an integrated theoretical perspective that reveals the mechanism of GTIE–CE, helps to broaden the research in the field of GTIE–CE, in addition to insights from China to further promote the green transformation of these enterprises.

Exploring the influence of green growth and energy sources on “carbon-dioxide emissions”: implications for climate change mitigation

Climate change is a global concern driven by greenhouse gas emissions. Bangladesh, being densely populated and a significant carbon emitter, must urgently reduce its “carbon-dioxide emissions”. The primary objectives of this research are to meticulously examine the impact of green growth, non-renewable energy, renewable energy, and technological innovations on carbon dioxide emissions in Bangladesh from 1990 to 2020, with the goal of informing policies for effective and sustainable climate change mitigation in Bangladesh. The analysis using advanced econometric methods, including autoregressive distributed lag, fully modified ordinary least squares, and canonical cointegration regression, reveals that green growth and technological innovations have adverse long-term but positive short-term effects on carbon emissions in Bangladesh. Additionally, it is noteworthy that both non-renewable and renewable energy sources significantly contribute to long-term and short-term carbon emissions. The study confirms the Environmental Kuznets Curve, showing a “∩” shaped relationship between green development and carbon emissions. Policymakers should prioritize green growth, incentivize technological innovation, promote sustainable economic practices, and implement comprehensive energy transition strategies. The insights from this study inform policy formulation to address the complex relationships between green growth, energy sources, and carbon-dioxide emissions for sustainable climate change mitigation in Bangladesh. Bangladesh’s efforts contribute to global emission reduction and foster a resilient future.

Predicting hygroscopic growth of organosulfur aerosol particles using COSMOtherm

Abstract. Organosulfur (OS) compounds are important sulfur species in atmospheric aerosol particles, due to the reduction of global inorganic sulfur emissions. Understanding the physicochemical properties, such as hygroscopicity, of OS compounds is important for predicting future aerosol–cloud–climate interactions. However, their hygroscopicity is not yet well understood due to the scarcity of authentic standards. In this work, we investigated a group of OS compounds with short carbon chains (C1–C5) and oxygen-containing functional groups in the form of sodium, potassium, or ammonium salts and their mixtures with ammonium sulfate. The hygroscopic growth factors (HGFs) of these OS compounds have been experimentally studied. Here, the HGFs were calculated from mass fraction of water that was computed using the conductor-like screening model for real solvents (COSMO-RS). A good agreement was found between the model-estimated and experimental HGFs for the studied OS compounds. This quantum-chemistry-based approach for HGF estimation will open up the possibility of investigating the hygroscopicity of other OS compounds present in the atmosphere.