context: The National Development and Reform Commission, Ministry of Ecology and Environment and seven other central agencies issued a work plan for improving the carbon emission statistics and accounting system on 24 October 2024. The plan targets building a national greenhouse gas emissions factor database by 2025. An initial version is now up and running, hoping to improve accuracy and transparency around the country's carbon footprint.
Greenhouse gas emissions factors are crucial parameters for calculating the country's carbon emissions, stated a Ministry of Ecology and Environment Department of Climate Change spokesperson in response to reporter questions on the establishment of a factor database.
The new database will provide essential data support for all sectors in
- carrying out carbon emissions accounting
- facilitating the work of different entities in calculating carbon emissions
- reducing the cost of carbon emissions accounting across society
- improving the accuracy and timeliness of carbon emissions accounting
- enhancing the PRC's capacity to respond to climate change
Construction adhered to the principle of 'urgent need first', prioritising the release of factors most urgently needed. The database provides national emissions factors, with some broken down by region, to assist entities unable to measure their own emissions.
Factors are primarily industry-specific and align with national guidelines for emissions accounting and reporting. The database includes direct emissions factors for
- fuel combustion
- coal production
- use of carbonates
- cement clinker production
- use of energy as raw materials
- wastewater and solid waste treatment
- indirect emissions factors for net electricity purchases
These factors cover greenhouse gases such as carbon dioxide, methane, nitrous oxide and fluorinated gases. Factors are classified by 'emissions source' and 'industry type'. Some of the data comes from local factors obtained through surveys and measurements, while some are sourced from international default emissions factors.
To ensure it accurately reflects the PRC's actual emissions situation, the database will be updated on an annual basis. Industry associations, universities, research institutes, enterprises and individuals will also be encouraged to participate in updating the database.